Latest transactions in the Digital Services sector
12/07/2024
Paul von Kessel
Latest transactions in the Digital Services sector
Transactions in the Digital Services sector

In the dynamic world of digital services transactions, strategic acquisitions play a key role in driving innovation and growth in a variety of technology industries. Throughout this article, we explore how these digital services transactions are reshaping the global landscape, from key infrastructure purchases to strategic moves in cybersecurity and hybrid cloud. Each deal not only strengthens connectivity and paves the way for a more digitalised and efficient future, but also promotes competitiveness and the continued evolution of businesses in an increasingly interconnected environment.

EU Approves sale of TIM's fixed line network to KKR

The European Commission has given the green light to the acquisition of Telecom Italia's (TIM) fixed line network by private equity firm KKR, saying the deal does not raise competition concerns in the market for wholesale broadband access services in Italy.

Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) description

KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.) is a global investment firm with more than four decades of experience managing investments across a broad range of sectors. Recognised for its strategic approach and ability to drive growth, KKR has a strong track record of improving the operations of the companies in which it invests.

Telecom Italia Mobile (TIM) description

TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile) is one of the leading telecommunications companies in Italy, offering a wide range of communication and data services. The company, known for its leadership in the Italian market, is constantly seeking to improve its infrastructure and services to remain competitive.

Strategic reasons for the acquisition

The EU approval enables NetCo, the entity that manages TIM's fixed network, to join FiberCop, a joint venture between TIM and KKR. FiberCop is dedicated to providing passive services on TIM's secondary network and is in the process of upgrading copper assets to fibre in Italy. With this acquisition, KKR not only supports the modernisation of TIM's infrastructure but also ensures that wholesale fixed access services remain competitive and affordable.

This is one of a number of transactions in the digital services sector that will allow TIM to focus on upgrading its fibre infrastructure, benefiting Italian consumers with faster and more reliable connectivity. In addition, KKR's experience in asset management and its ability to provide capital and expertise will strengthen TIM's market position and promote a robust competitive environment in the Italian telecommunications sector.

HPE acquires Juniper Networks for $14 billion

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has announced in January 2024 the acquisition of Juniper Networks for $14 billion, a strategic move to strengthen its position in the networking market.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise description

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is a global company that provides cloud, data centre and networking technology solutions. Headquartered in San Jose, California, HPE is distinguished by innovation and adaptability in a dynamic technology environment.

Juniper Networks description

Juniper Networks, founden in 1996, is a leading networking equipment company, known for competing with CIsco. In 2022, Juniper experienced 12% year-over-year revenue growth. The company posted a profit of $76 million on $1.4 billion in revenue in the latest quarter.

Strategic reasons for the acquisition

The acquisition of Juniper Networks will enable HPE to double its networking business, improving margins and accelerating growth. The transaction is expected to be accretive to HPE's adjusted earnings per share in the first year. In addition, annual cost savings of $450 million are projected within three years. The integration of Juniper will enable HPE to offer more complete and competitive solutions to its customers.

IBM acquires HashiCorp for $6.4 billion, expanding its hybrid cloud offerings

In April this year IBM announced the acquisition of HashiCorp for $6.4 billion, strengthening its portfolio in hybrid cloud, multicloud and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. The transaction, which is expected to close by the end of 2024, is a significant strategic move for IBM.

IBM: Hybrid Cloud Innovation

IBM stands for innovation and leadership in hybrid cloud. Its focus is on delivering solutions that address the growing complexity of infrastructure and applications in hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

HashiCorp: Cloud Management and Security

San Francisco-based HashiCorp is known for its HashiCorp Cloud Platform, which includes lifecycle management and security, compatible with Google and AWS. In 2024, HashiCorp reported revenues of $583.1 million and is recognised for Terraform, the industry standard for infrastructure provisioning in hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

Strategic reasons for the acquisition

The acquisition of HashiCorp is a key strategy for IBM, expanding its capabilities in hybrid cloud and multi-cloud management. The combined portfolios will enable IBM to offer a comprehensive platform designed for the AI era. HashiCorp brings critical automation tools for dynamic and complex infrastructures, helping IBM manage the increasing complexity of cloud environments as more organisations implement generative AI.

