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Microsoft's Activision Acquisition Triggers Regulatory Subpoenas Over Workplace Harassment

Anusuya Lahiri
Fri, February 18, 2022


The Wall Street Journal reports that federal and state regulators have broadened their investigations into Activision Blizzard Inc's (NASDAQ: ATVI) leadership role in handling workplace misconduct claims.

State watchdog, The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing subpoenaed Activision's directors over its workplace issues.

It also has subpoenaed police departments in the Los Angeles area for records related to CEO Bobby Kotick and 18 other current and former Activision employees.

Related Content: WSJ Says Activision Blizzard CEO Feigned Ignorance About Employee Sexual Misconduct For Several Years

Meanwhile, the videogame firm looks to complete its sale to Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT).

The regulatory developments appear to have been triggered by Activision's sale.

Activision has disputed the department's allegations and called the subpoenas to police departments an "extraordinary fishing expedition."

Separately, the SEC has sent an additional subpoena to Activision as part of its investigation launched in 2021.

Activision has moved to Los Angeles County Superior Court to quash the agency's subpoenas to police departments.

Price Action: ATVI shares traded higher by 0.63% at $81.48 in the premarket on the last check Friday.

Berkshire Hathaway Bought B Worth Activision Blizzard Stock Before Microsoft Lapped It Up