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3h ago

EA Tells Staff No Immediate Changes After $55 Billion Saudi‑Led Buyout

The leveraged deal loads EA with roughly $20 billion in debt, stoking fears of post‑close cuts in six to nine months.

FILE - Attendees line up at the Electronic Arts booth to play the Battlefield 3 video game at the Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles on June 8, 2011. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)
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Overview

  • An SEC‑filed employee FAQ says jobs, teams, and daily work will not change immediately, with no executive team shifts expected before the deal closes.
  • The consortium acquiring EA comprises Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, with about $36 billion in equity and roughly $20 billion in JPMorgan debt.
  • Anonymous BioWare staff report preparing portfolios and exploring new roles after Dragon Age: The Veilguard underperformed EA’s targets and prior layoffs reduced the studio’s headcount below 100.
  • Former BioWare leader Mark Darrah and other commentators warn the debt load could drive layoffs, studio sales, or IP disposals, with financial press reporting investors foresee AI‑driven cost reductions.
  • Critics highlight reputational and cultural concerns tied to PIF’s role, while EA says its values and culture remain unchanged under private ownership.