Electronic Arts to be acquired for $55 Billion: the largest deal in gaming history

U.S. video game publisher Electronic Arts (EA) announced it will be sold to a consortium of investors in a deal valued at $55 billion.

The actual purchase price comes to $52.5 billion, since Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund PIF already owns a portion of EA shares.

According to The Wall Street Journal, this will mark the largest private equity–backed transaction in the gaming industry, financed through a mix of private capital and debt. The deal is expected to close in Q1 2027.

The investor group includes:

• U.S. private equity firm Silver Lake,
• Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF),
• Affinity Partners, the investment firm run by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump.

EA shareholders will receive $210 per share — a 25% premium over its September 25 closing price. Following initial rumors of the sale, EA stock jumped 15%, and gained another 6% today.

EA is best known for its FIFA/EA Sports FC franchise, as well as The Sims, Battlefield, and other major titles. In recent years, PIF has expanded aggressively into gaming, acquiring Niantic’s business and stakes in Nintendo and Embracer Group.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson said the acquisition reflects recognition of the company’s achievements and opens new opportunities:

“With continued rigor and operational excellence, we can amplify the creativity of our teams, accelerate innovation, and pursue transformative opportunities that position EA to lead the future of entertainment. Together, we’ll create experiences that are bold, expressive, and deeply connected to inspire generations of players around the world.”