Microsoft-Activision Blizzard merger temporarily blocked by US judge | Engadget

in response to news reports that the companies were closing the deal"imminently" and that they had set July 18th as the target deadline for the acquisition.

Judge Edward J. Davila has ruled that the merger can't take place until five days after the court has decided on whether or not to issue an injunction against it. To note, the court is scheduled to hear the FTC's request for an injunction on June 22nd and 23rd, so the earliest the companies can proceed with their plans is the end of this month — if the court doesn't ultimately side with the agency.

"With control of Activision's content, Microsoft would have the ability and increased incentive to withhold or degrade Activision’s content in ways that substantially lessen competition — including competition on product quality, price, and innovation." Microsoft and Activision Blizzard, however, seem to be unperturbed by the FTC's lawsuit. In a statement, Microsoft told us that the injunction request is"accelerating the legal process" that will help the merger move forward sooner.

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