Electronic Arts (EA), the developer, publisher, and owner of AAA IPs such as Battlefield, the Star Wars Jedi franchise, and the Sims, has been sold to the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, for a sum of US$55 billion (~RM231 billion). The acquisition of EA also means that the studio is now a private-owned company.
The deal is also the second largest acquisition in the history of the video game industry, the first being Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard back in 2022. Beside PIF, investors also include Silver Lake Partners, a firm that is managed by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of the sitting US President Donald Trump.
“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. This moment is a powerful recognition of their remarkable work,” said Andrew Wilson, Chairman & CEO of Electronic Arts. “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 energized than ever about the future we are building.”
The transaction, while approved by EA’s Board of Directors, is expected to be fully completed by the first quarter of the Financial Year of 2027. When that happens, EA’s common stock will no longer be listed on public markets. Stockholders in the company will receive US$210 (~RM885) per share.
