Electronic Arts just released its Q2 FY2026 earnings, and while the numbers show a dip, the real story is what’s coming next: EA is preparing to go private in a $55 billion deal that could reshape the gaming industry.
📉 Q2 Highlights: A Transitional Quarter
EA reported:
- Revenue: $1.83 billion — down 9% year-over-year
- Net Income: $137 million — down 53%
- Net Bookings: $1.81 billion — down 13%
Despite the downturn, EA’s sports titles held strong:
- Madden NFL 26 saw returning player growth
- EA Sports FC 26 outperformed its predecessor
- Apex Legends rebounded with double-digit growth
- Skate and Battlefield 6 launches were spotlighted as community-driven wins
CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized EA’s creative momentum:
“Across our broad portfolio – from EA Sports to Battlefield, The Sims, and Skate – our teams continue to create high-quality experiences that connect and inspire players around the world.”
🕴️ The Bigger Picture: EA Goes Private
EA is set to be acquired by a consortium led by:
- Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF)
- Silver Lake
- Affinity Partners
This $55 billion buyout is expected to close by spring 2026, marking one of the largest private takeovers in gaming history. In response, EA has:
- Paused earnings calls
- Stopped issuing forward-looking guidance
This signals a dramatic pivot from public accountability to private strategy—potentially freeing EA from quarterly pressures and enabling long-term bets on IP, tech, and global expansion.
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