What annoys me is that no doubt all the hardcore fans, or the sheep will blame Microsoft. Not Jim Ryan for losing them several hot games on their platform. I knew as I'm sure others did that this was the game Eyam was playing and the risk he was taking, others didn't though. But they know now.
@Kaloudz I have my fingers crossed the CMA will allow the merger without their complaint and as you say work on the concessions. And the CMA accept the concession, I think they will if they are working with MS on them. This is the best outcome for us in Blighty and for the case against the FTC.
Will be very interesting to see how tomorrow plays out. Especially now Sony have folded, and paid a price too seemingly.
On a side note I saw some of that case with Khan is it from the FTC, and one of the Senates pointed out how she had even let her own lawyer licence lapse! Khan seems to really not be fit for the job.
@Grumblevolcano Not sure about that after the news Sony has signed its deal. Personally I think they will close the deal, I’ve just seen others saying they may delay it. All eyes on tomorrow. Just hope we in the UK end up with the same perks from this merger, such as games on Game Pass, not sure about the cloud as I believe the concession put forward is for Microsoft to sell the cloud rights on Acti Bliz games in the UK?
Pfft like they had a choice, it was inevitable they would have to sign it, they obviously couldn’t though whilst fighting the merger. Don’t really care much though for Sony and crying Ryan, but they are paying for their delaying now. They should have thought of that.
@OM1993 All I see is the same as already reports, that they plan to close their investigation well before the August deadline. We shall see what happens tomorrow. It will put the UK market in an interesting position. But also I suspect nothing will change in relation to any games availability if the deal closes until the CMA make their verdict, if it’s only a couple of weeks away.
@Fiendish-Beaver Firstly as said that’s not how the CMA guidance reads, and the EU offered the idea for the concession to. Microsoft. Secondly that is complete conspiracy theory, nothing more nothing less, no evidence, also any conflicts of interest would have been declared and all parties given the opportunity to object, and it’s also utterly ridiculous to suggest anyone cannot leave one job to go to another, and then cross paths again with a previous employer and be anything other then impartial. The CMA had valid concerns, were not offered any working remedies from Microsoft, so blocked the deal.
Do not be surprised if Microsoft extends its deal with Activision to beyond the 18th, some who are more grounded in this topic are claiming MS are showing no signs or intentions of steam rolling the deal through before the CMA approval, also could possibly have something to with the text on its agreement that all regulatory parties must approve it. But I would think they could work around that text. We shall see as lots of conflicting evidence around whether the deal will close or not on Tuesday. Tomorrow will be a very interesting day.
@Fiendish-Beaver Whilst I would naturally agree on who makes the concessions, this tweet from Microsoft’s President would imply differently hence my comment:
Page 90 point 12.14 ‘Notice Of Possible Remedies’, it states that the CMA will publish a notice of possible remedies which will act as a formal starting point of discussion of remedies. Thus implying again the regulator can suggest concessions to be looked at, that’s how I’m reading it anyway. Also it does highlight how there are several opportunities in the process to give remedies or discuss them before the final verdict is given, so MS did have the opportunity to do so including once the preliminary report had been concluded. It as we know the CMA rejected the remedies MS offered as not resolving the concerns they had.
I cannot concur your assumption of your last paragraph, that the CMA approached Microsoft, only a joint request from the CMA, Microsoft and Activision was sent to the courts to request the appeal to be halted. The rest of your comment in the last paragraph is pure conspiracy theory, I don’t know why you keep on following this thought process. You really seem to believe the CMA are out to block this merger no matter what. Like many on here seem to have this out going urge to believe in conspiracy’s as opposed to fact foe some very odd reason? That toxic gamers mentality coming to light.
@Moonglow Haha someone calls out your BS conspiracy theories and call them damage controlling. Grow up. And you can confront me directly if you have accusations.
@mousieone How do you know those meetings were for concessions? You just said yourself ‘closed doors’ as in details were not released to the public, it’s all hypothetical here say.
@mousieone Wong, it is only the deal in the UK, not the rest of the world, concessions for the UK market only. And the facts are clear, it was announced this week that MS and the CMA had agreed to halt the appeals process for now to look into concessions. Leaving them with 4 days to approve including a weekend. Why are you ignoring this? MS had a year and a half to come up with a concession to work with the CMA, why didn't they? All I read was that the EU came up with one, which was pretty generous of them, and that wouldn't work in the UK market with our mechanisms. I didn't hear much of MS working on concessions, maybe they did but I didn't read that.
