EA is about to be bought for 50 billion dollars. Its buyer is the new big dark horse of the industry

Electronic Arts (EA), the American video game giant responsible for popular titles like FIFA and The Sims, is on the verge of a potential acquisition valued at an estimated $50 billion (approximately €42.7 billion). This impending deal, if it materializes, would represent a significant shake-up within the global gaming market, raising critical questions about competition, data privacy, and the future of digital sovereignty in the European Union. The reported acquisition is being spearheaded by an investment group including Silver Lake Partners, an entity also involved in the potential acquisition of TikTok's U.S. operations, and the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund. While the details of the acquisition are still developing, EA's stock price surged significantly following the news, reflecting the magnitude of the proposed transaction. The Wall Street Journal has indicated that an official announcement could be expected as early as the beginning of October. The acquisition's impact extends far beyond the gaming industry, potentially affecting millions of European consumers who play EA's games. Moreover, it highlights the growing influence of non-European entities within the digital space and their potential impact on data control. This is particularly relevant in light of the EU's commitment to digital sovereignty and the protection of its citizens' personal data, which is governed by regulations like GDPR. The deal underscores the ongoing consolidation within the global tech landscape, raising concerns about potential market dominance and the need for robust regulatory oversight. European policymakers are likely to scrutinize the acquisition closely, especially in relation to the implications for competition, user data, and the strategic importance of digital assets.