Silver Lake Finally Sealed a Dream Deal. Jared Kushner Was Key.

The Wall Street JournalTuesday, September 30, 2025 at 2:58:00 PM
Silver Lake Finally Sealed a Dream Deal. Jared Kushner Was Key.
Silver Lake has successfully completed a significant deal, with Jared Kushner playing a crucial role in the process. The private-equity firm's co-CEO, Egon Durban, has been interested in Electronic Arts for years, and this partnership marks a pivotal moment for both the firm and the gaming giant. This deal not only highlights Silver Lake's strategic vision but also underscores the growing importance of investments in the gaming industry, which continues to thrive and evolve.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Silver Lake Cements Power Broker Status With $55 Billion EA Deal
PositiveFinancial Markets
Silver Lake has solidified its status as a major player in the investment world with a groundbreaking $55 billion deal to acquire Electronic Arts (EA). This move not only highlights Silver Lake's growing influence in the tech and gaming sectors but also signals a shift in the landscape of leveraged buyouts, traditionally dominated by firms like KKR and Blackstone. The acquisition is significant as it reflects confidence in the gaming industry's potential for growth and innovation, making it a pivotal moment for both Silver Lake and EA.
Electronic Arts stock price target raised to $210 from $167 at UBS
PositiveFinancial Markets
UBS has raised its stock price target for Electronic Arts from $167 to $210, reflecting increased confidence in the company's future performance. This adjustment is significant as it indicates a positive outlook for EA, suggesting that investors may see potential growth and profitability in the gaming industry. Such news can boost investor sentiment and attract more interest in EA's stock.
Saudi Arabia to buy world’s largest video games publisher
PositiveFinancial Markets
Saudi Arabia is making headlines with its plan to acquire Electronic Arts, the world's largest video games publisher, valued at an impressive $55 billion. This move not only highlights the kingdom's growing interest in the gaming industry but also signifies a strategic investment in a sector that continues to thrive globally. As gaming becomes an increasingly important part of entertainment and culture, this acquisition could reshape the landscape of the industry, potentially leading to new innovations and opportunities.
US government shutdown looms, potentially delaying key economic reports
NegativeFinancial Markets
As the October 1 deadline approaches, the US government faces a potential shutdown due to Congress's inability to agree on a spending bill. This could delay crucial economic reports on jobs and inflation, creating further uncertainty about the US economy's health. Additionally, the article highlights a significant buyout of Electronic Arts by investors led by the Saudi Public Investment Fund and Jared Kushner, showcasing the growing influence of foreign investment in the tech industry.
Electronic Arts Buyout Is a Whole New Game
PositiveFinancial Markets
The recent buyout of Electronic Arts marks a significant shift in the gaming industry, potentially leading to a new era of innovation and growth. This move is seen as a response to the anticipated deal boom that Trump 2.0 promised, suggesting that major changes are on the horizon for both the company and its stakeholders. As the gaming landscape evolves, this buyout could pave the way for exciting developments that benefit gamers and investors alike.
How Jared Kushner brokered the $55bn takeover of EA
PositiveFinancial Markets
Jared Kushner has played a pivotal role in orchestrating a monumental $55 billion takeover of Electronic Arts (EA), leveraging his strong connections in Saudi Arabia. This significant business move not only highlights Kushner's influence in the corporate world but also marks a major shift in the gaming industry landscape. The deal is noteworthy as it showcases the growing investment interest from the Middle East in American tech companies, potentially reshaping the future of gaming and entertainment.
Electronic Arts Agrees to $55 Billion Buyout During Gaming Slump
PositiveFinancial Markets
Electronic Arts has made headlines by agreeing to a monumental $55 billion buyout, marking the largest leveraged buyout in history. This deal, involving investors including Jared Kushner and Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, highlights a significant shift as Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy beyond oil, tapping into the vibrant gaming industry. This move is particularly noteworthy as it comes during a challenging time for the gaming sector, reflecting a growing recognition of gaming's cultural importance among youth worldwide.
S&P Says It Expects To Cut Electronic Arts to Junk Status
NegativeFinancial Markets
S&P Global Ratings has announced that it anticipates downgrading Electronic Arts Inc.'s credit ratings to junk status following the completion of a significant buyout deal. This move is primarily due to the expected increase of around $20 billion in debt resulting from the transaction. This downgrade could impact the company's financial stability and investor confidence, making it a crucial development for stakeholders in the gaming industry.
