Saudi Arabian investment firm Electronic Gaming Development Company has raised its stake in Capcom from 5.03% to 6.04%, according to a Large Scale Holding Report filed with the Kanto Finance Bureau on April 6. Notably, the firm only acquired its initial 5.03% stake last month, suggesting that further purchases could follow.
This move is part of a broader trend of Saudi investors steadily expanding their presence in Capcom. Another firm, Ayar Investment First Co. based in Riyadh, already holds around 6.6% of the company. Combined, Saudi entities now control approximately 12.64% of Capcom’s shares, with the potential for further growth.
Electronic Gaming Development Company is owned by the Misk Foundation, founded in 2011 by Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Despite the growing investment, the current pace does not yet indicate a hostile takeover.
Meanwhile, Capcom continues to perform strongly, releasing major titles and preparing upcoming projects. However, the increasing level of foreign investment has sparked concern among some fans. Reactions online have been largely negative, with one user stating, "Someone please make it stop before it's too late," while another commented, "It's crazy how there is literally nothing anyone can do to stop this."
Despite these concerns, Capcom is not without defenses against an unwanted takeover. The company could seek more favorable investors or issue discounted shares to dilute the influence of any aggressive stakeholder.
Saudi investment in the gaming industry extends beyond Capcom, with stakes in companies like Nintendo, Nexon, Square Enix, and Embracer Group. There is also a reported $55 billion effort to take Electronic Arts private, a move that could significantly reshape the industry, though such deals typically take years to finalize.
It is clear that Saudi investors are making a strong push into the gaming sector, but what this will ultimately mean for the industry remains uncertain.
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