Australian software company WiseTech Global on Monday announced its biggest deal to date, buying out U.S. cloud computing firm E2open for $2.1 billion to broaden its product offerings.
The deal, which will be fully funded through a new $3 billion debt facility underwritten by a syndicate of nine lenders including Deutsche Bank and HSBC, marks a significant bet by WiseTech on expanding its global footprint.
WiseTech, known for its flagship CargoWise platform, is offering $3.30 per E2open share – a 24.5% premium to the U.S. company’s last closing price.
Shares in WiseTech opened more than 5% higher in Sydney and last traded up 5.2% at A$106.
The acquisition would significantly enhance WiseTech’s software capabilities, adding solutions in supply chain planning, procurement, trade compliance, and channel management.
The acquisition also arrives at a pivotal moment for the Sydney-headquartered company.
Billionaire cofounder and largest shareholder Richard White stepped down as chief executive in October 2024 after media reports alleged payments to a former sexual partner, prompting reputational scrutiny and a steep sell-off in shares.
E2open has recently been facing worries around its growth trajectory amid heightened macroeconomic uncertainty.
The latest acquisition dwarfs WiseTech’s previous deals, including the $414 million purchase of Blume Global in 2023, and positions the firm more squarely within the broader enterprise logistics and supply chain tech landscape.
source: https://cio.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/corporate-news/wisetech-global-acquires-e2open-for-21-billion-a-strategic-move-in-cloud-computing-and-supply-chain-solutions/121403392
