It became known that Microsoft is considering withdrawing Activision from the UK market in order to bypass the CMA blocking and complete a deal for $ 69 billion, as reported by Bloomberg referring to their own sources.

According to the source, Microsoft President Brad Smith is scheduled to meet with UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt next week to express his disappointment with the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) decision to block the deal. A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that Smith will visit London, where he will make a presentation on “The potential of artificial intelligence and the need for its regulation.” In addition, he plans to hold private discussions, including discussions about the proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard, in search of constructive ways to resolve regulatory issues.

Hunt has been critical of the CMA’s decision and recently said at a business conference that competition watchers need to be aware of their broader responsibility. However, according to Bloomberggovernment ministers are also unhappy with Smith’s public criticism of the CMA, in particular his claim that the EU is superior as a place to do business over the UK.

Source: VGC