@theduckofdeath Most likely, but I would much rather they follow this process as then it’s done and dusted approved and all legal, and us folk in the UK will get the same benefits, apart from what ever could concessions are made. It Acti Blizzard games in Game Pass! That’s the real goal we want.
They won’t wait 6 weeks, I expect it’ll be approved next week or the week after, I don’t expect it to be done this weekend as not everyone will want to work over the weekend. The CMA FTC and EU regulators do lease with each other, but their primary objectives are to protect their own markets and consumers, so the CMA won’t really take into account what the FTC is doing as they lost the first case. I hope. Fingers crossed.
@theduckofdeath As I understand no, because it’s in the courts, everyone expects the injunction appeal to be denied today or over the weekend but I think if it’s in the court it’s a big risk to go above that? If there wasn’t an appeal going through it would be plain sailing for them to ignore the FTC I believe.
People think if it’s not done by the 18th ActiBlizz will walk away. It would need renegotiating and gong back to the share holders I’m guessing otherwise?
@Balta666 Thank you for that, but how does that give them an option to halt the appeals process and look into a new deal now? Could they not have done that a few weeks back when the appeals process was started? Did they need to wait for the CAT to make any ruling before a new deal was discussed?
@Fiendish-Beaver An awful lot of assumptions all round. All we can go on are the facts which are that MS and the CMA announced they agreed ‘this’ week to halt the appeals process to look into new concessions, and they have 4 days including a weekend to do it.
And yes you are being incredibly cynical if you truly be,I’ve the CMA and FTC are in cahoots to stall the deal? For what purpose? As I’ve said a hundred times, all THREE of the biggest regulators had concerns of a monopoly over cloud gaming. They didn’t state that for fun or to block the deal out of spite, well maybe the FTC did, no they said it because that was what they concluded from all the evidence given. So then processes had to be followed, EU came up with a concession for ‘their’ market and structure that MS accepted and improved on, the CMA has agreed to investigate a new deal with concessions for ‘their’ market and structure, and the FTC just seems to want to block the deal. People need to remember whilst they are regulators, they do have different laws and regulations and processes to follow in each country.
This is NO conspiracy in Europe, just what happens for a 70 billion dollar merger. There is no colluding. As for America it is different as they don’t seem to want to look into any concessions, I understand they have a political angle there with the head of the FTC. So I’m not sure what game is being played but I know that is the one regulator who will kill the deal if successful.
@OrfeasDourvas Remember, it was Microsoft not the CMA who chose to go down the appeal process path, NOT to see if they could renegotiate a concession. None of us are privy to all the laws and regulations around the processes, but it does seem to me that MS could have tried to negotiate a new deal at anytime after the original one was rejected if they are able to do so now. Considering the deadline MS should have done this weeks ago.
But I expect MS will close the deal providing the FTC appeal fails of course before the 18th, otherwise the deals dead. MS will work around the CMA, they can’t work around the FTC.
Totally understandable that they can’t do it in 4 days… but 6 weeks seems a bit much (as like ‘everyone’ else on here not knowing what’s involved in the process). Still they do state they fully intend to finish well before that.
@Fiendish-Beaver And the exact same stupid accusations were thrown at the CMA because a member of their team worked for Sony years ago. Same stupid dumb accusation being made. But that’s the gaming community I guess?
@Hutchilawd On a serious note the US stock market has been warned and prepared to devalue the ActiBlizz stock over the weekend, in readiness for the deal going through. Something like that anyway, but that was between yesterday and todays news.
@Hutchilawd Visions of Spencer gleefully skipping down the road to Acti Blizzard HQ with a giant Price Is Right style 70 billion cheque under his arm is much better 🤣😂
@Moonglow You are ignoring so much, firstly I am not damage controlling by pointing out why being a UK consumer is a good thing.
Secondly, the EU would have happily blocked this merger on the exact same grounds of a monopoly in the cloud space being created by it, they came up with the concession to this which MS accepted and even expanded on. So please don’t shine the EU as some night and FTC and CMA as dragons. All three of MS major markets had the same concerns. So it would be utterly ridiculous for me to claim the CMA was right, as all 3 of them had the same concerns. The CMA already stated they cannot work the concession the EU came up with due to their make up.
As for the CMA proving its relevance? It’s required by law, and is made up mostly of the same staff who did the same positions when we were in the EU. They don’t need to prove anything. You are just angry they blocked the deal, fine. But think about why Microsoft did not amend the deal before to appease the CMA? Did they run out of time or try their luck…. Also let’s not forget the regulators have had access to millions of documents, and hours of presentations from those against the deals, plus industry experts who they DO use. This will have been going on longer then 4 weeks!
