New developments regarding Ubisoft’s financial crisis suggest that the company’s shareholders are reconsidering options to either sell the company entirely or offer majority control to one of its investors, Tencent.
According to Reuters, two sources familiar with the situation revealed that the Guillemot family, Ubisoft’s largest shareholder, is exploring the possibility of selling, but with a key condition: they wish to retain control over the company. Following these rumors, Ubisoft’s stock rose by 16% on Friday, December 6.
The Guillemots have been in discussions with Tencent and other potential investors, aiming for an acquisition deal that would allow them to maintain management control. The family reportedly wants to keep control over key franchises like Just Dance, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy, ensuring that these popular titles remain under their influence, as reported by Reuters’ anonymous sources.
Tencent uncertain about future with Ubisoft
Tencent has not yet made a decision on whether to increase its stake in Ubisoft or pursue a full acquisition of the French studio. The Chinese giant is reportedly interested in gaining more influence on Ubisoft’s board and a larger share of the profits, a proposal that the Guillemot family has not agreed to.
As a result, one of Reuters’ sources indicated that Tencent believes its current 10% stake in Ubisoft is sufficient for maintaining a collaborative relationship with the Assassin’s Creed studio.
While Tencent declined to comment on the matter, Ubisoft responded to Reuters, stating: “We remain committed to making decisions in the best interests of all our shareholders. In this context, as we have already indicated, the company is also analyzing all its strategic options.”
