In the latest episode of "MediaTalk," host Mike Reynolds and S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan analyst Neil Barbour discuss the implications of Electronic Arts' $57 billion going-private deal. Notably, while the multiples on this deal rival those of  Microsoft's purchase of Activision Blizzard in 2021, the industry is in a very different phase of growth. 

The conversation also looks at the current M&A landscape, delving into why the the anticipated wave of consolidation failed to materialize after Microsoft's Activision Blizzard deal. Will  regulatory hurdles and a cautious market environment continue to stifle potential deals?

The health of the video game market raises further questions. With Microsoft reporting a rise in content revenue from previously Xbox-exclusive titles now available on PlayStation, can this momentum be sustained? How will Nintendo navigate software sales following its Switch 2 hardware launch? And what factors are driving Roblox's impressive user engagement, especially around titles such as Steal a Brainrot and Grow a Garden? 

This episode prompts listeners to consider the future of the gaming industry and the potential paths for major players, asking what strategies companies should adopt to stay competitive in an increasingly dynamic market.

More S&P Global content:

• Video game industry sheds jobs to protect margins
• MediaTalk | Season 3 | Ep. 22 - Gaming Outlook Complicated by GTA Delay, Metaverse Momentum

Featured experts:

• Neil Barbour, S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan analyst

Credits:

• Host/Author: Mike Reynolds
• Producer/Editor: Sarah James

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