EA Goes Private in Biggest Leveraged Buyout Ever | Open Interest 9/29/2025
PositiveFinancial Markets
Electronic Arts has made headlines by agreeing to go private in a monumental deal valued at $55 billion, marking the largest leveraged buyout in history. This move is significant not only for EA but also for the gaming industry as it reflects growing investor confidence and the potential for increased innovation without the pressures of public markets. Meanwhile, gold prices are hitting new highs amid concerns of a government shutdown, and Citi's Vis Raghavan is being considered as a successor to Jane Fraser, indicating shifts in leadership within major financial institutions. Billionaire Tim Draper is also on the lookout for the next big startup, showcasing the ongoing excitement in the venture capital space.
Gaming giant EA to be taken private in a $55bn deal
PositiveFinancial Markets
Electronic Arts, known for popular games like The Sims and Madden NFL, is set to be taken private in a historic $55 billion deal led by Saudi Arabia's public investment fund and other investors. This marks the largest leveraged buyout ever, highlighting the growing interest in the gaming industry. Meanwhile, China is also making headlines by launching a new visa program to attract young foreign talent, especially in light of recent changes to the U.S. H1-B visa fees. This shift could reshape the tech landscape as countries compete for skilled workers.
’Battlefield’ maker Electronic Arts to go private in record-setting $55 billion LBO
PositiveFinancial Markets
Electronic Arts, the renowned video game developer behind the 'Battlefield' franchise, is set to go private in a groundbreaking $55 billion leveraged buyout. This move marks a significant shift in the gaming industry, as it allows EA to focus on long-term growth without the pressures of public market scrutiny. For shareholders, this deal promises substantial returns, while for gamers, it could mean more innovative and immersive gaming experiences in the future.
EA Agrees to Private Investor Sale at $55 Billion
PositiveFinancial Markets
Electronic Arts has made headlines by agreeing to a monumental sale to a consortium of private investors, including Silver Lake Management and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, valuing the company at an impressive $55 billion. This deal marks the largest leveraged buyout in history, showcasing the growing interest in the gaming industry and the potential for significant returns on investment. As discussed by Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, this move could reshape the future of EA and the gaming landscape, making it a pivotal moment for both the company and its stakeholders.
Latest from Financial Markets
US announces direct-to-consumer ‘TrumpRx’ drug sales programme
PositiveFinancial Markets
The US government has launched the 'TrumpRx' program, enabling consumers to purchase prescriptions at discounted prices directly. This initiative is significant as it aims to make essential medications more affordable for Americans, potentially improving access to healthcare and reducing financial burdens on families.
Trump warns of "irreversible" actions in case of government shutdown
NegativeFinancial Markets
President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning about the potential for a government shutdown, indicating that irreversible actions could be taken, such as cuts to personnel and benefits. This comes as the US Senate is set to vote on a temporary funding bill. Additionally, Trump has reached a $24.5 million settlement with YouTube over the freezing of his account following the January 6 riot. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions in US politics and the significant implications of a government shutdown for millions of Americans.
Investors Are Fretting That the Stock-Market Rally Is on Borrowed Time
NegativeFinancial Markets
Investors are increasingly concerned that the recent stock market rally may be unsustainable, as stocks reach record highs. This situation raises alarms about potential overheating and inflated valuations, which could lead to a market correction. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for investors as they navigate the risks associated with high market levels.
FTC accuses Zillow of paying Redfin $100 million to stop competing on rental listings
NegativeFinancial Markets
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has accused Zillow of making a $100 million payment to Redfin to prevent competition in the rental listings market. This allegation raises serious concerns about anti-competitive practices in the real estate sector, potentially harming consumers by limiting their options and driving up prices. The outcome of this case could reshape how major players in the industry operate and ensure fair competition.
US crude inventory drops, but less than forecasted: API Weekly Crude Stock Report
NeutralFinancial Markets
The latest API Weekly Crude Stock Report reveals that US crude inventories have decreased, although the drop was less than analysts had anticipated. This information is significant as it provides insights into the supply dynamics of the oil market, which can influence prices and economic conditions. Investors and industry stakeholders will be closely monitoring these trends to gauge future market movements.
Rice acquisition corporation 3 prices $300 million IPO
PositiveFinancial Markets
Rice Acquisition Corporation 3 has successfully priced its initial public offering at $300 million, marking a significant milestone in the financial market. This IPO is important as it reflects investor confidence and opens new avenues for capital, potentially leading to growth and innovation in the sector.