Thoma Bravo LLC, a prominent American software investment firm, has successfully acquired Darktrace plc, a British cybersecurity company specializing in AI-based solutions. The acquisition, valued at $5.32 billion, translates to $7.75 per share, representing a 44.3% premium over Darktrace's closing price on April 25, 2024. The agreement was finalized on April 26, 2024.

Darktrace's decision to sell was influenced by its perceived undervaluation on the London Stock Exchange, which is often seen as less favorable for technology firms compared to U.S. and Asian markets. The company aims to leverage this acquisition to enhance its position in the cybersecurity sector and to further its innovative AI strategies with the financial backing of Thoma Bravo.

Thoma Bravo's investment is expected to bolster Darktrace's capabilities in providing proactive cybersecurity solutions for enterprises and organizations. The firm has a significant presence in the software and technology investment space, managing assets exceeding $138 billion from its headquarters in Chicago, Illinois.

Darktrace, headquartered in Cambridge, England, protects large organizations from cloud-based cyber threats and boasts a customer base of approximately 9,400 clients. Jefferies and Qatalyst Partners served as advisors to Darktrace during this transaction.

This acquisition marks a strategic move for Thoma Bravo, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its influence in the cybersecurity market while supporting Darktrace's growth and innovation in AI-driven security solutions.