Electronic Arts faces acquisition talks that could result in a historic $50 billion private buyout. The video game publisher currently trades at a $43 billion market value, but may accept the higher offer from investment groups. Silver Lake Management leads the potential buyers alongside Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and Affinity Partners.
The deal represents what analysts consider the largest leveraged buyout attempt in corporate history. EA shares have surged 15 percent since reports of a buyout emerged from major financial publications. The company has maintained public trading status for three decades on the NASDAQ exchange.
EA produces popular gaming franchises, including Battlefield, The Sims, and EA Sports FC. The publisher previously operated the FIFA soccer series before licensing disputes led to rebranding efforts.
The deal represents what analysts consider the largest leveraged buyout attempt in corporate history. EA shares have surged 15 percent since reports of a buyout emerged from major financial publications. The company has maintained public trading status for three decades on the NASDAQ exchange.
EA produces popular gaming franchises, including Battlefield, The Sims, and EA Sports FC. The publisher previously operated the FIFA soccer series before licensing disputes led to rebranding efforts.
