GTA 6 Launch May Shift UAE Retail Spending and Boost Take-Two, Sony

The launch of Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) could temporarily redirect consumer spending across the UAE, as gamers prepare for the title’s first simultaneous release in the country and international markets.

Josh Gilbert, market analyst for APAC and the Middle East at eToro, said the release could also lead to increased annual leave and sick-day requests from fans who have waited years for a new instalment.

With the game priced at about AED 300, some discretionary spending could move away from malls, cinemas and White Friday promotions later this month. Gilbert pointed to Take-Two Interactive’s comments about softer NBA 2K sales as evidence that some players may have delayed purchases while saving for GTA 6.

Take-Two, the game’s parent company, and Sony are expected to be among the main corporate beneficiaries. GTA 5 generated $1B in global sales within three days of its 2013 release, and analysts expect the new title to surpass that performance.

Sony could gain from the game’s console-only launch and PlayStation’s share of digital sales, according to Gilbert. Sony shares have also risen close to 13% over the past month, he said.

Source: Arabian Business