ByteDance is reportedly in advanced negotiations to sell its Shanghai-based gaming subsidiary, Moonton, to Saudi-backed Savvy Games Group. The potential deal is valued at an estimated $6 billion to $7 billion, capturing the attention of the global gaming industry.
Moonton is the developer behind the globally popular mobile game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. The title has amassed over 1 billion registered users across 135 countries and regions, with more than 60% of its revenue generated in Southeast Asia. It has also been a featured esports title at the Southeast Asian Games for three consecutive years.
Savvy Games Group, established in 2021 and wholly owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) , is aggressively expanding its global footprint. Acquiring Moonton would mark a strategic entry into the lucrative Asian mobile gaming market, aligning with PIF's broader vision to position Saudi Arabia as a major gaming hub.
While terms are reportedly taking shape, no official confirmation has been issued by ByteDance, Moonton, or Savvy Games Group. If finalized, the transaction would signal a significant pivot for ByteDance away from gaming toward its core business priorities.
ICgoodFind : ByteDance's potential exit from Moonton at a multi-billion valuation reflects the intensifying M&A activity in gaming. For Savvy, it's a direct play for Southeast Asia's mobile gaming crown jewel, further consolidating the global esports landscape under Gulf capital.