The FTC did state it has concerns with cloud gaming in its court case, up yes it did seem to concentrate on COD for some reason.
I am not anti this merger, why would I be I just got 3 years of Game Pass. I do not like monopolies though, if it was one regulator I would be as upset, but all three have said the same thing. And this is Microsoft who are not shy of monopolies, so whilst you may think it’s bad for you personally, if they are allowed to do as they please as the deal they had without concessions their was a good chance it would end up behind band for everyone and the market later on.
But hey, MS and the CMA have agreed to look into amending the deal for the UK, good that’s what we want as then it can be passed and approved as the cloud was the only issue they had really, even if thru have to investigate it all again, but I can’t see it taking long as it’s the second time.
The FTC who knows, in Europe they can make concession, the FTC has a whole other system it seems and isn’t interested in those by the looks of it. You should be diverting your anger at them as they can block the entire deal for the world, the CMA can’t so unless you live in the UK they aren’t affecting you.
@Moonglow No, completely wrong. You are clueless if you really think these regulators do nothing and just 'investigate' to show they need to exist.
And I am happy to be a UK consumer thanks. I get tons of protection as such. I'm more than happy to have consumer laws and 12 month warranties, and the ability for legal action to be taken against companies who abuse the law and consumer rights, oh and I like the free government service I can turn to for consumer advice too.
Plus you have no idea what so ever what concessions will be made it how it affects the UK consumer. Total fallacy by you.
@Kaloudz Fingers crossed they amend the deal for the UK and the CMA investigates for a couple of weeks then approves it. As they will only need to investigate the amendment. Hopefully.
@HonestHick Well when you are a lawyer in a regulatory commission we will take what you say seriously lol. CMA has a point, as did the FTC and the EU. ALL had the same monopoly concerns, they have just resolved them in different ways. Hopefully they can find a way to move forward that suits both parties.
@Kaloudz Nope, they are defending their position whilst back tracking and taking no blame. Like a good true Brit lol. But if it’s their process to re-investigate that will delay the deal beyond this months deadline for the UK at least.
Whilst folks are happy to call the regulators stupid, lying, incompetent, making things up, having weak arguments. None of you are in their commissions, and the EU, FTC and CMA ALL had concerns over Microsoft creating a monopoly in Cloud Gaming! The EU came up with a concession to appease their concerns, the FTC has lost its case, and it looks like the CMA will possibly reach a concession they agree on soon too.
So I would be confident as THREE separate main regulators ALL had the same concerns, that they were pretty valid in those concerns and the evidence they have will be too.
@Microbius No he isn’t! What a ludicrous thing to think, he has increased PlayStations profits, successfully overseen the launch of a new console, and is growing the business. He’ll be staying in his position.
@Moby The CMA did not really have COD as its reason for blocking, also they had a valid point over monopoly concerns of cloud gaming, the EU commission themselves stated the exact same concerns, but believed that the concessions made by Microsoft would alleviate those concerns. The CMA isn’t equipped, apparently, to manage those same concessions the EU had implemented. So I await to see how they do equip themselves for a workaround to be implemented. You need to remember, without the concessions made both the EU and UK commissions had concerns over Microsoft creating a monopoly in cloud gaming. The FTC also believed this but decided to push the COD angle mainly,
So whilst people were quick to slag off these regulators as stupid, all three of the biggest markets for Xbox believed Microsoft could create a monopoly in cloud gaming, so concessions had to be made to ensure that doesn’t happen, in fact the EU came up with their idea and told Microsoft take it or leave it I think, MS took it and expanded it beyond the required remit.
@Moby I would say is it something to do with having two cases running at the same time? But didn't the EU open some investigation into Sony based in the evidence given?
@Kaloudz 🤣😂🤣🤣 I shall read and follow what the CMA do and how they do exactly as you said, as a fellow Brit I know they'll do just that! They'll word it as a win for them 🤣
@Kaloudz I personally think as I've said before that the CMA has valid concerns. But I also think MS can come up with a solution to appease the concerns they had. Fingers crossed that's what happens and is folks in Blighty can get the same treatment as everyone outside the CMA jurisdiction.
Still doesn’t really tell us what will happen in the UK? I seriously doubt like some claim, that Microsoft will simply dump and leave the UK market. But also no idea what will happen, if we will ever get ABK games on Game Pass in the UK. Still a long way to go yet as far as I’m concerned. But at least the deal will close now.
