Gaming Giant EA Acquired for $55 Billion in Largest All-Cash Take-Private Deal

Electronic Arts (EA), one of the gaming industry’s biggest publishers, has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by an investor consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) for $55 billion. The consortium also includes major investment firms Silver Lake and Affinity Partners.

Deal Breakdown

The publisher behind franchises like EA SPORTS FC (formerly FIFA), Battlefield, Apex Legends, The Sims, Mass Effect, Crysis, and Need for Speed is going private in an all-cash transaction. Under the agreement, EA shareholders will receive $210 per share, representing a 25% premium over the company’s closing price on September 25, 2025. Following the transaction’s completion, EA’s stock will no longer trade on public markets.

EA’s current Chairman and CEO Andrew Wilson will remain at the helm, and the company will continue to be headquartered in Redwood City, California. The deal is expected to close in Q1 of fiscal year 2027, pending regulatory approvals.

CEO Andrew Wilson’s Statement

In a statement about the acquisition, EA CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized his team’s track record of delivering extraordinary experiences to millions of players and building some of gaming’s most iconic brands. “We will continue to push the boundaries of entertainment, sports, and technology,” Wilson said, adding that the partnership would enable EA to create “transformative experiences to inspire generations to come.”

The company will maintain its Redwood City headquarters and current leadership structure under Wilson following the deal’s completion.

What This Means for Gaming

The acquisition, approved by EA’s Board of Directors, is expected to close in Q1 FY27. This massive buyout will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in the gaming sector while providing EA with increased resources for global growth and technology investments. EA reported approximately $7.5 billion in revenue for fiscal year 2025.