That’s how much Google’s parent company will pay if its $32 billion acquisition of the cloud security startup falls apart, sources tell the Financial Times. The deal reportedly wouldn’t have proceeded without such a high termination fee, which the FT calls “among the largest of all time.”
Last summer’s reports that Google was negotiating to acquire Wiz never came to fruition, but now the Wall Street Journal and The Information report that talks have started again. At the reported price of about $30 billion this time, it would be Google’s largest purchase ever -- if it happens and if it’s allowed by the regulators of the new administration.
We’ve heard comments from Big Tech and retailers on the impact of tariffs even if they’re delayed, and now here are a few other reactions:
After filing for Chapter 11 in the US in November, Northvolt — which worked with Volkswagen, Volvo, Audi, Porsche, and BMW — has now filed for bankruptcy in Sweden. The company was founded by two ex-Tesla executives and was one of Europe’s leading efforts to rival US and Asian battery manufacturers before racking up billions in debt.
“As the bankruptcy process unfolds, the court-appointed trustee will determine the future of Northvolt’s businesses and their assets, including technology and production facilities.”
[northvolt.com]
At least, that’s what this SEC filing says. He’s one of several insiders who’ve been selling lately, I notice; the chair of Tesla’s board, Elon Musk’s brother, and Tesla’s CFO all dumped tens of millions in shares last month, too. Tesla shares closed today at $222.15, down 41 percent this calendar year. They’re still up about 25 percent from this time last year. It remains unclear whether the continuing Tesla protests have rendered the brand toxic.
[sec.gov]
The Wall Street Journal publisher’s thoughts on what it takes for journalism to thrive in 2025.
