Saudi Arabia invests in Nintendo again through its Public Investment Fund and takes 7% of the company.
9 months ago Saudi Arabia began to set foot in Mario’s house. He Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund continues to advance its video game plans with those of Kyoto, recently increasing its investment to acquire a 7% of Nintendo.
And 7,08% to be exact. Second movement of this nature that it carries out in 2023, since last January it increased its shares from 5 to 6%. It is unknown to what extent this offers influence on the company’s strategy, but it is another clear indicator that the country seeks to expand its presence and influence through the video game industry.
An investment shrouded in controversy
A situation as disconcerting as it is controversial, since there are many problems surrounding the government of Saudi Arabia. Your crown prince, Mohammed bin Salmanis in the eye of the hurricane when he is accused of having orchestrated the murder of journalist Jamal Khasoggi at the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul in 2018. The case became serious due to the existence of recordings which seemed to show that the journalist was tortured before his murder.
This, added to the human rights violations of the country, has generated strong skepticism around Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, through its Public Investment Fund, it continues to strengthen its presence in the video game sector with more and more shares in Activision Blizzard, SNK, Capcom y Embracer Groupamong other.
The president of Nintendo is clear about it. The company does not see the need to lower the price of Switch or its games, despite everything.