Thoughts Unboxed

  In an anticipated yet surprise win for Microsoft, EU Regulators have approved the proposed acquisition of Activision-Blizzard by Microsoft. However, it is not a completely free lunch for Microsoft. The regulators have imposed some conditions.  In a nutshell, the regulators found: Microsoft would have no incentive blocking Activision's games from Sony's PS Consoles In a scenario where Microsoft did withdraw Activision's games from PlayStation Console, it would not harm Sony in a significant way Regulators also put certain conditions for the merger to be approved: 10-year commitment for CoD to be on PlayStation Gamers in EU would get a free license for all current and future Activision's Games for the Cloud-Streaming Service of their choice provided they already own the license of those games. Cloud Streaming services would also be given free licenses to stream Activision's Games in EU countries...

  FTC Chair Lina Khan has reiterated her commitment to protecting the future by implementing measures that create obstacles in the present. In a surprising interview with CNBC, Khan briefly discussed the Microsoft-Activision acquisition. She stated:   This matter is currently under active proceedings, so there are limitations to what I can disclose. However, the FTC filed a separate lawsuit to block this deal in early December. The Complaint highlights various concerns the Commission has, particularly in the console market, as well as the expanding and evolving cloud and subscription markets.   The Complaint focuses on multiple markets, including those that are still experiencing rapid growth and development.   We have witnessed time and again how these emerging markets require enforcers to prioritize safeguarding competition and innovation, ensuring incumbents do not stifle competition and innovation.   Considering the FTC's decision to exclude Nintendo from wh...