PIF Completes $55bn Electronic Arts Takeover

The Public Investment Fund-led consortium completed its acquisition of Electronic Arts on August 4, 2026, in a deal valued at $55 billion, taking one of the world's largest video game publishers private.

Under the transaction, Electronic Arts became a privately held company owned by the Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners. EA shareholders received $210 while the deal included around $20 billion of debt financing.

The completion followed the required regulatory clearances, including antitrust approval in the European Union, as well as shareholder approval. The fund had previously indicated the transaction was expected to close during the first quarter of its 2027 financial year, subject to those approvals.

Why it matters

The deal strengthens the Kingdom's growing footprint in the global gaming and entertainment sector, an industry increasingly tied to jobs, technology, and youth culture across Saudi Arabia. Gaming has become a fast-growing pillar of the national economy, and this acquisition places a major international publisher under Saudi-led ownership.

For residents and expats, the move reflects the wider push to build a diversified economy and a strong local entertainment scene, with esports and game development steadily expanding in Riyadh, Jeddah, and other cities.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving