EA CEO Andrew Wilson says the company’s future is “brighter than ever” following a massive $55 billion acquisition deal backed by PIF, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners.
Electronic Arts, the publisher behind Battlefield, Titanfall, The Sims, and EA Sports FC, has officially confirmed it will be acquired in a historic $55 billion all-cash deal. The agreement, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, marks the largest all-cash buyout in the history of gaming and entertainment.
Under the terms of the deal, EA shareholders will receive $210 per share, a 25% premium over the company’s recent stock price. Once completed, the transaction will take EA private, with Saudi Arabia’s PIF rolling over its existing 9.9% stake. The deal is expected to close around mid-2026, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.
In a statement published on EA’s official website, CEO Andrew Wilson called this “a historic moment” for the company and reassured employees, players, and fans that the company’s mission and values are staying put.
“We Are Entering a New Era of Opportunity”
Wilson emphasized that the new partnership would unlock long-term potential for EA across games, technology, and sports.
“Moments ago, we announced that the Board approved an agreement for EA to be acquired by PIF, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners,” Wilson wrote. “Under the terms of the transaction, EA stockholders will receive $210 per share in cash, valuing EA at $55 billion. After careful evaluation, our Board concluded that this transaction is in the best interests of our company and our stockholders.”
Wilson went on to emphasize that the deal was not just about financials but about recognizing the creative drive of EA’s teams. “This moment is a recognition of your creativity, your innovation, and your passion. You have built some of the world’s most iconic IP, created stories that have inspired global communities, and helped shape culture through interactive experiences,” he said.
He also painted the deal as a new chapter for EA’s future: “This is one of the largest and most significant investments ever made in the entertainment industry,” he said. “Our new partners bring deep experience across sports, gaming, and entertainment. They are committed with conviction to EA – they believe in our people, our leadership, and the long-term vision we are now building together.”
Wilson also confirmed he will stay on as CEO, with EA continuing operations from its Redwood City, California headquarters.
“Our mission at EA to — Inspire The World To Play — continues to guide everything we do. Our values and our commitment to players and fans around the world remain unchanged,” the statement reads. “
“With continued rigor and operational excellence, we can amplify the creativity of our teams, accelerate innovation, and pursue transformative opportunities that position EA to lead the future of entertainment. Together, we’ll create experiences that are bold, expressive, and deeply connected to inspire generations of players around the world.”
“United by our vision, we will deliver experiences that transcend platforms and empower players everywhere to create worlds, characters, and stories that are bold, interactive, and deeply connected. Thank you for your creativity, your commitment, and the passion you bring to EA every day. This is a historic moment, and with the support of our new partners, the future we are building together is brighter than ever.”
What do you think? Do you feel this investment will strengthen EA’s games and franchises, or are you more cautious about what’s to come? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
