Microsoft is looking for alternatives to finalize the purchase of Activision Blizzard and will apparently overcome the UK blockade. However, its meeting with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, which also opposes the deal under the leadership of Lina Khan, is still pending.
However, the regulator is going through a complicated time, as its head is under investigation for alleged abuse of power. The U.S. authorities accuse her of taking advantage of her position to take the negotiations where she wants, leaving aside the regulator's principles.
Lina Kahn under the spotlight at crucial time for Microsoft
.The U.S. House Oversight Committee confirmed that it is investigating Lina Khan following a series of allegations against her. Christine S. Wilson, a former FTC commissioner, singled out Khan for abuse of power.
James Comer, chairman of the committee, believes the FTC has gone off the rails and may be a "rogue agency." The scandal and investigation arose because of Meta's blocking of Within's purchase.
Of course, this case resonates with that of the Activision Blizzard and Microsoft purchase, as the FTC and Khan are adamantly opposed to the major deal. Authorities will now take a closer look at documents related to Meta and its failed acquisition.
The committee cited several allegations from former FTC employees and former commissioners that put Khan between a rock and a hard place. Thus, the authorities are looking at whether the regulator follows process and ethical standards in making its decisions.
While this is not directly linked to Microsoft and Activision Blizzard for now, the FTC will have to deal with the case at a complicated time for its board. It is unclear whether this investigation will in any way improve the outlook for Microsoft, which is still awaiting the regulator's verdict.
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