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Electronic Arts

EA is one of the world's largest third-party video game publishers and has transitioned from a console-based video game publisher to the one of the largest publishers on consoles, PC, and mobile. The firm owns number of large franchises, including Madden, EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA), Battlefield, Apex Legends, Mass Effect, Dragon's Age, and Need for Speed.

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Descubre ventas de insiders recientes de acciones de Nvidia, Electronic Arts y más, y qué podrían significar para los inversores.

Ventas de insiders destacadas: Nvidia, Electronic Arts y más en el radar

Descubre las ventas de acciones recientes por parte de insiders en compañías como Electronic Arts, M&amp;T Bank, Xcel Energy y Home Depot.

Ventas de acciones de Electronic Arts, Home Depot, M&amp;T Bank y Xcel Energy: Insider Trading

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JPMorgan analysts said they are encouraged by mobile gaming trends and expect spending on consoles to improve next year driven by a strong game slate. 
The research firm updated its coverage on video game companies, including Roblox Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>), Applovin Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APP#NASDAQ">APP</a>) and Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) ahead of their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41319267/us-gaming-market-sees-7-spending-decline-in-august-madden-nfl-25-debut-a-bright-spot">third-quarter earnings reports. </a>
Roblox: JPMorgan pointed to Roblox as one of the firm's favorite names in the video game industry due to its combination of healthy engagement trends, ads/commerce business ramping and free cash flow seen as compounding at 30% through 2027. 
The analysts also highlighted data suggesting Roblox's daily active users (DAUs) are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41257301/roblox-usage-climbs-among-us-teens-analyst-raises-target-to-54">tracking above </a>estimates and potential upside to third-quarter bookings. JPMorgan maintained its Overweight rating on Roblox shares and raised the price target from $50 to $51 ahead of its earnings release on Oct. 31. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41418987/nuclear-energy-stocks-are-hot-heres-a-list-of-tickers-to-watch">Nuclear Energy Stocks Are Hot: Here&#8217;s A List Of Tickers To Watch</a>
Applovin: JPMorgan highlighted Applovin as the leading in-app monetization platform for mobile gaming companies. The firm spoke with industry contacts who reported Applovin accounted for between 40% and 60% of their user acquisition spending. 
The analysts expect strong third-quarter results from the company due to stable growth in the mobile gaming industry, but remained neutral on the stock as the firm awaits evidence that Applovin can scale beyond gaming. The firm maintained its Neutral rating on Applovin, but raised the price target considerably, from $57 to $160. 
Electronic Arts: The firm pointed to EA's position as the largest pure-play game publisher in the industry that "increasingly favors scale and the largest IP" portfolio. The firm maintained its Neutral rating and $155 price target and said it is looking for "more consistent execution on non-sports titles" from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41365831/plants-vs-zombies-3-servers-shut-down-as-ea-plans-major-overhaul">the company</a>. 
Electronic Arts will be the first from the group to report its quarterly results on Oct. 29 after the market close. The Street estimates the company will report earnings of $2.02 per share on revenue of $2.036 billion, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Also:&nbsp;
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</ul>
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JPMorgan Updates Video Game Industry Coverage, Taps Roblox As Top Pick

The European Union's NIS 2 cybersecurity directive, now enforceable, mandates companies to bolster their cybersecurity<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41380184/as-apple-microsoft-battle-eu-regulations-this-new-cybersecurity-rule-can-cost-companies-up-to-10m-if" rel="noreferrer noopener"> practices or face hefty fines</a>.
Chinese researchers have successfully used&nbsp;D-Wave‘s quantum annealing systems to break classic encryption RSA, potentially accelerating the timeline for when quantum computers could pose a&nbsp;real threat to widely <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41325429/chinese-researchers-use-quantum-computers-to-reportedly-crack-rsa-encryption-raising-alarms-in-cyber" rel="noreferrer noopener">used cryptographic systems</a>.
Republican presidential nominee&nbsp;Donald Trump's&nbsp;2024 campaign has decided not to advertise on&nbsp;Snap Inc.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNAP#NYSE">SNAP</a>) Snapchat, a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41373962/trump-campaigns-snapchat-absence-potentially-gives-harris-edge-among-young-voters" rel="noreferrer noopener">platform favored by young voters</a>.
Amid growing concerns from the U.S. about the potential diversion of advanced chip technology to China, the UAE has assured its commitment <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41350661/amid-fear-of-chinas-access-to-nvidia-amd-chips-through-middle-east-this-ceo-assures-uae-reliable-par" rel="noreferrer noopener">to safeguarding these technologies</a>.
The assurance comes as the Biden administration considers imposing restrictions on chip sales from NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41323155/nvidia-amd-face-chip-export-curbs-as-biden-administration-considers-restrictions-on-middle-east-coun">to the Middle East</a>.
Gaming
The latest figures from Circana reveal a dip in U.S. video game spending for August 2024, with total expenditure dropping 7% year-on-year to&nbsp;$4.1 billion. Hardware sales fell 36%,<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41319267/us-gaming-market-sees-7-spending-decline-in-august-madden-nfl-25-debut-a-bright-spot" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> driven by a 41% decline in Switch sales</a>.
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) discontinued its $1 for 14 days Game Pass trial just before the launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which is set to release directly<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41365519/microsoft-ends-1-game-pass-trial-ahead-of-call-of-duty-black-ops-6-launch" rel="noreferrer noopener"> on&nbsp;Game Pass next week</a>.
Microsoft settles the antitrust lawsuit over its $69 billion Activision Blizzard acquisition, with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41342256/microsoft-settles-antitrust-lawsuit-filed-by-gamers-over-activision-blizzard-acquisition" rel="noreferrer noopener">undisclosed terms and no refiling allowed</a>.
Microsoft is set to expand its cloud gaming capabilities by introducing support for player-owned Xbox games, a long-anticipated feature that will allow users to stream titles <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41318405/microsoft-to-test-cloud-gaming-for-owned-xbox-games-in-november-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">from their&nbsp;personal game libraries</a>.
Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) will shut down Plants vs. Zombies 3 on November 15, 2024, halting downloads and in-app purchases in<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41365831/plants-vs-zombies-3-servers-shut-down-as-ea-plans-major-overhaul" rel="noreferrer noopener"> preparation for a&nbsp;"major overhaul."</a>
Riot Games, the studio behind&nbsp;League of Legends, announced a series of layoffs affecting its League of Legends PC development team, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41367265/riot-games-lays-off-27-developers-as-part-of-league-of-legends-restructure" rel="noreferrer noopener">alongside plans for&nbsp;future expansion</a>.
Bandai Namco Holdings, Inc. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCBDY#OTC">NCBDY</a>) faces workforce shifts and project cancellations despite the success of Dragon B<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41344105/inside-bandai-namcos-workforce-struggles-100-staff-members-quit-during-project-overhauls" rel="noreferrer noopener">all Z: Sparking! Zero&#8217;s 3 million unit sales</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41352155/elon-musk-applauds-spotify-after-streaming-giant-reveals-its-audiobook-catalog-has-doubled-" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Applauds Spotify After Streaming Giant Reveals Its Audiobook Catalog Has Doubled To 300K Titles</a>
Smartphones
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) reportedly had a secret partnership with Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer&nbsp;BYD Co Ltd&nbsp;(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BYDDY#OTC">BYDDY</a>) to create <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41372383/apple-had-a-hush-hush-relationship-with-teslas-chinese-rival-byd-for-now-abandoned-car-plans-cuperti" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-range electric vehicle batteries</a>.
Apple is expanding its payment offerings within Apple Pay, providing users with more flexible online and&nbsp;in-app purchase options. The company is introducing installment loan features and increasing the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/fintech/24/10/41385123/apple-pay-expands-buy-now-pay-later-with-affirm-adds-support-for-third-party-browsers-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">availability of rewards programs</a>.
Apple unveiled the&nbsp;upgraded version&nbsp;of its&nbsp;iPad Mini, marking the first significant upgrade to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41349691/apple-mini-gets-an-ai-upgrade-3-years-after-last-facelift-price-starts-at-499" rel="noreferrer noopener">the compact tablet since 2021</a>.
Apple has set a new sales record for its&nbsp;iPhone&nbsp;during the third quarter of 2024, coinciding with a broader <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41328252/apples-iphone-16-powers-record-sales-in-q3-just-behind-samsung-in-global-market-share-battle" rel="noreferrer noopener">recovery in the global smartphone market</a>.
Apple is reportedly ramping up its efforts to compete with&nbsp;Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>). The iPhone maker&#8217;s discounted version of the&nbsp;first-generation mixed-reality&nbsp;headset,&nbsp;Vision Pro, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41306527/apples-low-cost-vision-pro-could-hit-the-shelves-next-year-everything-you-need-to-know-about-iphone" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">could be ready by next year</a>.
Apple has terminated its self-driving vehicle testing permit in California. The decision follows the company's&nbsp;earlier<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41309072/apple-poured-1b-a-year-into-its-car-project-before-abandoning-it-tim-cooks-company-now-pulls-plug-on" rel="noreferrer noopener"> abandonment&nbsp;of its electric vehicle project</a>.
Apple is reportedly experiencing a shortage in inventory&nbsp;for several of its products,&nbsp;leading to speculation about the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/10/41322912/apple-to-launch-new-macbooks-pro-ipad-minis-and-imacs-analyst-says-inventory-dwindling-for-these-giz" rel="noreferrer noopener">imminent launch of new models</a>.
Samsung Electronics Co Ltd.&nbsp;(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) is reportedly preparing to unveil its "Special Edition"&nbsp;Galaxy <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41374294/apple-rival-samsung-to-unfold-special-edition-of-its-latest-flagship-foldable-phone" rel="noreferrer noopener">Z Fold 6&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41374294/apple-rival-samsung-to-unfold-special-edition-of-its-latest-flagship-foldable-phone" rel="noreferrer noopener">as&nbsp;early as next week</a>.
Social Media, AI &amp; Technology
YouTube, a subsidiary of&nbsp;Alphabet Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) Google, is extending its "Premium Lite" plan to additional countries, offering a more <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41373073/youtubes-premium-lite-plan-that-removes-some-ads-but-doesnt-offer-any-other-perks-is-rolling-out-to" rel="noreferrer noopener">affordable subscription with fewer ads</a>.
YouTube&nbsp;has unveiled a significant update that introduces a range of new features designed to enhance the user experience and foster a stronger connection between <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41350347/youtube-rolls-out-new-features-including-sleep-timer-collaborative-playlists-and-enhanced-m" rel="noreferrer noopener">creators and their audiences</a>.
Google&nbsp;has requested the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to put a stop to the impending changes mandated by Judge&nbsp;James Donato's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41375089/google-urges-9th-circuit-to-halt-dangerous-epic-ruling-cites-substantial-new-security-risks" rel="noreferrer noopener">ruling in the Epic v. Google case</a>.
Google&nbsp;has officially begun rolling out Android 15, the latest version of its&nbsp;mobile operating system, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41350862/google-rolls-out-android-15-with-theft-detection-lock-privacy-features-for-sensitive-apps-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">to Pixel devices today</a>.
Meta confirmed layoffs across multiple teams, including&nbsp;Instagram,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41375934/meta-confirms-layoffs-across-instagram-whatsapp-and-reality-labs-amid-strategic-reshuffle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WhatsApp</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41375934/meta-confirms-layoffs-across-instagram-whatsapp-and-reality-labs-amid-strategic-reshuffle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">, and&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41375934/meta-confirms-layoffs-across-instagram-whatsapp-and-reality-labs-amid-strategic-reshuffle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reality Labs</a>.
On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge&nbsp;Yvonne Gonzalez&nbsp;Rogers&nbsp;in California rejected Meta's attempt to dismiss the claims made&nbsp;in two separate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41349398/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-to-face-lawsuits-over-teen-social-media-addiction-judge-rejects-dismissal-moti" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lawsuits filed&nbsp;last year</a>. The lawsuits involving over 30 states,&nbsp;including California, New York, and Florida, accuse Meta of contributing to mental health issues among teenagers by making its platforms addictive.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) reportedly started manufacturing A16 chips for&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;at its Phoenix, Arizona facility. This move is part of the U.S. strategy to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41356479/apple-spark-hope-for-americas-semiconductor-comeback-key-supplier-tsmc-reportedly-begins-producing-c" rel="noreferrer noopener"> enhance domestic semiconductor production</a>.
Sebastien Bubeck, the vice president of GenAI research at&nbsp;Microsoft is set t<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41322687/sam-altman-led-openai-welcomes-microsofts-genai-research-vp-following-wave-of-executive-departures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">o join&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41322687/sam-altman-led-openai-welcomes-microsofts-genai-research-vp-following-wave-of-executive-departures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ChatGPT</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41322687/sam-altman-led-openai-welcomes-microsofts-genai-research-vp-following-wave-of-executive-departures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">-parent,&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41322687/sam-altman-led-openai-welcomes-microsofts-genai-research-vp-following-wave-of-executive-departures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI</a>.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41309060/nvidias-jensen-huang-says-chatgpt-led-to-awakening-of-ai-praises-sam-altmans-openai-as-one-of-most-c" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia&#8217;s Jensen Huang Says ChatGPT Led To &#8216;Awakening Of AI,&#8217; Praises Sam Altman&#8217;s OpenAI As One Of Most Consequential Companies Of Our Time</a>

