Summary
Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO) announced its definitive agreement to acquire WebEx Communications, Inc. in a cash tender offer valued at approximately $2.9 billion, net of existing cash. This strategic move, expected to close in Cisco's fourth fiscal quarter of 2007, signifies Cisco's intent to significantly enhance its collaboration and communication offerings by integrating WebEx's leading web conferencing and collaboration platform into its portfolio. The acquisition will be executed via a tender offer for all outstanding WebEx shares, followed by a merger. Cisco will assume outstanding WebEx equity awards, converting them into Cisco stock options, rights, or units based on a specified formula. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including antitrust approvals and a majority tender of WebEx shares.
Key Highlights
- 1Cisco to acquire WebEx Communications, Inc. for approximately $2.9 billion (enterprise value, net of cash).
- 2Transaction structured as a cash tender offer for all outstanding WebEx shares, followed by a merger.
- 3Acquisition expected to close in Cisco's fourth fiscal quarter of 2007.
- 4Cisco will assume and convert outstanding WebEx equity awards into Cisco securities.
- 5The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals (e.g., Hart-Scott-Rodino).
- 6WebEx CEO Subrah Iyar has agreed to tender his shares, representing approximately 7.4% of outstanding WebEx stock.