Google buys Wiz for $32 billion
In a groundbreaking move, Alphabet, Google’s parent company, has sealed its largest-ever acquisition by purchasing cybersecurity startup Wiz for a staggering $32 billion. This all-cash deal is set to significantly enhance Google Cloud’s security framework and bolster its competition against tech giants like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure.
Google buys Wiz for $32 billion
A Long-Awaited Deal Finally Materializes
Google had initially put forth a $23 billion offer for Wiz in 2023, but the deal crumbled due to regulatory roadblocks. As a result, Wiz shifted its focus toward an initial public offering (IPO). However, with shifting policies and growing investor optimism under Donald Trump’s administration, Google successfully rekindled negotiations and finalized the acquisition.
Google buys Wiz for $32 billion
Why Google acquired Wiz?
Wiz has rapidly emerged as one of the most formidable players in the cybersecurity space. Valued at $12 billion in May 2023, the company specializes in AI-driven cloud security solutions that detect and prevent cyber threats with remarkable precision.
Google buys Wiz for $32 billion
Cybersecurity has become a focal point for businesses worldwide, especially after the catastrophic CrowdStrike outage last year, which disrupted industries on a massive scale. With companies increasingly fortifying their digital assets, Wiz is a strategic addition to Google’s security arsenal.
Google buys Wiz for $32 billion
Google has been making aggressive moves in the cybersecurity domain, evident from its 2022 acquisition of Mandiant for $5.4 billion, where it successfully outbid Microsoft. Now, with Wiz under its umbrella, Google’s security infrastructure is stronger than ever.
Impact of the Acquisition
Despite the strategic significance of the deal, Alphabet’s shares experienced a slight dip in premarket trading. Google stock, which surged by nearly 35% in 2023, has slid by 13% this year due to its heavy investments in artificial intelligence.
Google buys Wiz for $32 billion
Once the deal officially closes in 2026, Wiz will operate under Google Cloud but continue offering its services across multiple platforms, including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Oracle Cloud. Wiz currently boasts an impressive client list, featuring industry heavyweights such as Morgan Stanley, BMW, and LVMH.
Alphabet’s Legacy of Game-Changing Acquisitions
Alphabet has a long history of high-profile acquisitions aimed at expanding its technological footprint. Some of its most notable deals include:
- YouTube (2006) – $1.65 billion: Revolutionized video sharing and digital advertising.
- DoubleClick (2007) – $3.1 billion: Transformed online display advertising.
- Motorola Mobility (2012) – $12.5 billion: Strengthened Google’s mobile hardware business.
- Waze (2013) – $966 million: Enhanced Google Maps with real-time traffic insights.
- Nest Labs (2014) – $3.2 billion: Marked Google’s entry into smart home technology.
- Apigee (2016) – $625 million: Improved cloud services with API management.
- Looker (2020) – $2.6 billion: Advanced business intelligence and analytics.
- Fitbit (2021) – $2.1 billion: Expanded Google’s footprint in wearable health tech.
Google buys Wiz for $32 billion
With Wiz now part of Alphabet’s growing empire, Google is doubling down on cybersecurity, ensuring its cloud offerings remain among the most secure in the industry. The future of cloud security is evolving, and Google is making sure it stays ahead of the curve.