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Consumer Tech News (Oct 14-18): Biden Administration Considers Imposing Restrictions On Chip Sales, Apple Inks Secret Deal With BYD & More

Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) will take Plants vs. Zombies 3 offline, halting downloads and in-app purchases in preparation for a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">&#8220;major overhaul.&#8221; </a>
The company announced that the game, which has gone through multiple soft launches since 2020, will be inaccessible from Nov. 15, 2024, in all territories. Players will have until that date to enjoy the game before the servers shut down completely.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41319267/us-gaming-market-sees-7-spending-decline-in-august-madden-nfl-25-debut-a-bright-spot">US Gaming Market Sees 7% Spending Decline In August: Madden NFL 25 Debut A Bright Spot</a>
In a blog post addressing the changes, EA <a href="https://www.ea.com/games/plants-vs-zombies/plants-vs-zombies-3/news/soft-launch-announcement-15-oct?isLocalized=true">explained:</a> "We've been grateful for your enthusiasm and feedback during our soft launch. We've always had love for our plants, and yes, even our zombies, and it has been a joy bringing life to Dave, his niece, Patrice, Nate, and many more in PvZ3."
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Game Progress And Currency Preservation</h3>
Despite the reset, EA reassured players that some aspects of their accounts will be preserved. Any earned or purchased coin balances will remain intact, provided players have connected their accounts through Google Play, Apple ID, or an EA Account. 
However, boosts, game progress, levels, and unlocked units, as well as the game&#8217;s narrative, will be reset once the overhaul is complete.
"We want to go even further to make the game truly special," EA stated, stressing the need for this downtime to deliver a more polished experience. It&#8217;s worth noting that there's no firm date for the game's re-launch.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Ongoing Struggles Of Plants Vs. Zombies 3</h3>
Plants vs. Zombies 3 has experienced a turbulent development path, struggling to replicate the success of its predecessors. Initially soft-launched in 2020, the game underwent a significant re-work and re-launch in 2022. Yet, despite efforts to fine-tune the game, it still hasn't resonated with fans in the way EA had hoped.
The original Plants vs. Zombies franchise, beloved for its unique tower defense mechanics, set a high bar with its first two installments. More recent spin-offs, including the Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville, have struggled to capture the same widespread acclaim.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Future Of The Franchise</h3>
Fans of the franchise have long been calling for a return to the Garden Warfare series, the third-person shooter spin-off that earned a dedicated following. However, there's been no official word from EA on a new Garden Warfare title, despite the franchise's current hiatus since 2019.
A separate single-player Plants vs. Zombies game, which had been in development at EA between 2015 and 2017, was also canceled.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41129439/leaked-ea-project-rene-images-reveal-controversial-changes-why-the-sims-fans-are-furious">Leaked EA Project Rene Images Reveal Controversial Changes: Why The Sims Fans Are Furious</a></li>
</ul>
Image courtesy: EA

General

Plants Vs. Zombies 3 Servers Shut Down As EA Plans 'Major Overhaul'

BMO Capital analyst Brian Pitz reiterates Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) with a Outperform and maintains $154 price target.

Price Target

Reiteration

BMO Capital Reiterates Outperform on Electronic Arts, Maintains $154 Price Target

