Microsoft's Bid to Buy Games Giant Faces Triple Anti-Trust Threat
Microsoft's bid to acquire the games giant, ZeniMax Media, is facing a triple anti-trust threat from the European Union, the United States, and Canada. The deal, which is worth $7.5 billion, was announced in September 2020 and is expected to close in the second half of 2021.
The European Union's competition watchdog, the European Commission, has launched an investigation into the deal to determine whether it would harm competition in the video game industry. The commission is concerned that the acquisition could give Microsoft an unfair advantage in the market, as ZeniMax owns several popular game studios, including Bethesda Softworks, id Software, and Arkane Studios.
The United States Department of Justice is also investigating the deal for potential anti-trust violations. The department is reportedly concerned that the acquisition could limit competition in the video game industry and harm consumers.
In addition, the Canadian Competition Bureau has also launched an investigation into the deal. The bureau is examining whether the acquisition would result in a substantial lessening or prevention of competition in the Canadian market.
Microsoft has stated that it believes the acquisition will benefit gamers and the industry as a whole. The company has also said that it will work with regulators to address any concerns they may have.
The acquisition of ZeniMax would give Microsoft access to several popular game franchises, including The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and Doom. It would also strengthen Microsoft's position in the video game industry, as the company has been investing heavily in its Xbox Game Pass subscription service.
It remains to be seen whether the acquisition will be approved by regulators in the European Union, the United States, and Canada. If the deal is blocked, it could have significant implications for Microsoft's future plans in the video game industry.
https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/microsofts-bid-to-buy-games-giant-faces-triple-anti-trust-threat
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