Video game maker Electronic Arts agrees record $55bn buyout

Group 1 - Electronic Arts (EA) is being taken private in a record $55 billion buyout, with shareholders receiving $210 per share, representing a 25% premium on the closing price before the announcement [1][2] - The deal surpasses the previous record of $32 billion paid for Texas utility TXU in 2007, with approximately $20 billion of the purchase price financed [2] - The acquisition reflects confidence in the recovery of blockbuster game franchises after a post-pandemic downturn, where gamers had become more cautious with their spending [3] Group 2 - EA's sports portfolio has shown strong performance due to its global appeal and resilient in-game spending [5] - The transaction is contingent upon shareholder and regulatory approval [5]