The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has halted Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, prompting Microsoft to prepare an appeal against the decision.
The company has made a significant addition to its team, which could potentially be the key to securing the deal.
It has been revealed that Microsoft recently brought on board Daniel Beard KC, a specialist in competition and regulatory affairs.
Beard’s appointment has attracted attention, as he has an impressive track record of overturning decisions made by major regulators in Europe.
New Hope for Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard Acquisition
Microsoft is set to submit its appeal to the CMA in the coming days, with Beard representing the company. His extensive experience in dealing with regulatory matters is expected to be invaluable to the case and could work in Microsoft’s favor.
Beard has previously collaborated with other tech giants, such as Intel and Apple. He assisted both companies in successfully appealing decisions handed down by European authorities, saving them from substantial fines. Microsoft is now hoping for a similar outcome in its favor.
CMA’s Concerns and Microsoft’s Response
It’s important to recall that the CMA blocked the acquisition due to concerns surrounding cloud gaming and the influence Microsoft would wield with the addition of Activision Blizzard’s extensive content portfolio. As expected, Microsoft criticized the decision and vehemently opposed the ruling.
Microsoft remains optimistic that the European Commission, which is set to announce its verdict later this month, will deliver a different outcome.
While there are no guarantees, Microsoft is hopeful that the CMA will reconsider its position following the appeal spearheaded by Beard and his legal team.
