Mergers and Acquisitions, CSPs

Microsoft Buying Citrix Systems?

Microsoft (MSFT) is in talks to acquire Citrix Systems (CTXS), according to Puget Sound Business Journal. But additional bidders may also be pursuing Citrix's business, according to the report.

Updated May 3, 2017, 7:00 a.m.: Three private equity firms have bid to acquire Citrix, according to a report.

Citrix hired Goldman Sachs in recent weeks to pursue a potential company sale, according to multiple reports. The company’s market cap was about $13 billion as of Friday, March 26.

Microsoft's alleged interest in the company is easily explained. Microsoft Azure cloud runs various Citrix software components, including virtual desktop software for hosting Windows 10 systems.

Still, it's unclear whether Microsoft will emerge as the company's new owner. ChannelE2E has identified at least 10 different potential Citrix buyers, though we consider the leading candidates to include private equity firms and Microsoft.

ChannelE2E has not independently confirmed Microsoft's alleged M&A talks with Citrix.

Joe Panettieri

Joe Panettieri is co-founder & editorial director of MSSP Alert and ChannelE2E, the two leading news & analysis sites for managed service providers in the cybersecurity market.