Electronic Arts (EA), the powerhouse behind hits like Madden NFL, The Sims, and Battlefield, is being acquired in a historic $55 billion leveraged buyout—the largest of its kind. The deal is led by a consortium including private equity firm Silver Lake, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners. Under the agreement, EA shareholders will receive $210 per share in cash, a premium of roughly 25% over the company’s recent trading price.
The transaction values EA’s equity at about $52.5 billion—with debt included, the total deal approaches $55 billion. PIF, which already holds a 9.9% stake in EA, will roll over its investment into the new structure. JPMorgan is expected to provide $20 billion in debt financing for the transaction. EA’s board has signed off, and the company will be taken off public markets if the deal is approved by regulators and shareholders.
Despite excitement over the bold move, analysts are divided. Some warn the $210 per share price may undervalue EA’s future prospects—particularly with a strong game pipeline and expected growth in bookings by FY 2028. Others believe the deal gives EA breathing room to pursue longer-term investments away from the pressures of public markets. The acquisition is predicted to close in the first quarter of EA’s fiscal year 2027, assuming regulatory and shareholder approvals are secured.
