In a landmark transaction poised to reshape the global videogame landscape, industry titan Electronic Arts has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by a powerful consortium of investors.
The staggering $55 billion deal, if finalized, would mark the most significant leveraged buyout ever recorded. The move will see the publisher of iconic franchises like “Battlefield” and “Madden NFL” transition from a publicly traded company to a privately held entity.
The acquiring consortium is a notable alliance of deep-pocketed investors, led by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign Public Investment Fund. They are joined by Affinity Partners, the investment firm founded by Jared Kushner, and the established technology-focused private equity firm, Silver Lake.
The complex financial structure involves a substantial cash outlay and existing equity, supplemented by a significant debt package arranged by banking giant JPMorgan Chase.
For the Saudi Arabian PIF, this acquisition represents a strategic masterstroke in its ambitious campaign to become a preeminent force in the international gaming and esports ecosystem. The investment underscores a powerful bet on the long-term value of established entertainment properties, signaling strong confidence in the sector’s recovery and growth potential following a period of industry-wide challenges and market contraction.
