EA acquired for $55 billion by Saudis and Trump’s son-in-law

Here is a 180-word summary of the key facts from the news article: Electronic Arts (EA), one of the world's largest video game companies, is being acquired for $55 billion by a consortium including Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund PIF, Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners, and private equity firm Silver Lake. The deal represents one of the biggest transactions in gaming history and will take EA private. Shareholders will receive $210 per share, a 25% premium over the current stock price. The acquisition will be financed with $36 billion in equity and a $20 billion loan, making it the most expensive leveraged buyout ever. The Saudi PIF, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been expanding its gaming investments, including stakes in Nintendo, Activision-Blizzard, and others. Jared Kushner, former advisor to President Trump, is also involved through his firm Affinity Partners. The privatization is expected to provide EA more freedom to focus on long-term game development without quarterly pressure from public markets. However, the deal faces scrutiny due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record and Kushner's political ties. Regulatory approval is also required before the transaction can be completed in early 2027.