Saudi Arabia's PIF Reduces Nintendo Stake to 6.3% Amid Ongoing Gaming Industry Investments

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has scaled back its stake in Nintendo, one of the most renowned video game companies in the world.

According to a recent filing in Japan reported by Bloomberg, the PIF now holds a 6.3% ownership interest in Nintendo, down from 7.54% in the previous month.

This marks the second consecutive reduction by the fund, following a 1.04% decrease in October 2024. The Public Investment Fund first established a significant presence in Nintendo in 2022, acquiring a 5% stake and increasing this to 6% the following year.

Despite the most recent divestment, the PIF continues to be one of Nintendo's largest external shareholders.

Nintendo, known globally for iconic franchises available on the Nintendo Switch and via the Nintendo eShop, remains a pillar of the video game landscape with strong international brand recognition and robust sales. Over the past several years, Saudi Arabia's PIF has increased its footprint within the gaming sector, acquiring sizable shares in prominent companies such as Koei Tecmo and Capcom.

In addition to its position in Nintendo, the fund holds investments in Embracer Group, Activision, Electronic Arts (EA), and Take-Two Interactive, reflecting its strategy to diversify and expand its portfolio within the global gaming industry.

These moves highlight the fund’s commitment to positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player within the entertainment technology sphere. However, these investments have not been without controversy.

Saudi Arabia's human rights record, routinely scrutinized by organizations including Amnesty, has prompted debate and criticism regarding the ethical implications of PIF's involvement in high-profile companies across various industries, gaming included. Despite these concerns, Nintendo continues to forge its path as a market leader, reporting consistently strong sales for the Nintendo Switch hardware and its software titles.

The ongoing evolution of shareholder composition has not impacted Nintendo’s output or strategy, with the company maintaining its dedication to innovation, quality titles, and global fan engagement.

The Japanese gaming giant remains resilient, riding a wave of both creative and commercial success as the video game industry grows ever more competitive and interconnected on a global scale.

Capcom Nintendo Koei Tecmo Saudi Arabia Koei Gaming Industry Public Investment Fund Bloomberg The Edge Embracer Group Activision EA Take-Two Amnesty