The latest figures from Circana reveal a dip in U.S. video game spending for August 2024, with total expenditure dropping 7% year-on-year to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">$4.1 billion. </a>
Hardware sales fell by 36%, down to $208 million, compared to August 2023. This decline was most pronounced for Nintendo ADR&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) Nintendo Switch, which saw a 41% drop in sales, GamesIndustry.biz <a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/august-spending-drops-7-to-41bn-despite-madden-and-mobile-success-us-monthly-charts">reported.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41318405/microsoft-to-test-cloud-gaming-for-owned-xbox-games-in-november-report">Microsoft To Test Cloud Gaming For Owned Xbox Games In November: Report</a>
Despite the downturn in hardware spending, Sony Group Corp.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) PlayStation 5 continued to hold its position as the bestselling console for the month.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Video Game Content Spending Declines, But Mobile Shows Growth</h1>
Overall video game content spending, which includes physical and digital game sales, microtransactions, DLC and subscriptions, dropped by 5% to $3.7 billion.
While this decline affected multiple platforms, there was a bright spot: mobile content spending grew by 5%, according to data from Sensor Tower. 
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Madden NFL 25 Tops The Charts, EA Continues Its Dominance</h1>
August saw the release of Electronic Arts Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) Madden NFL 25, which claimed the top spot as the best-selling game for the month. This marks the 25th consecutive year that a Madden title has achieved the highest sales in its debut month.
EA Sports College Football 25, which was last month's No.1, slipped to second place but maintained its position as the top-selling game of the year so far, surpassing Helldivers 2. Interestingly, the EA Sports MVP Bundle, featuring deluxe editions of both College Football and Madden, also made its mark, landing as the fifth biggest seller of the year and the fourth highest in August.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">New Releases Make Strong Debuts</h1>
Three other new releases made impressive entries into the top 20 for August. Ubisoft Entertainment SA's (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBSFF#OTC">UBSFF</a>) Star Wars: Outlaws debuted at No.3, signaling strong interest in the long-awaited open-world title. 
Square Enix Holdings Co.'s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQNXF#OTC">SQNXF</a>) Visions of Mana landed at No.10, while Bandai Namco Holdings ADR's (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCBDY#OTC">NCBDY</a>) Gundam Breaker 4 secured the 11th spot.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Stable Year-To-Date Spending Despite August Declines</h1>
Despite the August dip, the U.S. games market remains stable for the year overall. Year-to-date spending reached $36.3 billion, a 1% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
While hardware sales continue to struggle, dropping 28% to $2.3 billion, video game content spending has risen by 4% to $32.3 billion, highlighting the continued demand for digital entertainment and services.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Top-Selling Games Of August 2024</h1>
Here's the list of the top 20 selling games for August, according to Circana:
<ol>
<li>Madden NFL 25</li>
<li>EA Sports College Football</li>
<li>Star Wars: Outlaws</li>
<li>EA Sports MVP Bundle</li>
<li>Elden Ring</li>
<li>Hogwarts Legacy</li>
<li>Minecraft</li>
<li>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3</li>
<li>Marvel's Spider-Man 2</li>
<li>Visions of Mana</li>
<li>Gundam Breaker 4</li>
<li>The Elder Scrolls Online</li>
<li>Helldivers 2</li>
<li>Mario Kart 8</li>
<li>Ghost of Tsushima</li>
<li>Sea of Thieves</li>
<li>MLB The Show 24</li>
<li>Forza Horizon 5</li>
<li>Gran Turismo 7</li>
<li>EA Sports FC 24</li>
</ol>
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41277228/playstation-plus-october-2024-dead-island-2-leads-spooky-lineup-of-14-games">PlayStation Plus October 2024: Dead Island 2 Leads Spooky Lineup Of 14 Games</a>
Photo: Shutterstock.

NTDOY

Sony Group Corporation American Depositary Shares

SONY

SQNXF

UBSFF

US Gaming Market Sees 7% Spending Decline In August: Madden NFL 25 Debut A Bright Spot

FIFA has announced a fresh partnership with Konami Group ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KONMY#OTC">KONMY</a>), marking the return of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">FIFAe World Cup tournament. </a>
This collaboration signals a significant shift, as the tournament will now feature Konami's free-to-play title eFootball, following the conclusion of FIFA's 29-year partnership with Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) in 2022.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/05/38823371/unpacking-the-future-of-sports-betting-gaming-esports">Unpacking The Future Of Sports Betting, Gaming, Esports</a>
Later this year, eFootball will host two FIFAe World Cup events, one on mobile and another on console. Qualifying matches start today, and they will crown champions at the end of each tournament.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">An Inclusive Global Competition</h3>
This year's tournament invites 18 nations to compete in the finals. These include Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, England, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea Republic, Malaysia, Morocco, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Thailand, and Türkiye.
&#8220;We are very pleased to be able to contribute to the promotion of eFootball in a new dimension through this collaboration with FIFAe. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to FIFA for providing us with this opportunity,&#8221; <a href="https://www.konami.com/games/corporate/en/news/release/20241010/">said</a> Koji Kobayashi, senior executive officer at Konami. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Konami's Ambitions In Esports</h3>
EFootball is the successor to Konami's long-running Pro Evolution Soccer series, which concluded after nearly three decades.
Since its pivot to a free-to-play model in 2019, eFootball has grown substantially, surpassing 700 million downloads worldwide. 
FIFA's Chief Business Officer Romy Gai stated: &#8220;We are incredibly excited to join forces with Konami. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to promote football globally and to provide a platform for players to showcase their skills. We truly believe in an inclusive ecosystem which allows different communities to be part of the FIFAe competitions.&#8221;
FIFA's exploration of esports partnerships has been on the rise. Earlier this year, the organization also announced a FIFAe World Cup tournament for Rocket League.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40295357/ttwos-ceo-on-fifa-license-its-not-as-simple-as-it-seems-the-voice-actor-strikes-long-term-impact">TTWO&#8217;s CEO On FIFA License &#8211; &#8216;It&#8217;s Not As Simple&#8217; As It Seems</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using photos from Shutterstock.

KONMY

FIFA Partners With Konami For eFootball FIFAe World Cup Revival

ICE-Q Gameplay Intelligence System, a Revamped Franchise Mode, Overhauled Presentation, and New HUT Innovations Deliver a Next-Generation Hockey Experience
Watch the Official Gameplay Trailer <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2Fhw0APrAqgDs%3Fsi%3DgR5zD2l-7QWZX0Fb&amp;esheet=54131617&amp;newsitemid=20241004797955&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=HERE&amp;index=1&amp;md5=012e94e4df93c8004829f53e4d781522">HERE</a>
Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) sets a new standard in hockey authenticity with EA SPORTS&#x2122; NHL&#xAE; 25, now available worldwide on PlayStation&#xAE;5 and Xbox Series X&#x7C;S. The new ICE-Q gameplay system gives players the time and space to control every inch of the ice, bringing a whole new level of hockey intelligence to EA SPORTS NHL. Plus, a revamped Franchise Mode, overhauled presentation with the all-new Grudge Match system as well as the integration of SAPIEN Technology improving character likenesses, NHL 25 is the truest representation of the sport.

EA SPORTS NHL 25 With ICE-Q Now Available Worldwide

TCEHY

TTWO

Tencent, Guillemot Family Are Said To Weigh Buyout Of Ubisoft

Nearly two years after Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) teased Project Rene, a new entry in The Sims series that many hoped would become The Sims 5, the excitement <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/23/03/31534627/when-innocent-play-turns-dangerous-the-uk-nhs-treats-child-gaming-addiction-that-can-lead-to-viole">has turned into frustration</a>. 
Following EA&#8217;s recent announcement that it has no plans for The Sims 5, new leaked screenshots from Project Rene have surfaced, revealing significant changes, IGN <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/the-sims-community-is-blowing-up-amid-project-rene-leaks-suggesting-big-changes-are-in-store">reported.</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Sims: New Features </h3>
Over the past week, various images from a recent playtest of Project Rene have circulated online, showcasing features like a to-do list, a chat box, and a small neighborhood to explore. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40927410/no-sims-5-ea-focuses-on-sims-4-expansion-ai-projects-margot-robbie-movie">No Sims 5? EA Focuses On Sims 4 Expansion, AI Projects, Margot Robbie Movie</a>
A notable addition is the ability to work at a cafe, which has drawn comparisons to The Sims Mobile, EA's 2018 title that included a similar mechanic and stopped receiving updates earlier this year.
Players quickly compared these recent images to earlier visuals of Project Rene, leading many to believe the game has been altered significantly. Critics argue that the new art style appears downgraded and that the game's scope seems limited, suggesting a shift towards a more mobile-friendly design.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">New images from &quot;Project Rene&quot; (which is NOT The Sims 5) <a href="https://t.co/hSkPSkokuk">pic.twitter.com/hSkPSkokuk</a>
&mdash; The Sims Nostalgia (@Sims_Nostalgia) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sims_Nostalgia/status/1840459070676836741?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Concerns Over Microtransactions</h3>
One of the most concerning revelations from the leaks is the introduction of a mobile-style coin tab, which appears to reward players for completing quests. 
These coins seem intended for purchasing outfits, raising concerns about potential <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/05/39120277/paving-the-way-for-microtransactions-the-sims-4-introduces-controversial-battle-pass-style-">microtransactions in the game.</a>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Y'all have to understand. The Sims team said that project Renee will be free to play. There is going to be a multiple micro transactions and this little icon specifically right here tells us everything we need to know about what their plans are for this game. <a href="https://t.co/mTDOvUiiqJ">pic.twitter.com/mTDOvUiiqJ</a>
&mdash; TheSimYin (@TheSimYin) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSimYin/status/1840899124956479636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Speculation On Development Changes</h3>
The contrast between the initial reveal of Project Rene and the latest leaks has led some players to speculate that the game may have been internally downsized or even scrapped in its previous vision. 
Initially introduced in 2022 as a free-to-play title featuring multiplayer elements inspired by games like Animal Crossing and Among Us, Project Rene was expected to refresh the series. However, the latest images suggest a very different direction, leaving fans disheartened.
EA currently has not provided a formal announcement regarding the game&#8217;s release date or official reveal. However, small, invite-only playtests have been ongoing since its announcement.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/23/04/31903137/eas-the-sims-4-breaks-records-with-over-70-million-players">EA&#8217;s The Sims 4 Breaks Records With Over 70 Million Players</a></li>
</ul>
Image credits: Shutterstock.

