The public investment fund of the‘Saudi Arabia invests in the world of videogames: now it owns the 5% of the shares of Nintendo. The purchase of shares follows similar investments made last year in companies such as Capcom, EA, Take-Two e Activision.
Saudi Arabia now owns 5% of Nintendo
The news comes from documents published by the Ministry of Finance of Japan, as reported by Bloomberg. The American newspaper reports that with this 5.01%Saudi Arabia becomes the fifth investor in the Super Mario and Link group.
The acquisition is part of the strategy Saudi Vision 2030, like the other acquisitions in the world of video games last year. Whose official goal is to diversify the nation’s oil-centric economy. Though Aramcothe flagship oil company, is not only the largest Saudi company: it has recently overtaken Apple to become the richest in the world.
Video games aren’t the only area Saudi Arabia is investing in. Several films have recently had the support of Saudi money, as well as in the world of football with the team of Premier League Newcastle. Where the acquisition of shares has passed despite the protests by fans over human rights violations in Saudi Arabia.
Some commentators view this acquisition as part of the government’s attempt to Mohammed bin Salman to project a better image of the country abroad. But the violations of human rights and the strong link with the oil economy (with the resulting pollution) are two topics that are unlikely to disappear.buying some video game company.
The 5% stake should not influence Nintendo’s future decisions, as it is not a majority. We will keep you updated on any developments in the affair.