Literally any new PS5 will be buried in hype over Nintendo’s next console, which most expect to be launched next year. And whether Sony likes it or not, Nintendo IS a direct competitor to them.
That's really not an impressive number looking at the competition. But for Xbox it's alright. If they had console exclusives that number would be far higher, but as we know with their current CEO that'll never ever happen.
@Solidchief Several on here such as yourself are making a mistake. Sadly this weeks hearing was only about the FTC being given an extension to review the merger, the whole merger is far from over currently. So lots more news to come.
@Krzzystuff The CAT aren't annoyed with anyone? They are not allowed to be. Why do you lot read things that aren't there? All they will do is handle the appeal that's it, not stamp their feet and protest how annoyed they are with the CMA.
@slatyatpion Oh for sure the complete hypocrisy is shining very brightly here. And I suspect the judge and court will see that. I would not in any way claim MS is winning anything yet. I find how MS and Sony and the FTC are attempting to twist what Nintendo is to suit there arguments hilarious too, when they are all correct, it does it’s own thing, has endless exclusives, and never had COD on Switch but it’s massively successful. They just pick and choose snippets of those facts that fit their argument. Judge will see through that.
Basically the MS boss doesn’t like Sonys business model, but according to them streaming has not taken off as predicted, so you’ll end up with a console with zero exclusives but console and PC will be the way most people will want to play? Are they going to release all their games onto PlayStation then?
Really annoys me how MS whine and moan about Sony, yet refuse point blank to follow its business model despite the fact it’s proved hugely successful for both Nintendo and Sony and did so too for MS during the 360 era.
It’s like Microsoft shooting themselves in the foot, then spending billions and going through all this hassle just to fix it. Very strange business strategy.
They shouldn’t complain about being third then try to reinvent the wheel, they will never be anything more then third with this strategy.
@BRT15 Actually Jim Ryan has very high credibility in the industry, look at how much money he’s made for Sony and how he’s successfully launched another console for them. He is doing his job well for a moron everyone hates apparently. He’s only doing his job trying to block the merger, Spencer would be doing exactly the same if he was in Jim’s position.
I think unanimously we think he's talking something very smelly from his bottom, er I mean mouth. I'd seriously like to see what evidence he has to prove he's spoken to 'all' publishers and that they all don't like it.
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Re: Microsoft & Sony Sign Binding Agreement To Keep Call Of Duty On PlayStation
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Re: Microsoft & Sony Sign Binding Agreement To Keep Call Of Duty On PlayStation
What annoys me is that no doubt all the hardcore fans, or the sheep will blame Microsoft. Not Jim Ryan for losing them several hot games on their platform. I knew as I'm sure others did that this was the game Eyam was playing and the risk he was taking, others didn't though. But they know now.
Re: Microsoft Activision Blizzard Acquisition Given Greenlight In US After FTC Loses (Again)
@Kaloudz I have my fingers crossed the CMA will allow the merger without their complaint and as you say work on the concessions. And the CMA accept the concession, I think they will if they are working with MS on them. This is the best outcome for us in Blighty and for the case against the FTC.
Will be very interesting to see how tomorrow plays out. Especially now Sony have folded, and paid a price too seemingly.
On a side note I saw some of that case with Khan is it from the FTC, and one of the Senates pointed out how she had even let her own lawyer licence lapse! Khan seems to really not be fit for the job.
Re: Microsoft Activision Blizzard Acquisition Given Greenlight In US After FTC Loses (Again)
@Grumblevolcano Not sure about that after the news Sony has signed its deal. Personally I think they will close the deal, I’ve just seen others saying they may delay it. All eyes on tomorrow. Just hope we in the UK end up with the same perks from this merger, such as games on Game Pass, not sure about the cloud as I believe the concession put forward is for Microsoft to sell the cloud rights on Acti Bliz games in the UK?
Re: Microsoft & Sony Sign Binding Agreement To Keep Call Of Duty On PlayStation
Pfft like they had a choice, it was inevitable they would have to sign it, they obviously couldn’t though whilst fighting the merger. Don’t really care much though for Sony and crying Ryan, but they are paying for their delaying now. They should have thought of that.
Re: Microsoft Activision Blizzard Acquisition Given Greenlight In US After FTC Loses (Again)
@OM1993 All I see is the same as already reports, that they plan to close their investigation well before the August deadline. We shall see what happens tomorrow. It will put the UK market in an interesting position. But also I suspect nothing will change in relation to any games availability if the deal closes until the CMA make their verdict, if it’s only a couple of weeks away.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@Fiendish-Beaver Firstly as said that’s not how the CMA guidance reads, and the EU offered the idea for the concession to. Microsoft.
