Electronic Arts (EA) has officially gone private after completing its acquisition by a consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The transaction, which also includes Silver Lake and Affinity Partners, marks the end of EA’s nearly three decades as a publicly traded company. Additionally, it positions the gaming giant for its next phase of long-term growth.

Why You Should Care

The deal highlights PIF’s continued expansion into global entertainment and gaming, sectors it has identified as key priorities.

“Entertainment and sports are key areas of strategic focus for PIF, and are among the fastest-growing and evolving sectors around the world. Together, the Consortium is uniquely positioned to be a long-term partner to EA’s management team in driving sustained growth and innovation for EA and the industry,”

Turqi Alnowaiser, Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments at PIF

For the broader gaming industry, the acquisition brings together long-term investors that plan to support EA’s product development, technology investments, and future growth without the short-term pressures of public markets.

The Details

With the transaction complete, EA shareholders will receive USD 210 in cash for each share they held at the close of the transaction. Additionally, the company’s common stock has stopped trading on NASDAQ.

The acquisition was first announced by EA in September 2025. Furthermore, shareholders approved the transaction in December 2025 before it officially closed on August 4, 2026.

“Together, we’ll invest boldly, accelerate innovation, and build the next generation of games and experiences for the hundreds of millions of players and fans who inspire us every day,”

Andrew Wilson, Chairman & CEO of Electronic Arts

The Ripple

The acquisition further strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as one of the world’s most active investors in the gaming industry through PIF. It also reflects growing interest from long-term investment firms in the entertainment sector, where gaming continues to attract large global audiences and sustained investment in technology and digital content.

For EA, operating as a private company may provide greater flexibility to pursue long-term product development and technology initiatives while backed by investors with experience across technology, media, and entertainment.

What to Watch

The consortium has indicated that investment will focus on innovation, game development, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. Industry attention is likely to center on how EA expands its portfolio, develops new gaming experiences, and leverages its new ownership structure to support long-term growth.