Microsoft's Xbox Plans Significant Layoffs
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: 3 days ago
0mins
"Game On" is The Fly's weekly recap of the stories powering up or beating down video game stocks.NEW RELEASES:This week's most notable new release is Electronic Arts'third-person fighting game "EA Sports UFC 6," which launches June 19 for PlayStation 5and Xbox Series X/S. Also out this week is Square Enix'saction role-playing game "The Adventures of Elliott: The Millennium Tales," which launches June 18 for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2.XBOX LAYOFFS/CLOSURE:Last Wednesday, Bloomberg's Jason Schreier reported that Microsoft's Xbox business is planning significant layoffs next month. The job cuts, the exact scale of which is not yet known, are expected soon after the close of the Xbox maker's fiscal year on June 30, Schreier said, noting that Xbox also intends to significantly slash budgets for marketing and some other parts of the business.That same day, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and Xbox chief content officer Matt Booty released online a statement it issued to Xbox staff globally. In the statement, the executives discussed the challenges the business faces, including the "hardware component crisis," the massive decline in annual revenue for the business, and the current platform infrastructure not being "built for the battle ahead." The statement did not, however, contain any specific mention of job cuts.Several days later, The Information's Aaron Holmes, citing three people with direct knowledge of the discussions, that Microsoft has considered spinning out or restructuring its Xbox unit, which could make it easier to sell. Microsoft doesn't have any imminent restructuring plans, but those options are on the table, sources told the website.On Monday, however, Bloomberg's Schreier, citing people familiar with the company's plans, that several Xbox development studios, including "South of Midnight" developer Compulsion Games and "Psychonauts" developer Double Fine, are in active talks to spin off as they attempt to ward off closures. Meanwhile, "Hellblade" studio Ninja Theory is also in negotiations with Xbox, as are a number of other studios across the portfolio at risk of being closed, the author noted. Kotaku separately reported that Compulsion, whose workforce counts over 90 staff, would be shut down, while The Verge said that workers at Ninja Theory were informed of a studio closure but are hoping the studio will find a buyer. The Fly notes that "South of Midnight" released just last year, that Double Fine released "Keeper" and "Kiln" within the last eight months, and Ninja Theory's upcoming game "Senua" was announced at the Xbox Games Showcase last week.EA ADVERTISING:On Monday, Electronic Arts announced the launch of EA Advertising, a new platform "transforming how brands connect with audiences through digital and real-world experiences across its global portfolio of games." As part of the launch, EA Advertising is introducing new ways for brands to reach audiences and measure performance across its ecosystem: Brand Partnerships and Gameplay Integrations; Ad Units in 3D Sports Simulations; Enhanced Targeting and Measurement Capabilities; EA SPORTS Partner Program.MORE VIDEO GAME NEWS:Robloxthe global rollout of Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accountsRussia's TASS said that Roblox has resumed operations in Russia,Ubisoftclosed two development studios, which will result in up to 380 layoffs
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Analyst Views on EA
Wall Street analysts forecast EA stock price to rise
4 Analyst Rating
0 Buy
4 Hold
0 Sell
Hold
Current: 203.020
Low
202.00
Averages
208.00
High
210.00
Current: 203.020
Low
202.00
Averages
208.00
High
210.00
About EA
Electronic Arts Inc. is a digital interactive entertainment company. The Company develops and delivers games, content and online services for Internet-connected consoles, mobile devices and personal computers. It develops and publishes games and experiences across diverse genres, such as sports, racing, first-person shooter, action, role-playing and simulation. Its portfolio of brands includes EA SPORTS FC, Battlefield, Apex Legends, The Sims, EA SPORTS Madden NFL, EA SPORTS College Football, Need for Speed, Dragon Age, Titanfall, Plants vs. Zombies and EA SPORTS F1. The Company also offers live services, including extra content, subscription offerings and other revenue generated outside of the sale of its full games. It primarily distributes its console products and services through partners, such as Sony and Microsoft. It distributes its mobile applications and additional content through distributors such as Apple and Google.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Saudi Fund Moves to Acquire EA for $55 Billion
- Acquisition Progress: A consortium led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has filed with the European merger regulator for its planned $55 billion acquisition of Electronic Arts (EA), with a decision expected by July 22 on approval or further investigation.
- Transaction Details: The consortium agreed to acquire EA at a cash price of $210 per share, and the deal will be scrutinized under the EU's foreign subsidy rules, which could impact the final outcome of the transaction.
- Market Reaction: EA's stock rose by 0.3%, reflecting a positive market response to the acquisition news, indicating investor optimism regarding the potential success of the deal.
- Financial Impact Assessment: Despite a 7.3% decline in the value of the Saudi fund in Q1, this acquisition demonstrates its strategic positioning in the global gaming industry, potentially opening new growth opportunities for EA.
