​Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Buyout Faces One Last Obstacle

It feels like a lifetime ago that Microsoft announced its decision to purchase publishing giant Activision Blizzard for a succulent $70billion, but the finer details are still being hammered out.

Of course the reason the deal is so dragged out, is because of just how much is involved. In matters like this, it's usually the Department Of Justice which oversees the deal, but this time it's the stricter Federal Trade Commission (FTC) which have taken the reins. The Commission is in charge of overseeing that the deal doesn't lead to Microsoft monopolising the gaming market, which could be achieved by major titles such as Call Of Duty turning Xbox exclusive.

If you want to take a look at an alternate FPS to Activision Blizzard, check out Apex Legends in the video below.

However, we are entering the final furlong now and there's just a few ts left to cross. As spotted by WccfTech, the FTC has asked for additional materials from both parties in order to continue with the acquisition. Microsoft are offering $95 per company share, currently valued at $78. With the number of shares available this would lead to massive profits.

The main reason for this filing is that on 28 April there will be a meeting with Activision Blizzard shareholders to take a vote on the Agreement And Plan Of Merger. There will need to be a majority of agreement to go with the plan, with a failure to vote counted as one against the merger. Despite being one of the world's largest video game publishers, Activision Blizzard's stock price tanked recently, so this deal is vital to many hoping to recoup costs.

Microsoft swooped in to purchase the company after the monumental fall in share prices. The publisher stock dropped dramatically following numerous allegations of sexual assault and harassment, including death threats made by CEO Bobby Kotick. These allegations have spawned various lawsuits against the company including for the wrongful death of one employee, who took her own life at a company retreat.

It's a lot of mess to mop up for CEO of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, but nothing can be started until the deal goes through.