Activision Blizzard Issues Statement Regarding Recent Article

Rhea-AI Summary

Activision Blizzard, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATVI) responds to a Wall Street Journal report, asserting it misrepresents the company and CEO's actions regarding sexual misconduct. Activision emphasizes its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace, citing significant improvements such as a zero-tolerance policy and ongoing diversity efforts. The company lauds its track record of delivering superior shareholder returns and highlights the impact of its popular franchises, including Call of Duty and World of Warcraft, in promoting social connections and corporate responsibility.

Positive

• Implemented a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate conduct.
• Ongoing efforts to increase diversity across the company and the gaming industry.

Negative

• None.

SANTA MONICA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Activision Blizzard, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) issued the following statement today:

“We are disappointed in the Wall Street Journal’s report, which presents a misleading view of Activision Blizzard and our CEO. Instances of sexual misconduct that were brought to his attention were acted upon. The WSJ ignores important changes underway to make this the industry’s most welcoming and inclusive workplace and it fails to account for the efforts of thousands of employees who work hard every day to live up to their – and our - values. The constant desire to be better has always set this company apart. Which is why, at Mr. Kotick’s direction, we have made significant improvements, including a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate conduct. And it is why we are moving forward with unwavering focus, speed, and resources to continue increasing diversity across our company and industry and to ensure that every employee comes to work feeling valued, safe, respected, and inspired. We will not stop until we have the best workplace for our team.”

About Activision Blizzard

Our mission, to connect and engage the world through epic entertainment has never been more important. Through communities rooted in our video game franchises we enable hundreds of millions of people to experience joy, thrill and achievement. We enable social connections through the lens of fun, and we foster purpose and a sense of accomplishment through healthy competition. Like sport, but with greater accessibility, our players can find purpose and meaning through competitive gaming. Video games, unlike any other social or entertainment media, have the ability to break down the barriers that can inhibit tolerance and understanding. Celebrating differences is at the core of our culture and ensures we can create games for players of diverse backgrounds in the 190 countries our games are played.

As a member of the Fortune 500 and as a component company of the S&P 500, we have an extraordinary track record of delivering superior shareholder returns for over 30 years.

Our enduring franchises are some of the world’s most popular, including Call of Duty®, Crash Bandicoot™, World of Warcraft®, Overwatch®, Hearthstone®, Diablo®, StarCraft®, Candy Crush™, Bubble Witch™, Pet Rescue™ and Farm Heroes™. Our sustained success has enabled the company to support corporate social responsibility initiatives that are directly tied to our franchises. As an example, our Call of Duty Endowment has helped find employment for over 90,000 veterans.

Learn more information about Activision Blizzard and how we connect and engage the world through epic entertainment on the company's website, www.activisionblizzard.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211116006219/en/

Investors and Analysts:

ir@activisionblizzard.com

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Press:

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Source: Activision Blizzard, Inc.

FAQ

What is Activision Blizzard's response to the Wall Street Journal report regarding sexual misconduct?

Activision Blizzard asserts that the Wall Street Journal's report misrepresents the company and its CEO's actions regarding reported instances of sexual misconduct, emphasizing their commitment to creating a welcoming workplace.

What measures is Activision Blizzard taking to improve workplace inclusivity?

Activision Blizzard has implemented a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate conduct and is actively working to increase diversity within the company.

How does Activision Blizzard view its workplace changes?

The company believes that the changes it is implementing are significant and aimed at making it the industry's most welcoming and inclusive workplace.

What is the stock symbol for Activision Blizzard?

The stock symbol for Activision Blizzard is ATVI.