Guillemot Discusses Potential EA Takeover of Ubisoft

Yves Guillemot, CEO of Ubisoft, has previously been adamantly against a possible takeover of his company by Electronic Arts, but may be softening his attitude regarding the idea. Comments made by Guillemot to French paper Les Echos and re-published by consumer game site GameSpot indicate that Guillemot is coming to accept the eventuality of a takeover bid from the American software giant. "We are not safe from a hostile action from Electronic Arts, which it would be difficult to block if they make a genuinely interesting offer," said Guillemot. However, the CEO made it clear that if EA expects to purchase the French developer, the acquisition will come at a steep price: Guillemot said that Ubisoft has "clearly demonstrated its value to industry players." "If somebody is interested in our competitive advantages and this person is willing to pay for those at their right price," said Guillemot, "then we will choose what is best for our shareholders and our employees." Ubisoft's French-traded share price initially rose after the news hit, but ended down over 2% at 41.50 euros ($50.44).