Saudi Arabia takes control of gaming giant Electronic Arts for $55 billion
- Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has acquired Electronic Arts in a record-breaking $55 billion deal.
- This acquisition is the largest leveraged buyout of a publicly traded company in history.
- This deal signifies a strategic shift in Saudi Arabia’s campaign to enhance its global image through the gaming sector.
In late 2023, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, in collaboration with Jared Kushner's private equity firm Affinity Partners, executed a historic acquisition of Electronic Arts for $55 billion. This monumental take-over, notable for being the largest leveraged buyout of a publicly traded company to date, aligns with Saudi Arabia's strategic objectives to diversify its economy and enhance its soft power on the global stage. Gaming, as a cultural avenue, is particularly significant in this context due to the country's youthful population that is highly engaged in digital activities. The move marks a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to reshape its international image, moving beyond traditional oil dependency and into diverse sectors such as entertainment. With this acquisition, the kingdom gains direct oversight of some of the world’s most popular video games, including beloved franchises such as FIFA and Madden NFL. This newfound influence in the gaming industry serves not only economic purposes but also fosters cultural engagement with the global youth demographic, positioning gaming as a crucial