Activision Harassment Probe From SEC Ups Risk to Top Executives

The Securities and Exchange Commission’s investigation of Activision Blizzard Inc. is certain to multiply the legal challenges for the video-game giant, in particular its senior executives, over claims of sexual harassment and discrimination, and how they handled those allegations, according to experts.

The company is already facing multiple regulatory probes, including from California’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing and the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as well as lawsuits from investors and shareholders who are seeking changes to the company’s corporate culture and compensation for the drop in its stock price over claims of sex bias.

But the latest ...