Leaked EA Project Rene Images Reveal Controversial Changes: Why The Sims Fans Are Furious

Ubisoft Updates Financial Targets For FY2024-25; Assassin's Creed Shadows Set For February 14, 2025 Release; Q2 FY2024-25 Net Bookings Expected Around €350-€370M

Consumers remained a pillar of support for the economy despite the high interest-rate environment that has prevailed since early 2022. With the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40965372/fed-delivers-large-interest-rate-cut-in-bid-to-sustain-labor-market-stocks-gold-set-new-record-h">Federal Reserve implementing a substantial 50 basis-point</a> rate cut, the benefits of which are expected to trickle down to them, consumers are forecasted to splurge on purchases this holiday season, according to early forecasts provided by Adobe on Wednesday.
Vibrant Spending: Consumer E-commerce spending will likely reach a record $240.8 billion from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, Adobe said. This included spending online, discounting, &#8216;Buy Now, Pay Later,&#8217; mobile shopping and more, it said. The forecast would mean an 8.4% year-over-year increase from the $221.8 billion spent in 2023, which saw a more modest 4.9% growth.
Electronics, apparel and furniture/home goods will account for the bulk of the spending. The firm&#8217;s analytics show spending on Black Friday &#8211; the Friday that follows the Thanksgiving Thursday, and Thanksgiving day will grow 9.9% and 8.7%, respectively. Cyber Monday online spending is expected to be up a more modest 6.1%.
Adobe expects discounts to peak at 30% this season, and drive over $2 billion in incremental online spending for retailers. The firm also said consumers will likely trade up to more expensive goods this season as opposed to the trend seen in recent months. Expensive goods will likely make up 19% of the share of the total online spending. In electronics, the share will likely be a steeper 58%.
Mobile shopping could make up 53.2% of total online spending and spending through BNPL could see another record this time. BNPL sales are expected to rise 11.4% to $18.5 billion, over 75% of this driven by mobile purchases.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-retail-stocks">Best Retail Stocks</a>
Best Time To Buy: This time around, discounts would be more spread out, with deals starting in October itself, Adobe said, adding that goods could trade up to 16% off the listed price in October. The discount could go up to 18% in November before the Cyber Week.
Hot Sellers: Among the most sought-after items are:
<ul>
<li> Bluey Ultimate Lights</li>
<li> Sounds Playhouse​</li>
<li> Slime Kits</li>
<li>Sony Group Corp.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNE#NYSE">SNE</a>) PlayStation 5</li>
<li>Madden NFL 25</li>
<li>Apple, Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/09/40971882/as-apples-iphone-16-goes-on-sale-analyst-says-demand-off-to-strong-start-keeping-cu">iPhone 16</a></li>
<li> ice cream maker Ninja Creami</li>
</ul>
Stock Implications: With most spending likely happening online, those retailers having a strong online presence could be the ones to benefit the most. Pureplay electronics retailers such as Best Buy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBY#NASDAQ">BBY</a>), Apple and Sony, e-commerce giant Amazon, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and retailers such as Walmart, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) and Costco Wholesale Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COST#NYSE">COST</a>) could also be preferred destination for buying consumer electronics goods. 
Madden NFL 25 is an American football video game developed by Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) Orlando and published by EA Sports. It could be bought on EA&#8217;s website, Amazon, or any other video game retailer.
BNPL stocks such as Affirm Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AFRM#NASDAQ">AFRM</a>), Block, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQ#NYSE">SQ</a>), and PayPal, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NASDAQ">PYPL</a>) could reap the benefit of rising interest in purchases via the BNPL route.
The Commerce Department&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40897882/retail-sales-rise-0-1-in-august-more-than-expected-boosting-odds-of-larger-fed-ra">retail sales report for August </a>released earlier this month showed an unexpected increase as weak auto &amp; auto parts sales were more than offset by strength in online sales, underlining the underlying strength. 
The SPDR S&amp;P Retail ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XRT#NYSE">XRT</a>) ended Tuesday&#8217;s session up 0.80% at $77.13 but it has lost about 0.8% for the year even as the broader market hovers at a record high. The Fed rate cuts &#8211; the one announced and the two more anticipated before the year-end, and the seasonally strong holiday season could bring these stocks back to favor in the near term.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/40984858/dont-miss-these-3-retail-stocks-for-fall-gains">Don&#8217;t Miss These 3 Retail Stocks for Fall Gains</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Unsplash

Retail Sales

Media

AFRM

AMZN

COST

PYPL

Top 10 Stock Picks For The Holiday Boom: Adobe Forecasts Unprecedented E-Commerce Sales This Season

Black Myth: Wukong soared to the top of the charts in August 2024, according to Newzoo, leading the revenue rankings across <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/gaming-industry">six major markets. </a>
This action RPG, rooted in Chinese mythology, took the number one spot for overall earnings in the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Spain and Italy highlighting its remarkable success in its debut month, GamesIndustry.biz <a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/black-myth-wukong-top-grossing-game-for-august-2024-newzoo-charts">reported.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40660800/is-sony-behind-black-myth-wukongs-xbox-delay-what-we-know">Is Sony Behind Black Myth: Wukong&#8217;s Xbox Delay? What We Know</a>
Not only did Black Myth: Wukong dominate these markets, but it also claimed the top position in the PC category. On Sony Group Corp.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) PlayStation, it was the third-highest-grossing title, only trailing behind Fortnite and Electronic Arts Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) EA Sports Madden NFL 25, showing that it performed strongly across multiple platforms. 
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The First Descendant Experiences Revenue Decline</h1>
While Black Myth: Wukong thrived, other games like The First Descendant saw less favorable trends. 
According to Newzoo&#8217;s August analysis, the game experienced a steep revenue decline from June to August. Despite initial success, the competitive market and new releases may have contributed to this downturn.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Popular Titles See Engagement Boosts</h1>
Several established titles saw significant gains in monthly active users (MAUs) during August. 
Fall Guys, Diablo 4 and World of Warcraft were among the games that witnessed notable increases in player activity. In particular, World of Warcraft saw its biggest MAU increase of 2024, climbing nine ranks in Newzoo's engagement chart.
Another major title, Warner Bros. Discovery Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, experienced a substantial boost in player engagement. This was largely due to its inclusion in the PlayStation Plus lineup and a 75% discount on Nintendo ADR&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) Nintendo Switch Store, which helped bring in new and returning players.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Top Games by Revenue And MAUs For August</h1>
Newzoo's report also highlighted the top-performing games by revenue across PC and consoles for August. While Black Myth: Wukong led the revenue rankings, other big names like Fortnite and Madden NFL 25 secured second and third spots respectively.
In terms of monthly active users, Fortnite, Microsoft Corp.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2/3/Warzone, and Minecraft dominated the top of the charts, maintaining their strong engagement among players across the six markets analyzed. 
Titles such as Diablo 4 also moved up significantly in the MAU rankings, driven by new updates that re-engaged the player base.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40905542/could-gta-6-be-pushed-to-2026-insights-from-former-rockstar-insider">Could GTA 6 Be Pushed To 2026? Insights From Former Rockstar Insider</a></li>
</ul>

Black Myth: Wukong's Big Debut Leads August Gaming Revenue Rankings

Benchmark analyst Mike Hickey reiterates Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) with a Buy and maintains $163 price target.

