EA Acquisition by PIF Completed: What the EA Buyout Means for the Gaming Industry

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Electronic Arts has completed its transition from a public to a private company after regulatory approvals in July, following an agreement first announced in September 2025.

The acquisition was executed by a consortium composed of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake and Affinity Partners.

Under the terms of the deal, PIF now owns 93.4% of EA, Silver Lake holds 5.5%, and Affinity Partners controls 1.1%.

EA shares were purchased at $210 in cash per share for holders at close, and EA common stock has been delisted from the NASDAQ.

Founded in 1982, Electronic Arts is a long-established publisher with major franchises spanning sports and entertainment, and it releases titles across consoles and PC, including versions for Nintendo platforms and distribution on the Nintendo eShop.

The buyout removes EA from the public markets and places stewardship firmly with the Consortium.

In remarks released at closing, EA chairman and CEO Andrew Wilson framed the transaction as an endorsement of the studio’s creative teams and long-term roadmap.

Wilson said the company will enter “a new chapter from a position of strength” with partners who share EA’s vision and who intend to invest to accelerate innovation and develop the next generation of games and experiences for hundreds of millions of players.

Turqi Alnowaiser, Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments at PIF, noted the sovereign fund’s prior minority stake in EA and said that experience gave the fund a clear understanding of EA’s platform, sports and gaming franchises, and intellectual property.

He described the Consortium as positioned to be a long-term partner to management in driving sustained growth and innovation.

Silver Lake CEO Egon Durban emphasized the role of technology and AI in future development, stating that Silver Lake intends to back EA’s growth and explore how AI can enhance game development and player experiences.

Affinity Partners CEO Jared Kushner highlighted EA’s cultural reach, saying the firm looks forward to supporting EA as it expands audiences and creative opportunities.

Saudi-linked investment activity in global gaming has included stakes in companies such as Nintendo, Capcom, Take-Two, SNK and Scopely.

That investment strategy has attracted scrutiny from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, and remains part of broader industry conversations about governance and influence in entertainment and sports investments.

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