Electronic Arts increases stake in Ubisoft to 25 per cent

Electronic Arts has increased its stake in Ubisoft to 25 per cent, giving the publishing giant a full quarter of voting rights and 15.37 per cent of the company capital.

According to a new report, EA has said it reserves the right to raise its stake in Ubisoft over the next year, depending on market conditions.

EA acquired 20 per cent of Ubisoft in 2005, a move that the French publisher described as "hostile".

Speculation of an acquisition by Electronic Arts has refused to go away, with senior Ubisoft executives vocal in their opposition of such a move.

Electronic Arts now owns 6.99 million shares, representing 13.98 votes.

The report also states that EA "has no plans to seek to nominate board members, but could do so if there are any major changes in the Ubisoft's situation."