Microsoft-Activision Deal Has Wiggle Room for Divestiture, Says Former CMA Legal Director

The video discusses the CMA's interim order preventing the closure of a deal involving Microsoft, highlighting the differences in approach between the UK and EU. The UK takes a stricter stance compared to the EU's more permissive approach. The CMA is reluctant to accept licensing deals, preferring structural remedies. The video also explores the global coordination between regulatory bodies like the CMA and FTC, and debates the impact of mergers on innovation and economic growth. Finally, it speculates on the future of the Microsoft Activision case.

What is the current status of the Microsoft deal according to the transcript?

• The deal is approved by all authorities.

• The deal is in limbo with an interim order.

• The deal is finalized.

• The deal has been completely rejected.

How do the UK and EU differ in their approach to the Microsoft deal?

• The UK is more permissive, while the EU is strict.

• Both the UK and EU have the same approach.

• The EU has not taken any stance.

• The UK is stricter, while the EU is more permissive.

What is a potential remedy discussed for the Microsoft deal?

• Complete rejection of the deal.

• A licensing deal.

• Full approval without conditions.

• No remedy is possible.

What makes the CMA's position awkward in the Microsoft deal?

• The CMA has no authority over the deal.

• The CMA is alone in blocking a US to US deal.

• The CMA has already approved the deal.

• The CMA is in agreement with all other authorities.

What is one argument against blocking mergers like the Microsoft deal?

• It has no impact on the market.

• It disincentivizes innovation and investment.

• It encourages monopolies.

• It leads to more competition.

What is the CMA's argument in favor of blocking mergers?

• Monopolies drive growth and innovation.

• Open markets drive growth and innovation.

• Blocking mergers has no economic impact.

• Mergers always lead to better outcomes.

What is the potential impact of the Microsoft merger on the cloud gaming market?

• It will lead to a monopoly.

• It will enable innovation and investment.

• It will harm Microsoft's competitors.

• It will have no impact.