Benchmark Reiterates Buy on Electronic Arts, Maintains $163 Price Target

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed three bills on Tuesday aimed at curbing the use of artificial intelligence in creating misleading images or <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40912021/gavin-newsom-signs-laws-aimed-at-curbing-deepfakes-around-elections-critical-that-we-ensure-ai-is-no" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">videos in political advertisements</a>.
The&nbsp;Federal Trade Commission&nbsp;(FTC) alleges &#8220;big tech&#8221; makes little effort to inform social media users of privacy danger or allow <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/09/40946073/no-privacy-for-profits-sake-ftc-calls-out-amazon-meta-big-tech-for-exposing-users-to-host-of-harms" rel="noreferrer noopener">them to opt out of data collection</a>.
In its bid to create a domestic competitor to rival&nbsp;NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)&nbsp;in the artificial intelligence (AI) chip market, China is reportedly facing significant challenges due to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40940596/matching-nvidia-in-short-term-is-unlikely-analysts-predict-as-china-ramps-up-search-for-rivalling-je" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. sanctions and technological gaps</a>.
Gaming
Rockstar Games may delay GTA 6's anticipated 2025 release to 2026, according to former technical director Obbe Vermeij's insight. He suggests that a decision on whether to push back the release could be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40905542/could-gta-6-be-pushed-to-2026-insights-from-former-rockstar-insider" rel="noreferrer noopener">made by mid-2025, mirroring past delays</a>.
Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) stated that FC 25 early access starts on September 20, with a global release on September <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40906473/ea-sports-fc-25-when-and-where-to-play-early-access-global-launch-times" rel="noreferrer noopener">27 for all major consoles and PC</a>.
In an Investor Day event, Electronic Arts said it expects sustained growth in EA SPORTS and outlined plans for new business opportunities beyond gaming, including the EA SPORTS App. It described the EA SPORTS App as socially driven with sports content, live sports data, interactivity and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40910079/what-happened-with-electronic-arts-stock-today" rel="noreferrer noopener">gaming centered on global football</a>.&nbsp;
Sony Group Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) is set to bid farewell to 10 titles from its PlayStation Plus subscription service this month, with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40907983/september-playstation-plus-lineup-whats-coming-and-whats-leaving" rel="noreferrer noopener">LittleBigPlanet 3&nbsp;leading the pack</a>.
Sony has&nbsp;introduced&nbsp;a special 30th Anniversary Collection to mark <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40947591/playstation-celebrates-30-years-with-retro-themed-ps5-pro-and-slim-editions" rel="noreferrer noopener">three&nbsp;decades of PlayStation</a>.
Flappy Bird is making a comeback through the Flappy Bird Foundation, with plans to release a new version by 2025 across multiple platforms. The game&#8217;s original creator, Dong Nguyen, distances himself from the <a target="_blank" href="https://benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40885525/i-did-not-sell-anything-flappy-bird-creator-denounces-games-crypto-infused-comeback" rel="noreferrer noopener">project, stating he has no involvement</a>.
Blizzard's Diablo 4 has reportedly generated $150 million from in-game microtransactions <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40886670/blizzards-diablo-4-generates-150m-from-microtransactions-contributing-to-over-1b-in-sales" rel="noreferrer noopener">since its release in&nbsp;June 2023</a>.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40871056/larry-ellisons-daughters-gaming-company-hit-by-wave-of-mass-resignation-staff-walkout-amid-spinoff" rel="noreferrer noopener">Larry Ellison&#8217;s Daughter&#8217;s Gaming Company Hit By Wave Of Mass Resignation: Staff Walkout Amid Spinoff Failure</a>
Smartphones
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) announced a price increase for its battery replacement&nbsp;service for the&nbsp;iPhone 16 Pro&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40870767/apple-wants-you-to-pay-more-for-iphone-16-battery-replacement-heres-how-much-it-will-cost" rel="noreferrer noopener">and&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40870767/apple-wants-you-to-pay-more-for-iphone-16-battery-replacement-heres-how-much-it-will-cost" rel="noreferrer noopener">iPhone 16 Pro Max</a>.
Apple is experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand for its&nbsp;iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max&nbsp;models during the first weekend of pre-orders, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/09/40872864/apple-staring-at-lower-than-expected-demand-for-iphone-16-pro-and-pro-max-in-the-fi" rel="noreferrer noopener">top analyst&nbsp;Ming-Chi Kuo</a>.
Related: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40869770/no-razzle-dazzle-with-latest-iphone-but-apple-wowed-with-these-2-glowtime-announcements-says-gur" rel="noreferrer noopener">No &#8216;Razzle-Dazzle&#8217; With Latest iPhone, But Apple Wowed With These 2 &#8216;Glowtime&#8217; Announcements, Says Gurman</a>
Apple stated that iPhone production in India would hit 20% -25% by 2027, improving margins over time. AirPods and Apple Watch production outside China to exceed <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/09/40927849/apple-expands-beyond-china-to-india-southeast-asia-analyst-warns-of-margin-impact" rel="noreferrer noopener">50% by 2024 and 2027, respectively</a>.
The&nbsp;upcoming trifold smartphone&nbsp;from&nbsp;Huawei Technologies, China's top smartphone maker,&nbsp;is being listed for over $7,000 on online marketplaces, more than double its<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/09/40912367/huaweis-trifold-is-now-fetching-7-000-as-buyers-flip-apple-rivals-device-on-online-marketplaces-in-c" rel="noreferrer noopener"> list price, even before its official release</a>.
Technology
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) has reported that&nbsp;Russian cyber-influence operations&nbsp;are now targeting the&nbsp;Kamala Harris–Tim Walz&nbsp;campaign in the lead-up <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40912191/harris-walz-campaign-targeted-by-russian-hackers-microsoft-threat-analysis-center-notices-shift-in-t" rel="noreferrer noopener">to the 2024 presidential election</a>.
Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) announced the launch of more than 100 new open-source AI models and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40934797/alibaba-shares-rise-4-in-premarket-after-company-unveils-over-100-new-ai-models-and-text-to-video-to" rel="noreferrer noopener">introduced a text-to-video generation tool</a>.
ByeDance-owned&nbsp;TikTok, the widely-used social media platform for creating and sharing short-form videos, has <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40890877/tiktoks-future-hangs-in-balance-as-judges-express-skepticism-in-us-court-battle" rel="noreferrer noopener">encountered a doubtful panel of judges</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40914747/jpmorgan-ceo-jamie-dimon-thinks-social-media-platforms-like-tiktok-and-facebook-are-a-total-stupid-w" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon Thinks Social Media Platforms Like TikTok And Facebook Are &#8216;A Total Stupid Waste Of Time&#8217;</a>
Billionaire entrepreneur and "Shark Tank" star&nbsp;, Mark Cuban&nbsp;has shared a new patent that allows social media platforms and user profiles to sell <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40913939/mark-cuban-is-no-poster-boy-for-the-existing-patent-system-but-its-not-stopping-him-from-getting-his">advertisements of any media type</a>.
Elon Musk
Elon Musk has agreed with&nbsp;NVIDIA CEO&nbsp;Jensen Huang's prediction of a future where individuals will have personal digital agents akin to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40931686/elon-musk-agrees-with-nvidia-ceo-jensen-huangs-vision-of-a-future-where-well-have-our-own-ai-powered" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Star Wars' R2-D2</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40931686/elon-musk-agrees-with-nvidia-ceo-jensen-huangs-vision-of-a-future-where-well-have-our-own-ai-powered" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> or&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40931686/elon-musk-agrees-with-nvidia-ceo-jensen-huangs-vision-of-a-future-where-well-have-our-own-ai-powered" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C-3PO</a>.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40933824/nvidia-rival-amds-ceo-says-theres-no-one-size-fits-all-as-ai-chip-race-heats-up" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia Rival AMD&#8217;s CEO Says &#8216;There&#8217;s No One Size Fits All&#8217; As AI Chip Race Heats Up</a>
Musk's social media platform,&nbsp;X, formerly&nbsp;Twitter, had managed to temporarily bypass a&nbsp;ban in Brazil with the help of an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40932378/elon-musks-x-manages-to-dodge-brazil-ban-with-software-update-court-wants-an-explanation" rel="noreferrer noopener">automatic update of its software</a>.
Mark Cuban said he would be interested in acquiring&nbsp;Rupert&nbsp;Murdoch's Fox News and&nbsp;Elon Musk's X, formerly&nbsp;Twitter, but t<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40913939/mark-cuban-is-no-poster-boy-for-the-existing-patent-system-but-its-not-stopping-him-from-getting-his" rel="noreferrer noopener">here are certain hurdles involved</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40897716/elon-musk-reacts-after-mark-cuban-says-he-would-buy-x-in-a-heartbeat" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Reacts After Mark Cuban Says He Would Buy X &#8216;In A Heartbeat&#8217;</a>
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
ChatGPT-parent&nbsp;OpenAI&nbsp;has acknowledged that its latest model,&nbsp;known as "o1,"&nbsp;could potentially be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40870931/chatgpt-creator-openai-says-its-latest-models-pose-bioweapons-creation-risk-ai-giant-particularly-ca" rel="noreferrer noopener">misused for creating biological weapons</a>.
OpenAI&nbsp;has announced&nbsp;an independent board oversight committee focused on safety and security. It was established in response to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40890661/chatgpt-parent-openai-establishes-oversight-committee-for-safety-amid-recent-fears-of-biological-wea" rel="noreferrer noopener">ongoing security process controversies</a>.
Speaking at an Oracle Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) financial analysts meeting, co-founder and CTO of the tech giant,&nbsp;Larry Ellison&nbsp;predicted that&nbsp;artificial intelligence will eventually power <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40892284/oracles-larry-ellison-predicts-police-officers-will-be-supervised-at-all-times-and-citizens-will-be" rel="noreferrer noopener">extensive law enforcement surveillance systems</a>.
Microsoft&#8217;s LinkedIn, the professional networking giant, has come under scrutiny for reportedly using user data for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40931968/microsofts-linkedin-in-hot-water-for-allegedly-using-data-of-users-for-training-ai-before-updating-t" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI training before&nbsp;updating its terms of service</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40932928/billionaire-tech-ceo-says-not-to-bs-employees-they-are-too-smart-to-believe-ai-will-not-impact-their" rel="noreferrer noopener">Billionaire Tech CEO Says Not To &#8216;BS&#8217; Employees, They Are &#8216;Too Smart&#8217; To Believe AI Will Not Impact Their Jobs: &#8216;If You Think You&#8217;re Going To Try To Game This&#8230;&#8217;</a>

BABA

ORCL

Consumer Tech News (Sept 15-Sept 21): Russian Cyber-Influence Operations Targeting Harris–Walz campaign, Apple Raises Price For Battery Replacement & More

Roth MKM analyst Eric Handler maintains Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) with a Neutral and maintains $154 price target.

Roth MKM Maintains Neutral on Electronic Arts, Maintains $154 Price Target

Baird analyst Colin Sebastian maintains Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) with a Outperform and maintains $170 price target.

