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The statement echoed comments that EA managers made last month at a conference call with financial analysts. EA said at the time it wanted to "keep all its options open regarding this investment in Ubisoft and could buy more Ubisoft shares, possibly a controlling stake".
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Ubisoft shares have gained over 80 percent since EA bought the stake on Dec. 20, sparking speculation it could launch a bid. They closed Wednesday at 31.68 euros.
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The French video games maker has vowed to stay independent and has dismissed EA's approach as hostile until it gets more information.
http://www.fool.com/News/mft/2005/mft05010615.htm
To make things more interesting, Ubisoft has declared the bid hostile and reportedly had also contacted French media giant Vivendi Universal (NYSE: V) about a possible merger to thwart any takeover attempt from EA.
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There's no question that EA would be interested in owning Ubisoft outright. Ubisoft's game portfolio includes hits such as Splinter Cell and Prince of Persia and would clearly augment EA's non-sports lineup. In addition, EA's marketing power would augment the value of those games. And with $2.5 billion in cash on the balance sheet, EA can afford it.
