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On September 29, 2025, Electronic Arts (EA) agreed to be acquired in a $55 billion leveraged buyout by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake Partners, and Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners. The deal offers EA shareholders $210 per share, a 25% premium, and will take EA private by early fiscal 2027, ending its 36-year public trading history.
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In Riyadh, police pursuing a stolen Mercedes-Benz crashed from an overpass, killing a civilian and injuring an officer. The suspect evaded capture. The incident is under review, with social media footage capturing the chaos. No official identification of the suspect has been announced.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will visit Washington from November 17-19, his first US trip since 2018. Discussions with President Trump will focus on political, economic, and security issues, including potential normalization with Israel and a US-Saudi security pact. The visit follows a fragile Gaza ceasefire brokered by Trump and his recent Gulf tour.
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Major international banks, including Barclays, Goldman Sachs, and JP Morgan, are expanding their presence in Saudi Arabia, opening offices and securing licenses to offer investment banking and private banking services. This aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and regional economic diversification efforts, with a focus on private credit and capital markets.
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Fly Jinnah launched its Lahore-Dubai route, operating twice weekly, enhancing connectivity between Pakistan and the UAE. Meanwhile, Saudi and UAE airlines accelerate fleet expansion, with Saudia ordering 191 aircraft and Emirates celebrating 40 years of growth. These developments reflect regional ambitions under Vision 2030 and economic diversification efforts.
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British Chancellor Rachel Reeves is in Saudi Arabia to advance a trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council, aiming to boost UK economic growth by up to £1.6 billion annually. The trip includes meetings with Saudi royals, US officials, and business leaders, amid ongoing debates over human rights and fiscal policies. The UK hopes to deepen economic ties and attract investment.
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Saudi Arabia is actively engaging in Syria's reconstruction, with plans to attract billions of dollars in investment. Syrian officials highlight progress in economic recovery, while regional and US sanctions remain a challenge. The focus is on rebuilding infrastructure and fostering regional stability.
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Aryna Sabalenka won her 500th WTA match and finished the year as No. 1 after defeating Paolini at the season-ending tournament. She served four aces in the final, emphasizing her focus and consistency. The tournament features the top eight players in round-robin groups, with Sabalenka aiming to defend her title.
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Saudi Arabia welcomed 115.9 million tourists in 2024, surpassing its Vision 2030 goal six years early. The kingdom is expanding its tourism infrastructure, including giga-projects and new airports, to attract more visitors and diversify its economy. Meanwhile, the Philippines and Egypt are also boosting tourism with new initiatives and investments.
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President Trump is engaging in high-level talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, amid reports of a potential real estate deal involving the Trump family in Diriyah. The negotiations highlight ongoing blending of Trump’s diplomatic role and personal business interests, with several Saudi projects linked to the Trump Organization since his return to office.
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The film adaptation of the Broadway musical 'Wicked: For Good' opened strongly, earning $150 million in North America and $226 million globally. Critics praise the performances of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, though some note a lack of cohesion with the first film. The movie is a major success for the industry as it approaches year-end.
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Saudi Arabia has relaxed alcohol sales for non-Muslim residents, expanding access beyond diplomats. Recent changes include allowing high-income expatriates to purchase alcohol at Riyadh's sole liquor store, as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's broader reforms to diversify the economy and attract foreign talent.