Activision Blizzard under SEC investigation over alleged sexual misconduct, discrimination
Another government regulator has its eyes on the video game maker.
Activision Blizzard is facing more than protests over its workplace conditions.
Activision Blizzard's legal troubles continue as the video game publisher is being investigated by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The investigation stems from a lawsuit filed in July by the state of California over the company's alleged toxic workplace conditions, including charges of sexual misconduct and discrimination.
The SEC subpoenaed Activision asking for documents, board meeting minutes and other disclosures since 2019 related to the complaints of sexual misconduct. Communications from CEO Bobby Kotick and other executives are also being requested for the investigation, and current and former employees have also been subpoenaed.
Activision Blizzard didn't respond to a request for comment. Spokeswoman Helaine Klasky told The Wall Street Journal, which earlier reported the investigation, that the company is cooperating with the SEC.
See also: California expands lawsuit against Activision-Blizzard: What you need to know
California's Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed a lawsuit against Activision Blizzard in July accusing the company of having a "frat boy" work environment. The complaint alleges women at the company were not fairly compensated and were subject to harassment. Following the lawsuit, several prominent members of the company resigned, including Blizzard President J. Allen Brack.
Last week, Activision was hit with a complaint to the National Labor Relations Board for allegedly threatening or intimidating employees who were speaking out on workplace harassment.