Zynga shares spike after new CEO named

Zynga shares shot higher in early trade Wednesday after the struggling social gaming company named industry veteran Frank Gibeau as its chief executive in its latest effort to reboot.

Shares in Zynga -- which hit the market in a highly anticipated 2011 public offering but have sputtered since -- rallied 4.2 percent to close at $2.25.

Company founder Mark Pincus, who stepped back into the CEO job a year ago, said he would remain active in the role of executive chairman, as he announced Gibeau's appointment late Tuesday.

Gibeau was recruited for the board last year as the maker of the FarmVille, CityVille and Words with Friends games sought to regain momentum.

Analysts said Gibeau is a good fit for Zynga.

"With 25 years of experience in the video game industry, Gibeau is one of the most respected execs in the sector," said Jefferies analyst Brian Pitz in a note to clients.

"Gibeau is best known for his long career at Electronic Arts... Gibeau's strong mobile background makes him a natural fit to lead Zynga."

Barclays analyst Christopher Merwin said that "we expect that Zynga will continue to focus its efforts on winning in a few key genres, while keeping a watchful eye on costs -- something EA has actually done quite well in the console and mobile businesses, and we think will resonate with Mr Gibeau."

Zynga has been in retrenchment over the past three years, cutting employees and closing its operations in China as it strives for profitability.

Zynga, which was founded in 2007, launched games on Facebook and other platforms. The games are free to play but the company generates revenue by selling virtual in-game goods to players and serving up advertising.

The shares hit the market at $10 and reached an all-time high above $13 in 2012 before starting a steady decline.