Ubisoft Shareholder Protests at Paris HQ, Alleges Hidden Talks with Microsoft, EA on IP Acquisition

A minority shareholder in Ubisoft, AJ Investments, led by CEO Juraj Krúpa, is organizing a protest outside the company's Paris headquarters. They accuse Ubisoft of mismanagement and a lack of transparency, particularly regarding alleged discussions with Microsoft, EA, and other publishers interested in acquiring its franchises. Krúpa claims that Ubisoft has not disclosed these discussions or a partnership with the Saudi investment firm Savvy Group for an Assassin's Creed Mirage DLC.

Krúpa criticizes Ubisoft's management for "horrible mismanagement," citing declining shareholder value, poor operational execution, and failure to adapt to market trends. He also points to the repeated delays of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, initially planned for July 18, 2024, then November 15, 2024, and finally set for March 20, 2025. These delays, according to Krúpa, led to severe stock declines that primarily harmed retail investors while benefiting institutional investors like Credit Agricole, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and others.

AJ Investments is calling on all frustrated Ubisoft investors to join the May protest, aiming to pressure the company into taking decisive action to improve shareholder value. They are aware of Ubisoft's ongoing financial review of strategic options, advised by Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan, and expect results soon. If these results enhance shareholder value, AJ Investments will cancel the demonstration.

Krúpa emphasizes the need for Ubisoft to maximize value, operate transparently, and be accountable to its shareholders. He warns that AJ Investments is prepared to sue Ubisoft for misleading investors. This is not the first time AJ Investments has called for Ubisoft to go private, having previously urged the company to change its leadership and consider a sale following the disappointing release of Star Wars Outlaws and a subsequent plunge in share price.

IGN has reached out to Ubisoft for comment on these allegations.

For years, Ubisoft has faced challenges, including high-profile flops, layoffs, studio closures, game cancellations, and numerous delays. Rumors continue about potential proposals the board is considering, with some suggesting Tencent's reluctance to invest further due to the Guillemot family's desire to retain control. Without Tencent, few companies have the resources to help Ubisoft recover from its current state.