Japan: Opened consultation on investigation into Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard

On 16 June 2022, the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) opened its investigation into Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a video game holding company headquartered in the United States of America. As part of its phase 1 review, the JFTC has invited third parties to hand in information and comments regarding the possible impacts of the merger on competition. This consultation period will last until 15 July 2022. According to the JFTC, the opening of the investigation does not yet necessarily mean the proposed acquisition represents a violation of the Antimonopoly Act.