The European Commission has approved the proposed $55 billion leveraged buyout of Electronic Arts by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Two private equity firms, Silver Lake and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners, are also involved in the deal.
Before the deal, the Saudi PIF already owned a 10% stake in EA. They also own additional shares of other video game companies, notably Grand Theft Auto publisher Take-Two Interactive.
First announced last September, the deal was approved by EA shareholders, who expect to receive $210 per share once the deal is finalized. Completion is still expected to take place in the first quarter of 2027.
“PIF is uniquely positioned in the global gaming and esports sectors, building and supporting ecosystems that connect fans, developers, and IP creators,” said Turqi Alnowaiser, Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments at PIF, when the acquisition was first announced. “PIF has demonstrated a strong commitment to these sectors, and this partnership will help further drive EA’s long-term growth, while fueling innovation within the industry on a global scale.”
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