EU set to approve PIF-led $55 billion takeover of Electronic Arts

A consortium led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), joined by Silver Lake and Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners, is expected to secure European Union approval for its $55 billion acquisition of video game giant Electronic Arts, marking the largest leveraged buyout in history ^[3]. The deal, announced in September 2025, is anticipated to receive unconditional clearance under EU subsidy rules by July 30 following a preliminary review, while separate merger regulations are expected to be cleared by July 22 ^[1][3]. This approval is critical for the investors to complete the takeover, which would make PIF the majority owner of EA and significantly reshape the global gaming industry ^[3][7]. Regulators are currently seeking third-party feedback as part of their assessment of the transaction's potential impact ^[6]. Once approved, the acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of EA's fiscal year 2027 ^[7].