In a strategic move to bolster its AI ambitions, Salesforce is acquiring data management specialist Informatica for approximately $8 billion. The software company is paying $25 per share – a premium over the closing price of $19.20 on Thursday before the talks became known.
Informatica, a provider of hybrid data integration solutions for cloud and on-premise environments, includes global major customers such as Unilever and Toyota in its portfolio. The deal marks Salesforce's largest acquisition since the $28 billion purchase of Slack in 2021.
The negotiations were competitive: In addition to Salesforce, Cloud Software Group (formerly Citrix) and the private equity firm Thoma Bravo are said to have reviewed offers. In 2023, talks between Salesforce and Informatica failed – at that time, a price of up to 10 billion dollars was discussed.
Since then, Informatica's market value has fallen significantly. However, after the renewed talks became known, the stock quickly recovered and was last quoted at $23.81. Salesforce itself, meanwhile, showed slight price fluctuations but has lost around 18 percent in value since the beginning of the year.
The acquisition fits with the strategic realignment of Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff. He is focusing on AI-driven automation and virtual agents, particularly in customer service—a field where structured and quickly accessible data determine success or failure.
For Informatica, it is a return to the center of attention. The company was acquired by Permira and the Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board in 2015 for 5.3 billion dollars and was relisted in 2021. Permira still holds nearly a third, CPPIB about a quarter of the shares.
The deal underscores that Salesforce is once again making targeted acquisitions after confronting activist investors like Elliott and ValueAct. The price is considered disciplined – the acquisition is funded through a combination of cash and new debt.
