- Saudi-Led Consortium Pursues $55 Billion Acquisition of U.S. Gaming Giant EA
- The landmark deal is awaiting a separate review under the European Union’s new Foreign Subsidies Regulation before receiving final approval.
A Saudi-led investment consortium, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) alongside Affinity Partners and Silver Lake, has moved closer to completing its $55 billion acquisition of U.S. video game developer Electronic Arts (EA) after receiving clearance from the European Commission, marking one of the largest leveraged buyouts in history.
The European Commission said the transaction does not raise competition concerns within the European gaming market, noting that the combined market position of the participating entities is unlikely to significantly affect competition in the development and distribution of video games.
The deal was reviewed under the European Union’s merger regulations, which are designed to ensure acquisitions do not undermine fair market competition.
However, the transaction is still subject to a separate review under the EU’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation, which aims to prevent unfair advantages stemming from non-EU government support. A final decision is expected by the end of July.
The acquisition covers EA’s operations in video game development and publishing across mobile, PC, and console platforms, in addition to its esports business and related marketing activities, further strengthening Saudi Arabia’s presence in the global gaming industry.
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