Microsoft managed to secure preliminary approval from the CMA in September after restructuring the agreement to transfer cloud gaming rights for current and new Activision Blizzard games to Ubisoft.

Microsoft had cut similar deals with Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA) and Sony Group Corporation (NYSE: SONY) to win support for the acquisition.

The CMA's final decision is likely next week, following the expiration of a deadline for public opinions on the merger, said the report. 

If approved, this will conclude a 20-month journey of obtaining regulatory approvals and overcoming legal hurdles in Europe and the U.S. Microsoft and Activision extended their deal deadline to October 18. Still, support from the CMA could expedite the process.

The acquisition faced challenges when the CMA blocked it due to cloud concerns. However, the EU gave its nod after Microsoft made significant cloud concessions. 

If the appeal is unsuccessful, the FTC plans to resume its administrative case against the acquisition, potentially attempting to reverse the deal post-closure. However, this would be a significant challenge.

Price Actions: ATVI shares traded higher by 0.51% at $94.15 premarket on the last check Friday. MSFT shares traded higher by 0.23% at $320.09.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.