Baird Maintains Outperform on Electronic Arts, Maintains $170 Price Target

Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) is steering away from its traditional game release model, officially confirming that there will be <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/23/09/34544442/ea-drops-a-game-changer-the-sims-5-to-launch-as-free-download">no Sims 5. </a>
Instead, the company is doubling down on The Sims 4, continuing to expand the game while introducing new projects within the franchise. EA revealed this shift during its Investor Day 2024 event, as <a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/ea-to-disrupt-the-sequel-model-by-dropping-sequential-release-for-the-sims">reported</a> by GamesIndustry.biz.
EA's President of Entertainment and Technology, Laura Miele, made it clear that the company is &#8220;disrupting the sequel model&#8221; in favor of a more expansive vision. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/05/39120277/paving-the-way-for-microtransactions-the-sims-4-introduces-controversial-battle-pass-style-">Paving The Way For Microtransactions? The Sims 4 Introduces Controversial Battle Pass-Style Events</a>
"Traditionally, after every release we would replace one version with another, starting from scratch. Well, we are going to disrupt the sequel model. We are investing in a massive Sims platform," she said.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Project Rene And The Future Of The Sims Universe</h3>
While The Sims 5 has been scrapped, EA assured fans that the previously announced Project Rene is still in development, with a closed multiplayer test slated for this autumn. Though Project Rene had initially been speculated to be the next Sims installment, it's now positioned as part of what EA calls &#8220;The Sims universe.&#8221; 
"The Sims 4 will be the foundation of our future growth strategy," Miele elaborated. "It will carry forward the tremendous engagement and volumes of content." 
She also noted that EA would be updating the game&#8217;s core technology while continuing to release fresh and engaging content. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Sims Movie In Development</h3>
Moreover, fans of The Sims will soon have more than just gameplay to look forward to. EA has officially confirmed that a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/03/37883653/margot-robbie-smashed-the-box-office-with-barbie-now-shes-set-to-bring-bestselling-video-ga">film adaptation of The Sims is in the works</a>, in partnership with Amazon.com Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Amazon MGM Studios. 
Margot Robbie's production company, LuckyChap, will produce the film, with Kate Herron, known for her work on Loki, set to direct.
EA's Vice President and General Manager of The Sims, Kate Gorman, promised that the film would provide an &#8220;authentic Sims experience.&#8221; 
In an <a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/the-sims-movie-plot-details-amazon-ea-margot-robbie-1236142126/">interview </a>with Variety, Gorman said: &#8220;What we want is to have a truly authentic Sims experience brought to a theatrical release.&#8221; 
&#8220;We wanted the right partners, and to make an impact the size of something like a Barbie movie is exactly what we want,&#8221; she added.
The movie will feature plenty of Easter eggs for longtime fans, including the recurring &#8220;Freezer Bunnies&#8221; and possibly a pool without a ladder. W
On the possibility of the movie being entirely in the game's fictional language, Simlish, Gorman responded positively to the idea, calling it "fun" and noting that it's "something we'll definitely talk about."
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">AI At The Core Of EA&#8217;s Future</h3>
In addition to expanding the Sims universe, EA also revealed its increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its game development process, Eurogamer <a href="https://www.eurogamer.net/ai-is-the-very-core-of-our-business-says-ea-ceo">reported.</a>
CEO Andrew Wilson stated that AI is &#8220;the very core of our business,&#8221; noting that EA currently has over 100 &#8220;active novel AI projects&#8221; to support and streamline game development.
Wilson highlighted how AI is being used across three categories: efficiency, expansion, and transformation. The company aims to create deeper, more intelligent characters and storylines, while also using AI to enhance the player experience. 
For example, The Sims' forthcoming central platform will use AI to allow players to search for in-game assets through photos rather than text, adding a layer of personalization to the gameplay.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/40027903/is-ai-in-gaming-overhyped-cloud-executive-for-tech-giant-weighs-in-large-scale-application-will-">Is AI In Gaming Overhyped? Cloud Executive For Tech Giant Weighs In: &#8216;Large-Scale Application Will Still Take Some Time&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

No Sims 5? EA Focuses On Sims 4 Expansion, AI Projects, Margot Robbie Movie

During the last three months, 22 analysts shared their evaluations of Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>), revealing diverse outlooks from bullish to bearish.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">9</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">7</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Insights from analysts' 12-month price targets are revealed, presenting an average target of $161.77, a high estimate of $183.00, and a low estimate of $150.00. This current average reflects an increase of 5.77% from the previous average price target of $152.95. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726682419_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination</h2>
A clear picture of Electronic Arts's perception among financial experts is painted with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Brian Nowak</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Benjamin Soff</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Hickey</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$163.00</td>
<td>$163.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Doug Creutz</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$183.00</td>
<td>$163.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Omar Dessouky</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Hickey</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$163.00</td>
<td>$153.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Marok</td>
<td>Raymond James</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick McKay</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$162.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Crum</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$167.00</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Sheridan</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$143.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colin Sebastian</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Pitz</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$154.00</td>
<td>$154.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Handler</td>
<td>Roth MKM</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$152.00</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Nowak</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Hickey</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$153.00</td>
<td>$153.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Crum</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$163.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Martin Yang</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Karnovsky</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$148.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Bazinet</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$161.00</td>
<td>$148.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Timothy O'Shea</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Crum</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$163.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Martin Yang</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Electronic Arts. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Electronic Arts compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Electronic Arts's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of Electronic Arts's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EA/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Electronic Arts analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know Electronic Arts Better</h2>
EA is one of the world's largest third-party video game publishers and has transitioned from a console-based video game publisher to the one of the largest publishers on consoles, PC, and mobile. The firm owns number of large franchises, including Madden, EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA), Battlefield, Apex Legends, Mass Effect, Dragon's Age, and Need for Speed.
<h3>A Deep Dive into Electronic Arts's Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: With an elevated market capitalization, the company stands out above industry averages, showcasing substantial size and market acknowledgment.
Revenue Growth: Electronic Arts's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has faced challenges. As of 30 June, 2024, the company experienced a revenue decline of approximately -13.72%. This indicates a decrease in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Communication Services sector.
Net Margin: Electronic Arts's net margin falls below industry averages, indicating challenges in achieving strong profitability. With a net margin of 16.87%, the company may face hurdles in effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Electronic Arts's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 3.76% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Electronic Arts's ROA is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 2.14%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Debt Management: Electronic Arts's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.26, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Beyond their standard evaluations, some analysts contribute predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, furnishing investors with additional guidance. Users of analyst ratings should be mindful that this specialized advice is shaped by human perspectives and may be subject to variability.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Where Electronic Arts Stands With Analysts

Morgan Stanley analyst Brian Nowak maintains Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) with a Equal-Weight and maintains $150 price target.

Morgan Stanley Maintains Equal-Weight on Electronic Arts, Maintains $150 Price Target

Deutsche Bank analyst Benjamin Soff maintains Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) with a Hold and maintains $160 price target.

Deutsche Bank Maintains Hold on Electronic Arts, Maintains $160 Price Target

Brian Pitz, an analyst from BMO Capital, reiterated the Buy rating on Electronic Arts (EA – Research Report). The associated price target remains t...

Strong Q1 Performance and Promising Game Releases Drive Buy Rating for EA

Oppenheimer analyst Martin Yang maintained a Buy rating on Electronic Arts (EA – Research Report) today and set a price target of $170.00. The comp...

Oppenheimer Sticks to Their Buy Rating for Electronic Arts (EA)

