Jared Kushner Joins Investors in $55B Deal to Buy Electronic Arts
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- Video game company Electronic Arts is set to be acquired for about $55 billion in an agreement involving Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, a private equity group and an investment firm founded by Jared Kushner
- Electronic Arts announced the planned acquisition on Monday, Sept. 29
- The deal is expected to be finalized in the first quarter of fiscal year 2027
Video game firm Electronic Arts (EA) is set to be acquired in a deal that’s valued at an estimated $55 billion.
The transaction is being financed by a group of investors that includes Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, private equity group Silver Lake, and an investment firm founded by Jared Kushner, the company said in a statement this week.
The company, which created games like The Sims, Battlefield and Madden NFL, announced the acquisition plans on Monday, Sept. 29, noting that the deal represents the largest all-cash, public-to-private buyout in history. Electronic Arts stockholders are set to receive $210 per share, according to the statement.
“Electronic Arts is an extraordinary company with a world-class management team and a bold vision for the future. I’ve admired their ability to create iconic, lasting experiences, and as someone who grew up playing their games — and now enjoys them with his kids — I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead,” Kushner, Chief Executive Officer of Affinity Partners, said in a statement.
Electronic Arts’ Board of Directors has approved the acquisition, which is expected to be finalized in the first quarter of fiscal year 2027.
“Our creative and passionate teams at EA have delivered extraordinary experiences for hundreds of millions of fans, built some of the world’s most iconic IP, and created significant value for our business. This moment is a powerful recognition of their remarkable work,” said Andrew Wilson, Chairman & CEO of Electronic Arts. Wilson is set to remain at the helm of the company following the buyout.
“The future for EA is bright, we are going to invest heavily to grow the business and we are excited to support Andrew and the EA team as the company accelerates innovation, expands its reach worldwide, and continues to deliver incredible experiences to players and fans across generations,” said Egon Durban, Co-CEO and Managing Partner of Silver Lake, the private equity company involved in the acquisition.
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Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund already holds a 9.9% stake in the gaming company, according to the news release.
“PIF is uniquely positioned in the global gaming and esports sectors, building and supporting ecosystems that connect fans, developers, and IP creators,” Turqi Alnowaiser, Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments at PIF, said in a statement. “PIF has demonstrated a strong commitment to these sectors, and this partnership will help further drive EA’s long-term growth.”
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