Secondly that is complete conspiracy theory, nothing more nothing less, no evidence, also any conflicts of interest would have been declared and all parties given the opportunity to object, and it’s also utterly ridiculous to suggest anyone cannot leave one job to go to another, and then cross paths again with a previous employer and be anything other then impartial. The CMA had valid concerns, were not offered any working remedies from Microsoft, so blocked the deal.
Re: Microsoft Activision Blizzard Acquisition Given Greenlight In US After FTC Loses (Again)
Do not be surprised if Microsoft extends its deal with Activision to beyond the 18th, some who are more grounded in this topic are claiming MS are showing no signs or intentions of steam rolling the deal through before the CMA approval, also could possibly have something to with the text on its agreement that all regulatory parties must approve it. But I would think they could work around that text. We shall see as lots of conflicting evidence around whether the deal will close or not on Tuesday. Tomorrow will be a very interesting day.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@Fiendish-Beaver Whilst I would naturally agree on who makes the concessions, this tweet from Microsoft’s President would imply differently hence my comment:
http://www.pcgamer.com/microsoft-president-clarifies-eu-cloud-agreement-popular-games-will-be-automatically-licensed-to-competitors-and-this-will-apply-globally/
This lead to my thought process on this as it isn’t specifically clear. I do remember reading even in comments on this site that the EU came up with the concession and Microsoft extended it to be global, which is what this report as many others seem to conclude.
Also if you look at the CMA guidance here: http://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1044636/CMA2_guidance.pdf
Page 90 point 12.14 ‘Notice Of Possible Remedies’, it states that the CMA will publish a notice of possible remedies which will act as a formal starting point of discussion of remedies. Thus implying again the regulator can suggest concessions to be looked at, that’s how I’m reading it anyway. Also it does highlight how there are several opportunities in the process to give remedies or discuss them before the final verdict is given, so MS did have the opportunity to do so including once the preliminary report had been concluded. It as we know the CMA rejected the remedies MS offered as not resolving the concerns they had.
I cannot concur your assumption of your last paragraph, that the CMA approached Microsoft, only a joint request from the CMA, Microsoft and Activision was sent to the courts to request the appeal to be halted. The rest of your comment in the last paragraph is pure conspiracy theory, I don’t know why you keep on following this thought process. You really seem to believe the CMA are out to block this merger no matter what. Like many on here seem to have this out going urge to believe in conspiracy’s as opposed to fact foe some very odd reason? That toxic gamers mentality coming to light.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@Moonglow Haha someone calls out your BS conspiracy theories and call them damage controlling. Grow up. And you can confront me directly if you have accusations.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@mousieone How do you know those meetings were for concessions? You just said yourself ‘closed doors’ as in details were not released to the public, it’s all hypothetical here say.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@mousieone Wong, it is only the deal in the UK, not the rest of the world, concessions for the UK market only. And the facts are clear, it was announced this week that MS and the CMA had agreed to halt the appeals process for now to look into concessions. Leaving them with 4 days to approve including a weekend. Why are you ignoring this? MS had a year and a half to come up with a concession to work with the CMA, why didn't they? All I read was that the EU came up with one, which was pretty generous of them, and that wouldn't work in the UK market with our mechanisms. I didn't hear much of MS working on concessions, maybe they did but I didn't read that.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@theduckofdeath Most likely, but I would much rather they follow this process as then it’s done and dusted approved and all legal, and us folk in the UK will get the same benefits, apart from what ever could concessions are made. It Acti Blizzard games in Game Pass! That’s the real goal we want.
They won’t wait 6 weeks, I expect it’ll be approved next week or the week after, I don’t expect it to be done this weekend as not everyone will want to work over the weekend. The CMA FTC and EU regulators do lease with each other, but their primary objectives are to protect their own markets and consumers, so the CMA won’t really take into account what the FTC is doing as they lost the first case. I hope. Fingers crossed.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@theduckofdeath As I understand no, because it’s in the courts, everyone expects the injunction appeal to be denied today or over the weekend but I think if it’s in the court it’s a big risk to go above that? If there wasn’t an appeal going through it would be plain sailing for them to ignore the FTC I believe.
People think if it’s not done by the 18th ActiBlizz will walk away. It would need renegotiating and gong back to the share holders I’m guessing otherwise?
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@Balta666 Thank you for that, but how does that give them an option to halt the appeals process and look into a new deal now? Could they not have done that a few weeks back when the appeals process was started? Did they need to wait for the CAT to make any ruling before a new deal was discussed?
