U.S. regulators have blocked Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, using a restraining order to temporarily halt the deal.
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The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has been granted a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the proposed deal until the courts decide whether or not to grant the FTC a preliminary injunction.
“Until recently, Defendants indicated that they would not complete the proposed acquisition unless and until they received clearance from European regulators, including in proceedings before this Court in a private case challenging the proposed acquisition,” stated the FTC’s filing.
However, the FTC is now concerned that Microsoft and Activision Blizzard intend to close the deal despite the UK’s Competitions and Markets Authority effectively blocking the deal in this region.
“Press reports began circulating suggesting that Defendants were seriously contemplating closed the proposed acquisition despite the pending administrative litigation and the CMA orders,” said the FTC.
The FTC’s Order was filed on 12 June, which requested both a TRO and preliminary injunction. However, Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick reportedly approved of the FTC’s move.
