Thoma Bravo Makes a Bold Move, Acquires Darktrace in a $5.3 Billion Deal

Thoma Bravo secures British AI cybersecurity company Darktrace in a landmark $5.3 billion acquisition.

In a groundbreaking move set to reshape the cybersecurity landscape, Thoma Bravo has announced its intention to acquire Darktrace, a leading British AI cybersecurity company, for a staggering $5.3 billion. This strategic maneuver marks a significant step forward for both companies, poised to fortify global defenses against evolving cyber threats.

Darktrace, renowned for its AI-driven cybersecurity solutions safeguarding enterprises worldwide, has garnered attention for its innovative approach to threat detection and mitigation. With clients ranging from industry giants like Coca-Cola to luxury automaker Aston Martin, Darktrace has established itself as a formidable force in the cybersecurity realm.

The unanimous approval of Darktrace's board underscores the confidence in Thoma Bravo's offer, propelling Darktrace's shares to soar approximately 16% in London trading. Shareholders stand to benefit from a substantial premium of $7.75 per share—a 20% increase over the firm's closing price prior to the announcement.

This monumental deal comes on the heels of a previous attempt by Thoma Bravo to acquire Darktrace in 2022, which ultimately faltered due to disagreements on terms. However, with cybersecurity firms wielding AI at the forefront of demand, the allure of Darktrace's cutting-edge technology proved irresistible to Thoma Bravo.

The acquisition of Darktrace by Thoma Bravo mirrors a broader trend in the cybersecurity sector, where companies deploying AI are in high demand. Notably, Cisco Systems' recent acquisition of cybersecurity provider Splunk for a staggering $28 billion underscores the immense value placed on advanced cybersecurity solutions.