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Google's $32 billion Wiz deal may signal a turning point for slow IPO, M&A markets
CNBCยท2025-03-24 11:00

Core Insights - Google's acquisition of Wiz for $32 billion marks its largest acquisition to date and could signal a turning point for the IPO and M&A markets, which have seen a slowdown in activity [2][3] - The cybersecurity sector is increasingly attractive for acquisitions, with CB Insights identifying it as a top target area for 2025 [4] - The rise of artificial intelligence and cloud computing has heightened the demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions, making it a critical focus for companies [5][6] Company Developments - Wiz's acquisition may prompt competitors like Amazon to pursue their own acquisitions to enhance their cybersecurity offerings [6][7] - Companies such as Proofpoint and Illumio are being considered for upcoming IPOs, with Proofpoint previously going private in a $12.3 billion acquisition [8] - Netskope and Snyk are also potential IPO candidates, with Snyk recently valued at $7.4 billion and reporting over $300 million in annual recurring revenues [10] Market Trends - The overall appetite for IPOs and M&A activity is beginning to recover, with several companies planning to go public in the near future [3][7] - Experts anticipate a resurgence in the IPO market in the latter half of the year, despite potential short-term impacts from large acquisitions like Wiz's [7][11] - The ongoing volatility in the market raises questions about the timing of IPOs for various companies [11]