This acquisition will benefit both companies, offering technology buyers new options for managing their cloud environments and applications, backed by IBM's robust infrastructure and HashiCorp's innovation.

Thoma Bravo acquires Darktrace for £4.3bn: A strategic move in cybersecurity

US private equity firm Thoma Bravo has agreed in April 2024 to acquire UK cybersecurity firm Darktrace for £4.3bn. The move underlines Thoma Bravo's strategy to strengthen its presence in the global software and cybersecurity market, driving the growth of its technology investments.

Thoma Bravo description

Founded over 40 years ago, Thoma Bravo manages nearly $140bn in assets and is recognised as one of the world's leading software investment firms. Its focus on acquiring and optimising technology companies has enabled Thoma Bravo to build a robust portfolio of businesses in critical sectors such as cybersecurity.

Darktrace description

Darktrace, founded in 2013 and based in Cambridge, provides artificial intelligence-based cybersecurity services. The company experienced a significant increase in value after going public in April 2021, although it subsequently faced market challenges and controversy over its valuation.

Strategic reasons for the acquisition

Thoma Bravo's decision to acquire Darktrace is based on several strategic reasons:

  1. Expansion in the US market: Thoma Bravo plans to use its expertise in the US market to drive Darktrace's growth in this key region.
  2. Strengthening technological capacities: Darktrace's integration will allow Thoma Bravo to expand its cybersecurity solutions offering.
  3. Access to new markets: The acquisition will facilitate Darktrace's access to financial resources and industry expertise from Thoma Bravo.

With this acquisition, Thoma Bravo solidifies its position in the cybersecurity sector, underlining its commitment to strategic expansion and technological development.

Honeywell acquires Carrier Unit: Powering B2B and B2C Ecommerce offerings

Honeywell has announced in June 2024 the acquisition of Carrier's Global Access Solutions unit. This acquisition promises to strengthen its capabilities in e-commerce and HVAC, positioning it as a leader in building automation.

Carrier description

Carrier, while relatively new to certain aspects of e-commerce, has demonstrated impressive growth in its digital initiatives. With operations in 500 distribution centres, Carrier launched its first ecommerce system, CarrieratHome.com, in 2021 and a B2B marketplace initiative with Amazon Web Services (AWS) in 2022. These platforms have significantly improved its efficiency and sales, decreasing order fulfilment times and increasing sales by 40% annually.

Honeywell description

On the other hand, Honeywell, with $6 billion in sales in 2022, is a giant in building automation products and services. The acquisition of Carrier's Global Access unit, in a $4.95 billion deal, will allow Honeywell to absorb a crucial part of its competition. This move not only broadens its base in HVAC ecommerce but also integrates well-known brands such as LenelS2, Onity and Supra.

Explanation of the strategic reasons for the acquisitions

The strategic acquisition seeks to leverage the combined expertise of both companies in advanced safety and efficiency systems. According to Honeywell CEO Vimal Kapul, this will create a leading security platform with projected annual revenues in excess of $1 billion. The integration of Carrier's digital capabilities with Honeywell's robust infrastructure promises to maximise performance, efficiency and profitability for customers, generating sustainable long-term value.

Reasons behind transactions in the digital services sector

Digital services transactions are reshaping the technology landscape. In the dynamic world of digital services transactions, strategic asset purchases have become crucial to driving innovation and growth.

In conclusion, digital services transactions are redefining the global technology landscape. These strategic transactions range from infrastructure investments to significant advances in cybersecurity and hybrid cloud solutions. By facilitating the modernisation and expansion of digital capabilities, digital services transactions strengthen the competitive position of companies and foster an environment of continuous innovation. In an increasingly interconnected world, these initiatives play a crucial role in ensuring that organisations evolve and deliver advanced and effective solutions to their customers and users.

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