Electronic Arts has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by an investor consortium comprised of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners in an all-cash transaction that values the company at an approximately $55 billion, it . The consortium will acquire 100 percent of Electronic Arts, which will see PIF rolling over its existing 9.9 percent stake in the company.
All three parties bring “deep sector experience, committed capital, and global portfolios with networks across gaming, entertainment, and sports that offer unique possibilities for [Electronic Arts] to blend physical and digital experiences, enhance fan engagement, and create new growth opportunities.” The transaction also represents the largest all-cash sponsor take-private investment in history.
Andrew Wilson, Electronic Arts Chairman and CEO
“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. Looking ahead, we will continue to push the boundaries of entertainment, sports, and technology, unlocking new opportunities. Together with our partners, we will create transformative experiences to inspire generations to come. I am more energized than ever about the future we are building.”
Luis A. Ubinas, Electronic Arts Board of Directors Lead Independent Director
“The Board carefully evaluated this opportunity and concluded it delivers compelling value for stockholders and is in the best interests of all stakeholders. We are pleased that this transaction delivers immediate and certain cash value to our stockholders while strengthening EA’s ability to continue building the communities and experiences that define the future of entertainment.”
Turqi Alnowaiser, PIF Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments
“PIF is uniquely positioned in the global gaming and esports sectors, building and supporting ecosystems that connect fans, developers, and IP creators. PIF has demonstrated a strong commitment to these sectors, and this partnership will help further drive EA’s long-term growth, while fueling innovation within the industry on a global scale.”
Egon Durban, Silver Lake Co-CEO and Managing Partner
“This investment embodies Silver Lake’s mission to partner with exceptional management teams at the highest quality companies. EA is a special company: a global leader in interactive entertainment, anchored by its premier sports franchise, with accelerating revenue growth and strong and scaling free cash flow. We are honored to invest and partner with Andrew—an extraordinary CEO who has doubled revenue, nearly tripled EBITDA, and driven a fivefold increase in market cap during his tenure. 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.”
Jared Kushner, Affinity Partners CEO
“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.”