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@Fiendish-Beaver An awful lot of assumptions all round. All we can go on are the facts which are that MS and the CMA announced they agreed ‘this’ week to halt the appeals process to look into new concessions, and they have 4 days including a weekend to do it.
And yes you are being incredibly cynical if you truly be,I’ve the CMA and FTC are in cahoots to stall the deal? For what purpose? As I’ve said a hundred times, all THREE of the biggest regulators had concerns of a monopoly over cloud gaming. They didn’t state that for fun or to block the deal out of spite, well maybe the FTC did, no they said it because that was what they concluded from all the evidence given. So then processes had to be followed, EU came up with a concession for ‘their’ market and structure that MS accepted and improved on, the CMA has agreed to investigate a new deal with concessions for ‘their’ market and structure, and the FTC just seems to want to block the deal. People need to remember whilst they are regulators, they do have different laws and regulations and processes to follow in each country.
This is NO conspiracy in Europe, just what happens for a 70 billion dollar merger. There is no colluding. As for America it is different as they don’t seem to want to look into any concessions, I understand they have a political angle there with the head of the FTC. So I’m not sure what game is being played but I know that is the one regulator who will kill the deal if successful.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
@OrfeasDourvas Remember, it was Microsoft not the CMA who chose to go down the appeal process path, NOT to see if they could renegotiate a concession. None of us are privy to all the laws and regulations around the processes, but it does seem to me that MS could have tried to negotiate a new deal at anytime after the original one was rejected if they are able to do so now. Considering the deadline MS should have done this weeks ago.
But I expect MS will close the deal providing the FTC appeal fails of course before the 18th, otherwise the deals dead. MS will work around the CMA, they can’t work around the FTC.
Re: UK CMA Delays Decision On Xbox ActiBlizz Deal Until August
Totally understandable that they can’t do it in 4 days… but 6 weeks seems a bit much (as like ‘everyone’ else on here not knowing what’s involved in the process). Still they do state they fully intend to finish well before that.
Re: FTC Appeals Court's Ruling Permitting Microsoft's Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard
@Dragonsbane Hey! Only if you share the winnings with me for giving you the idea lol.
Wonder if we will know by Saturday if the appeal has been killed or not?
Re: FTC Appeals Court's Ruling Permitting Microsoft's Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard
@Fiendish-Beaver And the exact same stupid accusations were thrown at the CMA because a member of their team worked for Sony years ago. Same stupid dumb accusation being made. But that’s the gaming community I guess?
Re: FTC Appeals Court's Ruling Permitting Microsoft's Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard
@Hutchilawd On a serious note the US stock market has been warned and prepared to devalue the ActiBlizz stock over the weekend, in readiness for the deal going through. Something like that anyway, but that was between yesterday and todays news.
Re: FTC Appeals Court's Ruling Permitting Microsoft's Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard
@Hutchilawd Visions of Spencer gleefully skipping down the road to Acti Blizzard HQ with a giant Price Is Right style 70 billion cheque under his arm is much better 🤣😂
Re: FTC Appeals Court's Ruling Permitting Microsoft's Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard
@Dragonsbane If they did win an appeal, what would you be thinking then if you don’t win the lottery lol?
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
@Moonglow You are ignoring so much, firstly I am not damage controlling by pointing out why being a UK consumer is a good thing.
Secondly, the EU would have happily blocked this merger on the exact same grounds of a monopoly in the cloud space being created by it, they came up with the concession to this which MS accepted and even expanded on. So please don’t shine the EU as some night and FTC and CMA as dragons. All three of MS major markets had the same concerns. So it would be utterly ridiculous for me to claim the CMA was right, as all 3 of them had the same concerns.
The CMA already stated they cannot work the concession the EU came up with due to their make up.
As for the CMA proving its relevance? It’s required by law, and is made up mostly of the same staff who did the same positions when we were in the EU. They don’t need to prove anything. You are just angry they blocked the deal, fine. But think about why Microsoft did not amend the deal before to appease the CMA? Did they run out of time or try their luck…. Also let’s not forget the regulators have had access to millions of documents, and hours of presentations from those against the deals, plus industry experts who they DO use. This will have been going on longer then 4 weeks!
The FTC did state it has concerns with cloud gaming in its court case, up yes it did seem to concentrate on COD for some reason.
I am not anti this merger, why would I be I just got 3 years of Game Pass. I do not like monopolies though, if it was one regulator I would be as upset, but all three have said the same thing. And this is Microsoft who are not shy of monopolies, so whilst you may think it’s bad for you personally, if they are allowed to do as they please as the deal they had without concessions their was a good chance it would end up behind band for everyone and the market later on.
But hey, MS and the CMA have agreed to look into amending the deal for the UK, good that’s what we want as then it can be passed and approved as the cloud was the only issue they had really, even if thru have to investigate it all again, but I can’t see it taking long as it’s the second time.
The FTC who knows, in Europe they can make concession, the FTC has a whole other system it seems and isn’t interested in those by the looks of it. You should be diverting your anger at them as they can block the entire deal for the world, the CMA can’t so unless you live in the UK they aren’t affecting you.
Re: FTC Appeals Court's Ruling Permitting Microsoft's Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard
Not surprised, I did see a grounded video on this and they believe they 'may' have a chance of winning the appeal. We shall see.
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
@Moonglow No, completely wrong. You are clueless if you really think these regulators do nothing and just 'investigate' to show they need to exist.
And I am happy to be a UK consumer thanks. I get tons of protection as such. I'm more than happy to have consumer laws and 12 month warranties, and the ability for legal action to be taken against companies who abuse the law and consumer rights, oh and I like the free government service I can turn to for consumer advice too.
Plus you have no idea what so ever what concessions will be made it how it affects the UK consumer. Total fallacy by you.
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
@Kaloudz Fingers crossed they amend the deal for the UK and the CMA investigates for a couple of weeks then approves it. As they will only need to investigate the amendment. Hopefully.
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
@HonestHick Well when you are a lawyer in a regulatory commission we will take what you say seriously lol. CMA has a point, as did the FTC and the EU. ALL had the same monopoly concerns, they have just resolved them in different ways. Hopefully they can find a way to move forward that suits both parties.
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
@Kaloudz Nope, they are defending their position whilst back tracking and taking no blame. Like a good true Brit lol. But if it’s their process to re-investigate that will delay the deal beyond this months deadline for the UK at least.
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
Whilst folks are happy to call the regulators stupid, lying, incompetent, making things up, having weak arguments. None of you are in their commissions, and the EU, FTC and CMA ALL had concerns over Microsoft creating a monopoly in Cloud Gaming! The EU came up with a concession to appease their concerns, the FTC has lost its case, and it looks like the CMA will possibly reach a concession they agree on soon too.
So I would be confident as THREE separate main regulators ALL had the same concerns, that they were pretty valid in those concerns and the evidence they have will be too.
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
@HonestHick Reaching an agreeable concession to appease their concerns is not the same as backing down and reversing their decision?
That’s a British way of explaining it 😂
Re: Microsoft And UK CMA Agree To Pause Legal Battle Over Activision Blizzard Deal
@Microbius No he isn’t! What a ludicrous thing to think, he has increased PlayStations profits, successfully overseen the launch of a new console, and is growing the business. He’ll be staying in his position.
Re: Xbox Wins FTC Court Case As Judge Denies Preliminary Injunction
@Moby The CMA did not really have COD as its reason for blocking, also they had a valid point over monopoly concerns of cloud gaming, the EU commission themselves stated the exact same concerns, but believed that the concessions made by Microsoft would alleviate those concerns. The CMA isn’t equipped, apparently, to manage those same concessions the EU had implemented. So I await to see how they do equip themselves for a workaround to be implemented. You need to remember, without the concessions made both the EU and UK commissions had concerns over Microsoft creating a monopoly in cloud gaming. The FTC also believed this but decided to push the COD angle mainly,
So whilst people were quick to slag off these regulators as stupid, all three of the biggest markets for Xbox believed Microsoft could create a monopoly in cloud gaming, so concessions had to be made to ensure that doesn’t happen, in fact the EU came up with their idea and told Microsoft take it or leave it I think, MS took it and expanded it beyond the required remit.
Re: Xbox Wins FTC Court Case As Judge Denies Preliminary Injunction
@Moby I would say is it something to do with having two cases running at the same time? But didn't the EU open some investigation into Sony based in the evidence given?
Re: Xbox Wins FTC Court Case As Judge Denies Preliminary Injunction
@Kaloudz 🤣😂🤣🤣 I shall read and follow what the CMA do and how they do exactly as you said, as a fellow Brit I know they'll do just that! They'll word it as a win for them 🤣
Re: Xbox Wins FTC Court Case As Judge Denies Preliminary Injunction
@Kaloudz I personally think as I've said before that the CMA has valid concerns. But I also think MS can come up with a solution to appease the concerns they had. Fingers crossed that's what happens and is folks in Blighty can get the same treatment as everyone outside the CMA jurisdiction.
