Electronic Arts, a leading game developer known for popular franchises such as FIFA, Battlefield, Apex Legends, The Sims, Plants vs. Zombies, and Need for Speed, has agreed to be acquired by a Saudi‑led consortium for $55 billion. The consortium—comprising Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), private‑equity firm Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, owned by Jared Kushner—will finance the transaction with $36 billion in equity and $20 billion in debt. The PIF will retain its existing 9.9 % stake in Electronic Arts.
Described as the largest all‑cash sponsor take‑private deal in history, the acquisition is expected to accelerate decision‑making and unlock new opportunities, especially in international markets. Electronic Arts’ board of directors has approved the deal, which is slated to close in the first quarter of the company’s 2027 fiscal year. Upon completion, Electronic Arts will be delisted from public stock exchanges and will operate as a privately held company.
The gaming industry has undergone significant changes since the pandemic‑driven surge, and Electronic Arts’ stock has lagged the S&P 500 over the past five years. The company saw a 17 % decline in early 2025 after disappointing sales of the latest football simulation, EA FC25. This acquisition marks a major shift in an industry now entering a period of restructuring, with potential implications for future investment and expansion into new markets. With its diverse portfolio of franchises, Electronic Arts is well positioned for growth and development under its new ownership structure.
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