See More
EA Launches UFC 6, Enhancing Fighting Experience
- Technological Innovation: EA SPORTS™ UFC® 6 utilizes cutting-edge Markerless Capture and Sapien Technology, allowing each fighter to be authentically represented in-game, enhancing player immersion and realism, which is expected to attract more fighting game enthusiasts.
- New Game Mechanics: The introduction of the Flow State mechanic, based on each athlete's authentic traits and fight IQ, allows players to gain advantages by mastering different fighting styles, thereby increasing the game's strategic depth and engagement.
- Expanded Career Mode: The decision-driven system in Career Mode has been expanded tenfold, allowing players to fight for and defend two championship titles simultaneously, which adds to the game's challenge and replayability, likely boosting long-term player engagement.
- Crossplay Functionality: UFC 6 introduces crossplay for the first time, enabling players on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S to compete against each other in online modes, which is expected to broaden the player base and enhance social interaction within the game.
See More
High Options Trading Volume for Electronic Arts and Vistra Corp
- Electronic Arts Options Activity: Electronic Arts (EA) saw options trading volume of 8,915 contracts today, representing approximately 891,500 underlying shares, which is about 49.1% of its average daily trading volume of 1.8 million shares over the past month, indicating significant market interest in its future performance.
- High Volatility Put Options: Among EA's options, the $170 strike put option was particularly active, with 2,761 contracts traded today, representing approximately 276,100 underlying shares, reflecting investor expectations of potential declines in the stock's future price.
- Vistra Options Activity: Vistra Corp (VST) experienced options trading volume of 22,616 contracts today, involving approximately 2.3 million underlying shares, which is about 46% of its average daily trading volume of 4.9 million shares over the past month, showcasing strong market interest in its stock.
- Active Put Options: For VST, the $120 strike put option was notably active, with 8,303 contracts traded today, representing approximately 830,300 underlying shares, indicating investor concerns about potential declines in the stock's future price.
See More
Saudi Investors Seek EU Antitrust Approval for $55 Billion EA Acquisition
- Massive Acquisition: A group of investors led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has sought EU antitrust approval for a $55 billion acquisition of video game developer Electronic Arts (EA), reflecting confidence in the recovering gaming industry.
- Regulatory Timeline: The European Commission has set a July 22 deadline for its decision, with the possibility of clearing the deal with or without remedies, or launching a full investigation if serious concerns arise.
- Strategic Investment Context: This acquisition aims to capitalize on the enduring value of blockbuster game franchises, as Saudi Arabia seeks to establish itself as a global hub for gaming and sports, thereby diversifying its economy.
- Subsidy Rule Challenges: While the deal is expected to secure antitrust approval, the group has yet to seek clearance under EU rules regarding unfair foreign subsidies, which could impact the finalization of the transaction.
See More
Oak-Eagle Extends Tender Offer Deadline for Electronic Arts Bonds
- Tender Offer Extension: Oak-Eagle AcquireCo, Inc. has announced the extension of the tender offer deadline for Electronic Arts Inc.'s bonds from June 15, 2026, to July 15, 2026, indicating a sustained commitment to the acquisition process and aiming to secure broader participation from bondholders.
- Bond Details Disclosed: The tender offer involves $750 million of 1.850% Senior Notes due 2031 and $750 million of 2.950% Senior Notes due 2051, reflecting the company's proactive financing strategy to support the upcoming merger.
- Merger Conditions Clarified: The completion of the tender offers and bond purchases is closely tied to the successful execution of the merger agreement, highlighting the company's focus on debt structure during the acquisition process to enhance financial flexibility.
- Market Reaction Anticipated: While the success of the tender offer remains uncertain, the extension of the deadline may attract more bondholders, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful merger transaction and bolstering market confidence in the company.
See More
Oak-Eagle Extends Tender Offer Deadline for Electronic Arts
- Offer Deadline Extended: Oak-Eagle AcquireCo, Inc. announced the extension of the cash tender offer deadline for Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:EA) senior notes from June 15, 2026, to July 15, 2026, indicating ongoing commitment to the acquisition process.
- Settlement Date Adjustment: The settlement date for the tender offers has also been pushed to July 20, 2026, reflecting the company's flexibility in financial arrangements to ensure the smooth execution of the merger transaction.
- Merger Agreement Context: This tender offer is linked to the merger agreement signed on September 28, 2025, which will make Electronic Arts a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oak-Eagle, showcasing investor confidence and strategic positioning in the gaming industry.
- Investor Consortium Support: The transaction is backed by an investor consortium including the Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, highlighting positive market expectations for Electronic Arts' future growth, which may influence its stock performance.
See More
Saudi Fund Moves to Acquire EA for $55 Billion
- Acquisition Progress: A consortium led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has filed with the European merger regulator for its planned $55 billion acquisition of Electronic Arts (EA), with a decision expected by July 22 on approval or further investigation.
- Transaction Details: The consortium agreed to acquire EA at a cash price of $210 per share, and the deal will be scrutinized under the EU's foreign subsidy rules, which could impact the final outcome of the transaction.