Re: Xbox Wins FTC Court Case As Judge Denies Preliminary Injunction
@Martsmall That is the most excellent news! Let’s hope Microsoft can adapt its deal and concessions to please the CMA to approve the deal.
Re: Xbox Wins FTC Court Case As Judge Denies Preliminary Injunction
Still doesn’t really tell us what will happen in the UK? I seriously doubt like some claim, that Microsoft will simply dump and leave the UK market. But also no idea what will happen, if we will ever get ABK games on Game Pass in the UK. Still a long way to go yet as far as I’m concerned. But at least the deal will close now.
Re: Microsoft Is Expecting Two New PS5 Models In The 'Near Future'
Literally any new PS5 will be buried in hype over Nintendo’s next console, which most expect to be launched next year. And whether Sony likes it or not, Nintendo IS a direct competitor to them.
Re: Xbox Series X|S Consoles Have Reportedly Passed 21 Million Sales Worldwide
That's really not an impressive number looking at the competition. But for Xbox it's alright. If they had console exclusives that number would be far higher, but as we know with their current CEO that'll never ever happen.
Re: Xbox Could Expect FTC Injunction Verdict As Soon As Next Week
@Solidchief Several on here such as yourself are making a mistake. Sadly this weeks hearing was only about the FTC being given an extension to review the merger, the whole merger is far from over currently. So lots more news to come.
Re: Xbox Could Expect FTC Injunction Verdict As Soon As Next Week
@Moonglow You need to listen to what the judge said. It is in no way guaranteed the judge won’t vote in favour of the FTC.
Re: Xbox Could Expect FTC Injunction Verdict As Soon As Next Week
@Krzzystuff The CAT aren't annoyed with anyone? They are not allowed to be. Why do you lot read things that aren't there? All they will do is handle the appeal that's it, not stamp their feet and protest how annoyed they are with the CMA.
Re: Xbox Could Expect FTC Injunction Verdict As Soon As Next Week
I think going by the judges language she will grant the FTC their extension. Just a feeling.
Re: Microsoft's CEO Isn't A Fan Of Console Exclusives, Blames Sony
@Sherlock- I’m looking forward to when they announce their new console, and the hype will so high that Xbox and PS may as well not exist.
Re: Microsoft's CEO Isn't A Fan Of Console Exclusives, Blames Sony
@slatyatpion Oh for sure the complete hypocrisy is shining very brightly here. And I suspect the judge and court will see that. I would not in any way claim MS is winning anything yet. I find how MS and Sony and the FTC are attempting to twist what Nintendo is to suit there arguments hilarious too, when they are all correct, it does it’s own thing, has endless exclusives, and never had COD on Switch but it’s massively successful. They just pick and choose snippets of those facts that fit their argument. Judge will see through that.
Re: Microsoft's CEO Isn't A Fan Of Console Exclusives, Blames Sony
Basically the MS boss doesn’t like Sonys business model, but according to them streaming has not taken off as predicted, so you’ll end up with a console with zero exclusives but console and PC will be the way most people will want to play? Are they going to release all their games onto PlayStation then?
Really annoys me how MS whine and moan about Sony, yet refuse point blank to follow its business model despite the fact it’s proved hugely successful for both Nintendo and Sony and did so too for MS during the 360 era.
It’s like Microsoft shooting themselves in the foot, then spending billions and going through all this hassle just to fix it. Very strange business strategy.
They shouldn’t complain about being third then try to reinvent the wheel, they will never be anything more then third with this strategy.
Re: Here's The Email That Set Sony's 'Alarm Bells Ringing' Over Xbox ActiBlizz Deal
@BRT15 Actually Jim Ryan has very high credibility in the industry, look at how much money he’s made for Sony and how he’s successfully launched another console for them. He is doing his job well for a moron everyone hates apparently. He’s only doing his job trying to block the merger, Spencer would be doing exactly the same if he was in Jim’s position.
Re: Jim Ryan: Publishers 'Unanimously' Do Not Like Xbox Game Pass
I think unanimously we think he's talking something very smelly from his bottom, er I mean mouth.
I'd seriously like to see what evidence he has to prove he's spoken to 'all' publishers and that they all don't like it.
Re: PlayStation Boss: I Don't Like Xbox's Starfield Exclusivity, But It's Not 'Anti-Competitive'
Well of course he would say this, Sonys entire business model is built in exclusive games and deals with first and third party publishers. Dhurr.