Saudis Hit the Start Button: Electronic Arts Acquired in $55 B Game-Changer Deal
It’s done. On Sept. 29, 2025, Electronic Arts (EA) officially announced a definitive agreement to be acquired by a consortium led by Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, along with Silver Lake and Affinity Partners (which counts Jared Kushner among its principals) for roughly $55 billion.
This isn’t just a major tech deal—it’s a bold statement of cultural and economic intent. By acquiring EA, the kingdom is buying access not only to beloved franchises like FIFA and Madden, but to millions of engaged gamers, global esport infrastructure, and latent cultural influence. Several U.S. senators and developer unions are already sounding alarms, citing national-security risks, cultural exports, and foreign influence over creative enterprises.
The deal’s strategic angle: taking a publicly-listed giant off the market, layering new growth initiatives (sports betting, media, extended reality), and operating free of quarterly earnings pressure. “Gaming is the new oil,” one analyst observed.
In short: the playing field has shifted. EA’s value is now not just in games—it’s in influence.
By Emily Harper
Emily Harper is a culture and entertainment writer for VÉRITÉ Magazine, covering the intersection of music, luxury lifestyle, and digital innovation. She has previously written for emerging tech publications. Emily holds a degree in Media & Cultural Studies and is based between London and Los Angeles.
