The US$55 billion buyout now awaits government regulatory approval.
Electronic Art’s massive US$55 billion buyout by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), along with two other investors, is taking another step forward following shareholder approval. With that milestone cleared, the ongoing takeover now moves to its next hurdle, as government regulators prepare to weigh in on the deal.
As reported by Game File’s reporter Stephen Totilo on BlueSky: “EA's shareholders have officially approved EA's $55 billion sale to a consortium led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The deal will next need to receive approval from government regulators.” The next step will likely stem from major governments in the West.
Last October, it was confirmed that EA is going private following a $55 billion buyout by a group of investors: Saudi Arabia’s PIF, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners–the latter owned by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of current U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Saudi Arabian PIF is expected to own 93.4% of the company, while Silver Lake would acquire 5.5%, and Affinity Partners would hold the remaining 1.1%.
It is set to become the largest private equity buyout in history, and is expected to be finalized between April and June 2026.
A concerning buyout for the gaming community
Concerns have arisen over the ongoing takeover of one of gaming’s largest publishers, which is behind major franchises and titles such as The Sims, FIFA, Battlefield, and Apex Legends.
The buyout will leave EA with approximately US$20 billion in debt, which could lead to significant cost-cutting measures. Many are worried about the workforce, as mass layoffs may occur. Other concerns include increased monetisation and fewer updates for its games.
The massive buyout has faced heavy backlash from the community and advocacy groups. Saudi Arabia has been on an investing spree, making major acquisitions across the entertainment industry–including sports and gaming. Given the country’s controversial human rights record, some critics online are calling for an end to what they describe as a sportswashing effort.
