Microsoft to Acquire LinkedIn for $26 Billion

Announced this morning, before the WWDC keynote:

Microsoft Corp. and LinkedIn Corporation on Monday announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Microsoft will acquire LinkedIn for $196 per share in an all-cash transaction valued at $26.2 billion, inclusive of LinkedIn’s net cash. LinkedIn will retain its distinct brand, culture and independence. Jeff Weiner will remain CEO of LinkedIn, reporting to Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. Reid Hoffman, chairman of the board, co-founder and controlling shareholder of LinkedIn, and Weiner both fully support this transaction. The transaction is expected to close this calendar year.

That’s a lot of money but it seems like an obvious fit. Also, Nadella was probably tired of getting all those LinkedIn emails.

★ Monday, 13 June 2016