ONEV: Not Really A Low-Volatility ETF

As the metaverse gains momentum, investments in computing power and AI chips enhance gaming experiences, driving demand and making the video games market a compelling investment opportunity with significant growth potential. To that end, let's analyze the fundamentals of two must-watch video game stocks: Tencent Holdings (TCEHY) and Electronic Arts (EA). Keep reading... Investments in computing power and AI chips are enhancing the metaverse experience and driving demand for interactive games, making the video game sector a compelling investment opportunity. Therefore, investors should consider keeping an eye on strong video game stocks like Tencent Holdings Limited (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/TCEHY/">TCEHY</a>) and Electronic Arts Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">EA</a>), as the metaverse gains momentum.
This year, Metaverse Gaming is booming due to consumer demand for immersive experiences, advancements in VR/AR technologies, blockchain integration, a strong gaming culture, increasing incomes, and accelerated adoption of digital entertainment post-COVID-19. The market is projected to achieve a remarkable <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/amo/metaverse/metaverse-gaming/worldwide">CAGR of 41.64% from 2024 to 2030</a>, reaching an estimated volume of $168.4 billion by 2030.
Likewise, AI enhances user engagement and content creation in virtual worlds, transforming the gaming industry. It empowers smaller studios to develop expansive game worlds with high-quality graphics and dynamic content in the metaverse. As a result, the video game market is projected to generate $282.30 billion, with a CAGR of <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/digital-media/video-games/worldwide">8.76% through 2027</a>, reaching an estimated market volume of $363.20 billion.
Furthermore, the growth of mobile gaming and the rise of e-sports have boosted market optimism. Considering these favorable trends, let's examine the fundamentals of two video game stock picks.
Tencent Holdings Limited (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/TCEHY/">TCEHY</a>)
Headquartered in Shenzhen, People's Republic of China, TCEHY is an investment holding company that offers value-added services (VAS), online advertising, fintech, and business services internationally. It operates through VAS, Online Advertising, FinTech, Business Services, and Others segments.
In terms of the trailing-12-month Return on Common Equity, TCEHY's 18.64% is 467.5% higher than the 3.28% industry average. Likewise, its 30.44% trailing-12-month <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/ebit.asp">EBIT</a> margin is 230.3% higher than the 9.21% industry average. Furthermore, its 24.23% trailing-12-month net income margin is 683.4% higher than the 3.09% industry average.
In the second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, TCEHY's total revenues increased 8% year-over-year to RMB161.12 billion ($22.78 billion). Its gross profit grew 21.3% from the prior year's quarter to RMB85.90 billion ($12.14 billion).
For the same quarter, the company's non-IFRS profit attributable to equity holders of the company rose 52.6% year-over-year to RMB57.30 billion ($8.10 billion). Also, its EPS for profit attributable to equity holders of the company stood at RMB6.01, up 85.3% over the prior-year quarter.
For the quarter ended September 30, 2024, TCEHY's EPS and revenue are expected to increase 37.6% and 12.5% year-over-year to $0.88 and $24 billion, respectively. It surpassed the Street EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. Over the past nine months, TCEHY's stock has gained 66.9% to close the last trading session at $62.35.
TCEHY's bright prospects are reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. It has an overall rating of B, equating to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings assess stocks by 118 different factors, each with its own weighting.
It has an A grade for Stability and a B grade for Sentiment. It is ranked #6 out of 38 stocks in the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/china/">China</a> industry. To access the additional grades of TCEHY for Growth, Value, Momentum, and Quality, <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/TCEHY/">click here</a>.
Electronic Arts Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">EA</a>)
EA develops, markets, publishes, and distributes games, content, and services for game consoles, PCs, mobile phones, and tablets worldwide. It develops and publishes games and services across various genres, such as sports, racing, first-person shooter, action, role-playing, and simulation, and licenses games from others.
On October 4, 2024, EA announced the global release of EA SPORTS NHL 25. The game features a new ICE-Q gameplay system, an improved Franchise Mode, and enhanced presentation, providing an immersive hockey experience on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X&#x7C;S.
On September 27, 2024, EA launched EA SPORTS FC 25, introducing new gameplay features like Rush and FC IQ. For the first time, women's football was added to Career Mode. The event was celebrated worldwide by cover stars, enhancing the game's social experience.
In terms of the trailing-12-month net income margin, EA's 15.77% is 410% higher than the 3.09% industry average. Likewise, its 9.06% trailing-12-month Return on Total Assets is 640.5% higher than the industry average of 1.22%. Furthermore, the stock's 19.22% trailing-12-month levered FCF margin is 140.6% higher than the industry average of 7.99%.
For the first quarter that ended June 30, 2024, EA's total net revenue and gross profit stood at $1.66 billion and $1.40 billion, respectively. Similarly, the company's income came in at $364 million. Moreover, its net income was $280 million, or $1.04 per share.
Analysts expect EA's EPS for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, to increase 10% year-over-year to $2.01. Likewise, its revenue for the same quarter is expected to increase 11.5% year-over-year to $2.03 billion. Over the past year, the stock has gained 16.2% to close the last trading session at $142.90.
It's no surprise that EA has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary POWR Ratings system.
It has a B grade for Quality. It is ranked #4 out of 18 stocks in the B-rated <a href="Entertainment%20-%20Toys%20&amp;%20Video%20Games">Entertainment - Toys &amp; Video Games</a> industry. Beyond what we stated above, we also have given EA grades for Growth, Value, Momentum, Stability, and Sentiment. Get all EA ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">here</a>.
What To Do Next?
43 year investment veteran, Steve Reitmeister, has just released his 2024 market outlook along with trading plan and top 11 picks for the year ahead.
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/sign-up/stock-market-outlook-2024/?formplacement=artbotad_smo24_rep">2024 Stock Market Outlook &gt;</a>

<hr />
TCEHY shares were trading at $56.76 per share on Tuesday afternoon, down $5.59 (-8.97%). Year-to-date, TCEHY has gained 51.32%, versus a 21.63% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Abhishek Bhuyan</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/ABhuyan.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Abhishek embarked on his professional journey as a financial journalist due to his keen interest in discerning the fundamental factors that influence the future performance of financial instruments.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=abhishek-bhuyan">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/tcehy-ea-2-video-game-stocks-to-watch-as-the-metaverse-gains/>2 Video Game Stocks to Watch as the Metaverse Gains Momentum</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

2 Video Game Stocks to Watch as the Metaverse Gains Momentum

The gaming market is thriving due to the growth of mobile gaming, the rise of e-sports, AI integration, and AR/VR technologies, which are driving significant revenue and user engagement. To that end, let's analyze the investment prospects of gaming stocks that one shouldn't miss this October: Electronic Arts (EA) and Playtika Holding (PLTK). Keep reading... The gaming market is experiencing remarkable growth, particularly in mobile gaming, which, along with the rise of e-sports and gaming tournaments, is fueling the sector's success. Given this backdrop, investors may not want to miss strong gaming stocks like Electronic Arts Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">EA</a>) and Playtika Holding Corp. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PLTK/">PLTK</a>) in October.
The integration of AI in gaming is transforming the industry, enabling smaller studios to craft expansive game worlds with high-quality graphics and dynamic content. Additionally, the rise of AR and VR technologies is fostering immersive and interconnected experiences, further driving sector growth and meeting evolving consumer demands.
This year, the video game market is expected to generate <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/digital-media/video-games/worldwide">$282.30 billion in revenue</a>, with an annual growth rate of 8.76% projected through 2027, leading to an estimated market volume of $363.20 billion. This growth is fueled by increasing companies focused on mobile and online gaming, along with improved internet access and faster 5G connectivity.
Furthermore, the growth of gaming tournaments is playing a crucial role in the industry's expansion by drawing large audiences and boosting investments in infrastructure and talent development. In the United States, the 'Games' segment is expected to gain <a href="https://www.statista.com/forecasts/1277728/physical-or-digital-core-gamers-in-the-us">27.8 million users (+13.78%)</a> between 2024 and 2029, making it an attractive opportunity for investors now.
Considering these conducive trends, let's examine the fundamentals of the two stocks from the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/entertainment-video-games/">Entertainment - Toys &amp; Video Games</a> industry, starting with number two.
Stock #2: Electronic Arts Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">EA</a>)
EA develops, markets, publishes, and distributes games, content, and services for game consoles, PCs, mobile phones, and tablets worldwide. It develops and publishes games and services across various genres, such as sports, racing, first-person shooter, action, role-playing, and simulation, and licenses games from others.
On October 4, 2024, EA announced the worldwide launch of EA SPORTS NHL 25, featuring the new ICE-Q gameplay system, a revamped Franchise Mode, and enhanced presentation, delivering an immersive hockey experience on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X&#x7C;S.
On September 27, 2024, EA launched EA SPORTS FC 25, featuring new gameplay innovations like Rush and FC IQ, and introducing women's football to Career Mode for the first time. Cover stars celebrated the event globally, enhancing the game's social experience.
In terms of the trailing-12-month net income margin, EA's 15.77% is 403.4% higher than the 3.13% industry average. Likewise, its 9.06% trailing-12-month Return on Total Assets is 609.3% higher than the industry average of 1.28%. Furthermore, the stock's 19.22% trailing-12-month <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/l/levered-free-cash-flow.asp">levered FCF</a> margin is 139.5% higher than the industry average of 8.02%.
For the first quarter that ended June 30, 2024, EA's total net revenue and gross profit stood at $1.66 billion and $1.40 billion, respectively. Similarly, the company's income came in at $364 million. Moreover, its net income was $280 million, or $1.04 per share.
Analysts expect EA's EPS for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, to increase 10% year-over-year to $2.01. Likewise, its revenue for the same quarter is expected to increase 11.5% year-over-year to $2.03 billion. Over the past year, the stock has gained 18.9% to close the last trading session at $142.18.
It's no surprise that EA has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/RYAAY/">POWR Ratings</a> system. The POWR ratings assess stocks by 118 different factors, each with its own weighting.
It has a B grade for Quality. It is ranked #4 out of 18 stocks in the B-rated <a href="Entertainment%20-%20Toys%20&amp;%20Video%20Games">Entertainment - Toys &amp; Video Games</a> industry. Beyond what we stated above, we also have given EA grades for Growth, Value, Momentum, Stability, and Sentiment. Get all EA ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">here</a>.
Stock #1: Playtika Holding Corp. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PLTK/">PLTK</a>)
Headquartered in Herzliya Pituach, Israel, PLTK develops mobile games in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and internationally. The company owns a portfolio of casual and social casino-themed games. It distributes its games to end customers through various web and mobile platforms, as well as direct-to-consumer platforms.
On September 18, 2024, PLTK announced its acquisition of SuperPlay for $700 million, with potential additional payments of up to $1.25 billion based on performance. This strategic move aims to enhance PLTK's mobile gaming portfolio by leveraging SuperPlay's proven expertise and successful titles.
In terms of the trailing-12-month gross profit margin, PLTK's 72.52% is 40.3% higher than the 51.69% industry average. Similarly, its 0.85x trailing-12-month asset turnover ratio is 69.8% higher than the industry average of 0.50x. Its 13.83% trailing-12-month Return on Total Capital is 271.2% higher than the industry average of 3.73%.
During the fiscal second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, PLTK's revenues amounted to $627 million. The company's income from operations increased 1.1% year-over-year to $140.70 million. For the same quarter, the company's net income stood at $86.60 million, with net income per share attributable to common shareholders at $0.23, up 14.4% and 9.5% year-over-year.
For the quarter ended September 30, 2024, PLTK's EPS is expected to increase 77.1% year-over-year to $0.18, and its revenue for the quarter ending December 31, 2024, is expected to grow marginally year-over-year to $642.71 million. Over the past six months, PLTK's stock has gained 8% to close the last trading session at $7.74.
PLTK's bright prospects are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall A rating, which translates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary system.
It has an A grade for Value and a B for Stability and Quality. It is ranked #2 in the  Entertainment - Toys &amp; Video Games industry. To access PLTK's grades for Growth, Momentum, and Sentiment, <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PLTK/">click here</a>.
What To Do Next?
Discover 10 widely held stocks that our proprietary model shows have tremendous downside potential. Please make sure none of these "death trap" stocks are lurking in your portfolio:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/10-stocks-to-sell/?formplacement=artbotad_10sell">10 Stocks to SELL NOW! &gt;</a>
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Abhishek Bhuyan</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/ABhuyan.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Abhishek embarked on his professional journey as a financial journalist due to his keen interest in discerning the fundamental factors that influence the future performance of financial instruments.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=abhishek-bhuyan">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/ea-pltk-2-gaming-stocks-you-shouldnt-miss-in-october/>2 Gaming Stocks You Shouldn't Miss in October</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

