Microsoft confirmed in last year’s lawsuits that Activision Blizzard would operate independently. But according to the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), after the latest layoffs, this is no longer the case…

It’s been several months since Activision Blizzard became part of Microsoft. But accusations from senators and FTC commissioners have been pouring in ever since Microsoft announced a massive layoff wave at Xbox. 1,900 employees were forced out of their jobs.

This reorganization primarily affected Activision Blizzard, but it appears that US regulators are continuing their crusade to restore the operation by any means necessary.

This isn’t the first time the FTC has tried to block Microsoft from merging following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. This time, they filed a complaint (via The Verge) because the commission said the multiple firings “contradicted” Microsoft’s statements. During those lawsuits last year, he confirmed that the company would operate independently. Activision Blizzard will remain the company’s decision-maker.

“Microsoft’s recently announced plan to cut 1,900 jobs at its video games division, including the recently acquired Activision unit, contradicts its previous statements to the court,” the regulator said. However, the Redmond-based company confirmed that it is cutting overlapping jobs. According to the FTC, the latter is “inconsistent with Microsoft’s assertion to the court that the two companies will operate independently after the merger.”

Microsoft is having the best moment in its history, FTC here or there

It is true that Microsoft is living in the best moment in its history. After all, its market capitalization has reached $3 trillion, and its shares have reached an all-time high. But all of this comes amid Xbox layoffs and rumours that Xbox will launch its exclusives on the PS5 and Switch as well. However, the gaming department’s finances seem to be in good shape. A few days ago, it was reported that Xbox set a record and achieved record revenue thanks to Activision Blizzard.

Source: The Verge