IBM to Acquire Confluent in $11B Deal, Bolstering AI & Data Streaming

• IBM is set to acquire Confluent in an all-cash deal valued at approximately $11 billion, with shareholders receiving $31 per share.
• Confluent, known for its real-time data streaming platform, will enhance IBM’s enterprise software stack.
• The acquisition aims to boost IBM's smart data platform for faster deployment of AI, cloud, and data-driven services.
• The deal is expected to close by mid-2026, subject to regulatory and shareholder approval.
• Confluent's shares surged nearly 30% post-announcement, while IBM's shares saw a slight dip.

Why It Matters: This deal enhances IBM's AI and data services for future tech solutions.