Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: EA), the videogame publisher behind global franchises such as FC and Battlefield, is in advanced talks to go private in a deal valued at roughly $50 billion, according to sources familiar with the matter. The investor group reportedly includes Silver Lake, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners, with an announcement expected as soon as next week. If finalized, the deal would mark the largest leveraged buyout in history.

The move comes as EA doubles down on its flagship sports and action shooter titles, including the upcoming Battlefield 6 and FC 26, to offset a slowdown in the gaming industry. Shares of EA jumped nearly 15% on Friday following reports of the potential buyout, underscoring strong market optimism around the publisher’s stable cash flows and predictable annual revenues.

For Saudi Arabia’s PIF, the investment aligns with its Vision 2030 strategy to diversify beyond oil and strengthen its foothold in global entertainment, particularly through gaming and esports. Analysts say EA’s globally recognized sports portfolio, led by its soccer franchise FC, represents a strategic cultural asset with mass international appeal.

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