Microsoft asks CMA to reconsider its Activision Blizzard deal

Microsoft has asked the CMA to reconsider its deal to buy Activision Blizzard, The Verge reports. The deal was initially blocked by the CMA back in late April. After the block, the deal was then approved by the EU, and more recently the company scored a big win in its FTC case. The FTC then filed for appeal in that ruling.

At that time the company said it would be revisiting its proposed terms with the CMA in hopes the UK’s regulatory body would reverse the block. The CMA said it was willing to discuss changes to terms, though it might lead to a new investigation down the road.

While the investigation has yet to happen, Microsoft has now submitted a new change of circumstances document to the CMA to start these talks. Issued on July 25, the document highlights key points that Microsoft feels are worthy of an approval. Such as its new Call of Duty deal with Sony and the EU’s approval of the deal.

Microsoft is also asking the CMA to consider its cloud gaming deals. It’s still unclear if any of this will affect the CMA’s initial decision. But it’s a start.

The CMA could make a final order on the Microsoft Activision Blizzard deal by August 29

Things are looking better lately for Microsoft in its potential deal. But it still needs approval from the CMA for things to be finalized. Luckily its recent case win over the FTC has provided the company with an opportunity. As it now has more time to close the deal.

Microsoft and Activision have agreed to push the deal deadline out to October. Specifically October 18. A good few months from now and, Microsoft is hoping that will be enough time to ease the CMA’s cloud gaming concerns. According to the report, the CMA could make a final order by August 29. It also wants to hear from Microsoft’s rivals by August 4 so there’s a chance there could be more details on things later this week. Though Microsoft’s deal won’t be in the clear until at least a few weeks later.