Electronic Arts Joins PIF-Led Consortium in Landmark $55 Billion Transaction
RIYADH — A consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has completed its approximately $55 billion acquisition of Electronic Arts, advancing the Kingdom’s ambitions to become a global gaming hub.
The consortium, which also includes Silver Lake and Affinity Partners, first announced the deal on September 29 and received shareholder approval in December. Under the transaction, EA became a privately held company, with shareholders receiving $210 per outstanding share. The company’s shares have ceased trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market.
The acquisition marks another step in Saudi Arabia’s push to expand its footprint in the global gaming industry under the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched in 2022. The Kingdom aims to establish 250 gaming companies, create 39,000 jobs, and increase the sector’s contribution to GDP to SR50 billion ($13.3 billion) by 2030.
Turqi Al-Nowaiser, deputy governor and head of international investments at PIF, said: “Having been a minority investor in the company for more than five years, we have a deep understanding of Electronic Arts’ unique platform, massive global sports and gaming franchises, and iconic IP.” EA CEO Andrew Wilson said the company is entering “this next chapter from a position of strength” with partners that share its long-term vision.
EA will remain headquartered in Redwood City, California, and continue to be led by Wilson. The deal was described as “the largest all-cash sponsor take-private investment in history” when announced.
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