EA is set to leave the public markets in a record-breaking move. Electronic Arts Inc., the publisher behind global hits like EA Sports FC, Madden NFL, Battlefield, Apex Legends, The Sims, and Need for Speed, has agreed to be acquired for $55 billion in cash by a consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners. Approved by EA’s board, the transaction is the largest all-cash sponsor buyout ever and signals a new era for the interactive entertainment industry.
Under the agreement, the consortium will purchase 100% of EA’s outstanding shares. Shareholders will receive $210 per share in cash, representing a 25% premium over EA’s last unaffected closing price of $168.32 on September 25, 2025, and surpassing the company’s prior all-time high of $179.01 reached in August 2025. PIF will roll over its existing 9.9% stake as part of the deal.
EA Chairman and CEO Andrew Wilson will continue to lead the company after the transition. He called the moment a powerful recognition of the teams’ work and said the partnership will enable the creation of transformative experiences that inspire generations. The new ownership structure is designed to accelerate innovation, widen EA’s global reach, and deepen engagement across gaming, sports, and entertainment.
The buyers highlighted both strategic and financial benefits. PIF underscored its commitment to building a world-class gaming ecosystem. Silver Lake’s leadership pointed to Andrew Wilson’s track record, noting EA’s significant growth under his tenure. Affinity Partners emphasized the cultural impact of EA’s franchises and their long-term potential with a more flexible, private ownership model.
The purchase will be financed through approximately $36 billion in equity from the three firms, including PIF’s rollover, alongside $20 billion in debt commitments led by JPMorgan Chase. Pending shareholder and regulatory approvals, the deal is expected to close in EA’s fiscal first quarter of 2027. Upon completion, EA’s stock will be delisted from public markets.
Based in Redwood City, California, EA will continue to operate under its own brand and remain focused on developing and publishing its flagship franchises. The company does not expect changes to day-to-day operations or its global studio footprint as a result of the transaction.
If finalized, this takeover would be a defining moment for gaming, highlighting the growing role of large-scale private investment in interactive entertainment and setting the stage for EA’s next phase of growth as a privately held company.
