Electronic Arts (EA), one of the largest gaming companies in the world, has been acquired by a group of investors in the largest leveraged buyout on record, with the massive deal amounting US$55 billion.
As reported by BBC, The company will be bought by a group composed of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake Management, and Affinity Partners, a firm managed by US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. The group acquired 100 per cent of EA and took it private, with the purchase price set at a 25 per cent premium of US$210 per share.
“Our creative and passionate teams at EA have delivered extraordinary experiences for hundreds of millions of fans, built some of the world’s most iconic IP, and created significant value for our business,” commented EA Chairman and CEO Andrew Wilson, who is set to remain in post. “This moment is a powerful recognition of their remarkable work.”
“Looking ahead, we will continue to push the boundaries of entertainment, sports, and technology, unlocking new opportunities. Together with our partners, we will create transformative experiences to inspire generations to come. I am more energised than ever about the future we are building.”
This momentous deal marks the second most valuable gaming purchase in history, following Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard in 2023, a deal which cost US$69 billion. EA’s buyout also comes at a crucial point for the company, considering the imminent launch of massive games like Battlefield 6, FC 26 and Skate.
Kevin is a reformed PC Master Race gamer with a penchant for franchise “duds” like Darksiders III and Dead Space 3. He has made it his life-long mission to play every single major game release – lest his wallet dies trying.
Si Jia
