Electronic Arts Inc. announced Monday it will be acquired by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners in a staggering $55 billion all-cash transaction—marking the largest sponsor-led take-private deal ever. Six powerhouse firms are orchestrating the landmark deal, sending shockwaves across both Wall Street and Silicon Valley.
Under the agreement, the consortium will purchase 100% of EA, with PIF rolling over its current 9.9% stake. EA shareholders will pocket $210 per share in cash—a 25% premium above last Thursday’s trading price.
The Legal Titans Behind the Deal
The complexity of the EA $55B Deal has called in an army of elite law firms. Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz is steering EA’s legal strategy, while Kirkland & Ellis LLP advises the buying group. Kirkland is also the lead counsel for PIF, supported by Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP. Silver Lake is represented by Latham & Watkins LLP and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, while Affinity Partners tapped Sidley Austin LLP.