2 Gaming Stocks You Shouldn't Miss in October

Goldman's High Growth Investment ratio stocks: EA, AMZN, FANG, etc

The convergence of augmented reality and eSports is setting the stage for a new era in gaming. Therefore, investors looking for an opportunity to invest in this evolution might consider investing in gaming stocks, Electronic Arts (EA), Playtika Holding Corp. (PLTK), and DoubleDown Interactive (DDI). Continue reading… The gaming industry is undergoing a transformation driven by the rise of Augmented Reality (AR) and the booming popularity of eSports. The widespread global appeal of video games will likely continue, allowing top game companies multiple opportunities to draw new players and boost sales in developed and growing markets.
Amid this backdrop, investors looking to capitalize on the trend may not want to miss the opportunity to invest in strong gaming stocks like Electronic Arts Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">EA</a>), Playtika Holding Corp. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PLTK/">PLTK</a>), and DoubleDown Interactive Co., Ltd. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDI/">DDI</a>).
The video game industry is a titan in the global entertainment and media (E&amp;M) sector, with more and more companies focusing on subscription-based models and cloud gaming platforms. This digital shift in the video gaming sector is continuing to gain momentum, with publishers taking home <a href="https://www.pwc.com/us/en/tech-effect/emerging-tech/emerging-technology-trends-in-the-gaming-industry.html">$136 billion of the $262 billion</a> video game market, where PC &amp; console and mobile capture $48 billion and $87 billion, respectively.
With technological advancements reshaping the gaming industry, analysts expect this sector to thrive over the next decade. The <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/digital-media/video-games/worldwide">global video games market</a> is projected to reach a volume of $363.20 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.8%. Further, the augmented reality gaming market is anticipated to reach $43.34 billion by 2031, <a href="https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/augmented-reality-gaming-market/">growing at a CAGR of 21.9%</a>.
Moreover, eSports, an organized and competitive video gaming industry, has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting casual and hardcore gamers. According to <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/490480/global-esports-audience-size-viewer-type/">Statista</a> reports, by 2025, the number of viewers for eSports is expected to be over 318 million.
Considering these encouraging trends, let's take a look at the fundamentals of the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/entertainment-video-games/">Entertainment - Toys &amp; Video Games</a> industry stocks, beginning with the third choice.
Stock #3: Electronic Arts Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">EA</a>)
EA is a digital interactive entertainment company that develops, markets, publishes, and distributes games, content, and services for game consoles, PCs, mobile phones, and tablets worldwide. It develops and publishes games and services across various genres, such as sports, racing, first-person shooter, action, role-playing, and simulation.
On October 4, EA globally launched EA SPORTS NHL 25, featuring the new ICE-Q gameplay system, a revamped Franchise Mode with enhanced presentation, delivering an engaging hockey experience on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X&#x7C;S.
In the fiscal first quarter that ended on June 30, 2024, EA's revenue and <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/grossprofit.asp">gross profit</a> stood at $1.66 billion and $1.40 billion, respectively. The company's net income came in at $280 million, while its earnings per share stood at $1.04 for the period.
According to the business outlook for fiscal year 2025, the company's net revenue is projected to be between $7.10 billion and $7.50 billion, with operating cash flow anticipated to range from $2.05-$2.25 billion. EA anticipates its net income to fall between $904 million and $1.09 billion.
Street expects EA's revenue for the fiscal second quarter (ended September 2024) to increase 11.5% year-over-year to $2.03 billion. Its EPS for the same period is expected to register a 10% growth from the prior year, settling at $2.01.
EA's stock has surged 14.9% over the past six months and 10.8% over the past year to close the last trading session at $144.35.
EA's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect this robust outlook. The stock has an overall rating of B, which equates to Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
EA has a B grade for Sentiment and Quality. It is ranked #5 out of 18 stocks in the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/entertainment-video-games/">Entertainment - Toys &amp; Video Games</a> industry. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EA/">Click here</a> to see the additional ratings for EA (Growth, Value, Momentum, and Stability).
Stock #2: Playtika Holding Corp. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PLTK/">PLTK</a>)
Headquartered in Herzliya Pituach, Israel, PLTK is a mobile game developer. The company owns a portfolio of 15 casual and social casino-themed games. It distributes its games to end customers through various web and mobile platforms and direct-to-consumer platforms.
On September 18, PLTK agreed to acquire SuperPlay, a mobile gaming company, for $700 million, with potential additional payments of up to $1.25 billion based on performance. This agreement should strengthen PLTK's leadership and enhance its mobile gaming portfolio by leveraging SuperPlay's proven expertise and successful titles. 
PLTK's revenue for the second quarter (ended June 30, 2024) came in at $627 million. Its income from operations grew marginally from the prior year's quarter to $140.70 million. The company's net income amounted to $86.60 million and $0.23 per share, reflecting 14.4% and 9.5% year-over-year increases, respectively.
As per the fiscal year 2024 financial outlook, PLTK forecasts revenue to range between $2.52 billion and $2.62 billion. The company also expects credit adjusted EBITDA to be between $730 million and $770 million.
Analysts expect PLTK's revenue for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2024, to increase marginally year-over-year to $642.71 million, while its EPS for the same period is expected to grow 72.1% from the prior-year quarter to $0.17.
Over the past six months, the stock has gained 9.9%, closing the last trading session at $7.56.
PLTK's bright prospects are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of A, which translates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
It also has an A grade for Value and a B for Stability, Sentiment, and Quality. Within the same B-rated industry, it is ranked #2. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PLTK/">Click here</a> to see PLTK's ratings for Growth and Momentum.
Stock #1: DoubleDown Interactive Co., Ltd. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDI/">DDI</a>)
Based in Seoul, South Korea, DDI is principally engaged in developing and supplying online games. The company offers DoubleDown Casino, DoubleDown Classic, DoubleDown Fort Knox, and Undead World: Hero Survival games.
For the second quarter of 2024, which ended on June 30, DDI's revenue increased 17.4% year-over-year to $88.24 million. Its operating income from operations stood at $36.19 million, indicating a 31.5% growth from the prior year's quarter.
DDI's net income rose 36.6% from the year-ago value to $33.27 million and its EPS stood at $0.97, up 36.2% year-over-year. It reported an adjusted EBITDA of $37 million, indicating a 34.1% growth from the prior year quarter with a margin of 41.9% (up 520 bps year-over-year).
The consensus revenue estimate of $83.93 million for the fiscal third quarter (ended September 2024) represents a 15% increase year-over-year. The consensus EPS estimate of $0.56 for the same quarter indicates a 2.8% improvement year-over-year. The company has an impressive earnings surprise history; it surpassed the consensus EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
The stock has surged 98.9% year-to-date and 57.4% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $14.62.
DDI's strong fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. It has an overall rating of A, which equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
It has an A grade for Value, Sentiment, and Quality and a B for Growth. The stock is ranked first in the Entertainment - Toys &amp; Video Games industry. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDI/">Click here</a> to access the additional DDI ratings (Momentum and Stability).
What To Do Next?
43 year investment veteran, Steve Reitmeister, has just released his 2024 market outlook along with trading plan and top 11 picks for the year ahead.
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/sign-up/stock-market-outlook-2024/?formplacement=artbotad_smo24_rep">2024 Stock Market Outlook &gt;</a>

<hr />
EA shares were trading at $145.25 per share on Monday afternoon, up $0.90 (+0.62%). Year-to-date, EA has gained 6.60%, versus a 23.77% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: ShreyaRathi</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/0.jpeg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;"><a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=shreya-rathi">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/ea-pltk-ddi-3-gaming-stocks-to-watch-as-ar-and-esports-revolutionize/>3 Gaming Stocks to Watch as AR and eSports Revolutionize Entertainment</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

3 Gaming Stocks to Watch as AR and eSports Revolutionize Entertainment

"Game On" is The Fly's weekly recap of the stories powering up or beating down video game stocks. NEW RELEASES: This week's biggest release is Acti...

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