PALO ALTO - Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE:HPE) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Juniper Networks (NYSE:JNPR), a significant move aimed at bolstering its cloud services and artificial intelligence capabilities. The all-cash deal is valued at $14 billion, or $40 per share—a premium of about 32% over Juniper Networks' last unaffected stock price as of January 8, 2024. This strategic acquisition is set to enhance HPE's portfolio by integrating Juniper’s advanced Mist AI technology with the assets of HPE Aruba Networking.
The merger, which is anticipated to be finalized between late 2024 and early 2025, is currently subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Once completed, this deal is poised to position HPE as a player in the realm of secure unified cloud services and AI-native networking solutions. The move is seen as a response to the growing IT trends that emphasize artificial intelligence and hybrid cloud environments, with the goal of delivering comprehensive technology solutions that span from edge devices to cloud infrastructure.
Rami Rahim, the current CEO of Juniper Networks, is set to lead the expanded networking sector within HPE after the transaction is completed. He will report directly to HPE President and CEO Antonio Neri. The financing strategy for this ambitious acquisition includes securing $14 billion in term loans, alongside plans for future refinancing to manage the investment effectively. This acquisition is expected to immediately bolster HPE's non-GAAP earnings and free cash flow due to financing from term loans.
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