Google’s Biggest Acquisition: Buys Israel-founded Wiz for staggering USD32 billion
Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, has agreed to acquire Israeli cybersecurity firm Wiz for USD 32 billion, marking the largest acquisition in its history. This is also the largest exit in Israel history and biggest-ever cybersecurity acquisition.
This move strengthens Google’s cloud security offerings as it competes with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure in the enterprise cloud market.
Founded in 2020 by former Microsoft and Adallom executives Assaf Rappaport, Ami Luttwak, Yinon Costica, and Roy Reznik, Wiz rapidly became one of the fastest-growing cloud security firms, serving major Fortune 100 clients.
The acquisition builds on Google’s USD 5.4 billion purchase of Mandiant in 2022, reinforcing its commitment to cybersecurity.
Despite initial resistance to acquisition talks in favor of an IPO, Wiz accepted Google’s enhanced offer, which includes USD 1 billion in retention bonuses for employees to ensure leadership continuity. The deal is expected to face FTC regulatory scrutiny, though shifting policies in Washington may favor approval. This acquisition underscores the escalating battle among tech giants to secure enterprise clients through advanced cybersecurity solutions.
Google was advised by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer with Cleary Gottlieb advising on regulatory issues. Fenwick advised Wiz, with Meitar and Cravath as company’s regulatory counsel.
