Core Insights - Gusto has agreed to acquire Guideline for approximately $600 million, although the exact terms of the deal remain undisclosed [1][2] - Guideline was valued at $1.15 billion in 2021 and has raised a total of $340 million since its founding in 2015 [2][3] - Gusto aims to sell Guideline's accounts associated with rival payroll companies, potentially increasing returns for investors [5] Company Overview - Gusto, founded in 2011, is valued at $9.3 billion and has been offering 401(k) retirement plans through a partnership with Guideline since 2015 [4] - Guideline, founded by Kevin Busque, helps small and medium-sized businesses manage 401(k) plans with a flat per-employee fee structure [3] Financial Performance - Guideline's annualized recurring revenue (ARR) was reported at $140 million as of January [3] - Despite the acquisition price being below Guideline's previous valuation, early-stage investors are expected to realize returns [2] Competitive Landscape - Guideline faces competition from companies like Human Interest, which grew 70% last year and is in talks to raise $200 million at a $3 billion valuation [7] - Human Interest's expected profitability by the end of the year adds pressure on Guideline to maintain its market position [7]