EU SET TO APPROVE $55B EA ACQUISITION

The investor group, which also includes additional backers, secured approval under EU subsidy rules governing foreign acquisitions. The deal represents one of the largest gaming industry transactions in recent years. EA, one of the world's largest video game publishers, has faced regulatory scrutiny across multiple jurisdictions. The EU's approval signals a significant milestone for the transaction, though other regulatory reviews may still be pending in additional markets. The Saudi Public Investment Fund has increasingly invested in gaming and entertainment sectors globally. Silver Lake Partners, a major technology-focused private equity firm, has backed numerous digital and media companies. The acquisition's completion would mark a major consolidation in the gaming sector, following other high-profile industry deals in recent years. EA publishes major franchises including Madden NFL, FIFA, and The Sims.