Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners Acquire EA
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, equity firm Silver Lake, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity partners have completed their $55 billion acquisition of EA Sports FC, Battlefield, The Sims, Mass Effect, and Dragon Age publisher EA. This acquisition follows a recent filing from EA to the US Securities and Exchange Commission and confirmation from the European Commission that the deal will proceed.
In a press release, Jared Kushner, son-in-law of President Donald Trump, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating, “EA has created stories, characters, and communities that have become part of everyday life for hundreds of millions of people. 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.”
With this deal, EA transitions into a private company, now under the control of the three investment groups mentioned. Concerns have been raised by unionized workers at EA regarding potential layoffs, with the United Videogame Workers CWA emphasizing that any job losses or studio closures would be a choice to benefit investors rather than a necessity.
LGBTQIA+ players have also expressed concerns, particularly regarding popular games like The Sims, Mass Effect, and Dragon Age. The Sims team responded to these concerns following the acquisition announcement, reassuring players about the game’s diversity and inclusivity. Developers have also indicated their commitment to maintaining diversity in the face of any potential mandates to reduce it.
Our solidarity goes out to all workers affected by this acquisition.