- Market Reaction: EA's stock rose by 0.3%, reflecting a positive market response to the acquisition news, indicating investor optimism regarding the potential success of the deal.
- Financial Impact Assessment: Despite a 7.3% decline in the value of the Saudi fund in Q1, this acquisition demonstrates its strategic positioning in the global gaming industry, potentially opening new growth opportunities for EA.
See More
EA Launches UFC 6, Enhancing Fighting Experience
- Technological Innovation: EA SPORTS™ UFC® 6 utilizes cutting-edge Markerless Capture and Sapien Technology, allowing each fighter to be authentically represented in-game, enhancing player immersion and realism, which is expected to attract more fighting game enthusiasts.
- New Game Mechanics: The introduction of the Flow State mechanic, based on each athlete's authentic traits and fight IQ, allows players to gain advantages by mastering different fighting styles, thereby increasing the game's strategic depth and engagement.
- Expanded Career Mode: The decision-driven system in Career Mode has been expanded tenfold, allowing players to fight for and defend two championship titles simultaneously, which adds to the game's challenge and replayability, likely boosting long-term player engagement.
- Crossplay Functionality: UFC 6 introduces crossplay for the first time, enabling players on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S to compete against each other in online modes, which is expected to broaden the player base and enhance social interaction within the game.
See More
High Options Trading Volume for Electronic Arts and Vistra Corp
- Electronic Arts Options Activity: Electronic Arts (EA) saw options trading volume of 8,915 contracts today, representing approximately 891,500 underlying shares, which is about 49.1% of its average daily trading volume of 1.8 million shares over the past month, indicating significant market interest in its future performance.
- High Volatility Put Options: Among EA's options, the $170 strike put option was particularly active, with 2,761 contracts traded today, representing approximately 276,100 underlying shares, reflecting investor expectations of potential declines in the stock's future price.
- Vistra Options Activity: Vistra Corp (VST) experienced options trading volume of 22,616 contracts today, involving approximately 2.3 million underlying shares, which is about 46% of its average daily trading volume of 4.9 million shares over the past month, showcasing strong market interest in its stock.
- Active Put Options: For VST, the $120 strike put option was notably active, with 8,303 contracts traded today, representing approximately 830,300 underlying shares, indicating investor concerns about potential declines in the stock's future price.
See More
Saudi Investors Seek EU Antitrust Approval for $55 Billion EA Acquisition
- Massive Acquisition: A group of investors led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has sought EU antitrust approval for a $55 billion acquisition of video game developer Electronic Arts (EA), reflecting confidence in the recovering gaming industry.
- Regulatory Timeline: The European Commission has set a July 22 deadline for its decision, with the possibility of clearing the deal with or without remedies, or launching a full investigation if serious concerns arise.
- Strategic Investment Context: This acquisition aims to capitalize on the enduring value of blockbuster game franchises, as Saudi Arabia seeks to establish itself as a global hub for gaming and sports, thereby diversifying its economy.
- Subsidy Rule Challenges: While the deal is expected to secure antitrust approval, the group has yet to seek clearance under EU rules regarding unfair foreign subsidies, which could impact the finalization of the transaction.
See More
Oak-Eagle Extends Tender Offer Deadline for Electronic Arts Bonds
- Tender Offer Extension: Oak-Eagle AcquireCo, Inc. has announced the extension of the tender offer deadline for Electronic Arts Inc.'s bonds from June 15, 2026, to July 15, 2026, indicating a sustained commitment to the acquisition process and aiming to secure broader participation from bondholders.
- Bond Details Disclosed: The tender offer involves $750 million of 1.850% Senior Notes due 2031 and $750 million of 2.950% Senior Notes due 2051, reflecting the company's proactive financing strategy to support the upcoming merger.
- Merger Conditions Clarified: The completion of the tender offers and bond purchases is closely tied to the successful execution of the merger agreement, highlighting the company's focus on debt structure during the acquisition process to enhance financial flexibility.
- Market Reaction Anticipated: While the success of the tender offer remains uncertain, the extension of the deadline may attract more bondholders, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful merger transaction and bolstering market confidence in the company.
See More
Oak-Eagle Extends Tender Offer Deadline for Electronic Arts
- Offer Deadline Extended: Oak-Eagle AcquireCo, Inc. announced the extension of the cash tender offer deadline for Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:EA) senior notes from June 15, 2026, to July 15, 2026, indicating ongoing commitment to the acquisition process.
- Settlement Date Adjustment: The settlement date for the tender offers has also been pushed to July 20, 2026, reflecting the company's flexibility in financial arrangements to ensure the smooth execution of the merger transaction.
- Merger Agreement Context: This tender offer is linked to the merger agreement signed on September 28, 2025, which will make Electronic Arts a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oak-Eagle, showcasing investor confidence and strategic positioning in the gaming industry.
- Investor Consortium Support: The transaction is backed by an investor consortium including the Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, highlighting positive market expectations for Electronic Arts' future growth, which may influence its stock performance.
See More
