Following the FTC's announcement, Microsoft's stock experienced a modest 1.5% increase, while Activision's shares dipped by 0.8%. Brad Smith, Microsoft's President, welcomed the opportunity to present the company's case in federal court, emphasizing the potential benefits the acquisition would bring to gamers and gaming companies. In a bid to address concerns, Microsoft even offered to enter into a legally binding consent decree, guaranteeing the provision of Activision's highly popular "Call of Duty" games to rivals, including Sony, for a duration of ten years. The acquisition was initially announced in January 2022, with Microsoft expecting it to be finalized by the end of its 2023 fiscal year in June. Highlighting the pressing nature of the matter, an FTC spokesperson stated that the request for a temporary restraining order was filed due to public reports suggesting an imminent closure of the deal.