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EA’s private buyout by Saudi Arabia’s PIF, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners is complete

EA is now a private company following its $55 billion USD buyout by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (FIP), Affinity Partners, and private equity firm Silver Lake.

“Having been a minority investor in the company for more than five years, we have a deep understanding of EA’s unique platform, massive global sports and gaming franchises, and iconic IP,” said Turqi Alnowaiser, Deputy Governor and Head of International Investments at PIF, as part of a larger statement. “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.”

“EA’s franchises are some of the most beloved in entertainment, combining exceptional creative talent with a relentless focus on players,” added Silver Lake’s Egon Durban. “As long-term investors in technology, we admire how EA’s innovation fuels imagination and human connection. We’re proud to join with PIF and Affinity Partners to invest heavily in EA’s growth, including what AI can do to enhance game development and player experience, and excited to partner with Andrew and the EA team as they raise the bar for fans everywhere.” 

“EA has created stories, characters, and communities that have become part of everyday life for hundreds of millions of people,” added Jared Kushner, Chief Executive Officer of Affinity Partners and son-in-law of US President Donald Trump. “We’re excited to support the company as it continues to reach new audiences, inspire the next generation of creators, and expand the ways people around the world connect through play.” 

“This moment recognizes the extraordinary people whose creativity, ambition and passion have made EA one of the world’s leading interactive entertainment companies,” added Andrew Wilson, Chairman & CEO of Electronic Arts. “We’re entering this next chapter from a position of strength with partners who share our vision and ambition. 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.”

As reported by Eurogamer, Wilson — who remains as EA CEO following the buyout — took home a $38.7 million USD bonus for the 2026 financial year following Battlefield 6 meeting “all milestones” set for the shooter. Wilson’s bonus comes despite reports of further layoffs within the publisher.


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Steve is the founder of Stevivor, which itself is a combination of ‘Steve’ and ‘Survivor’ -- that made more sense back in 2001 when Steve first arrived in the country and Jeff Probst was up in Queensland. The site started as Steve’s travel blog before transitioning over into video games.

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