Microsoft's Activision Acquisition Triggers Regulatory Subpoenas Over Workplace Harassment

  • The Wall Street Journal reports that federal and state regulators have broadened their investigations into Activision Blizzard Inc's 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 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.
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