Google Announces Acquisition of Wiz for $32 Billion
In a landmark move, Google has unveiled plans to acquire Wiz, a leading cloud-security platform, for approximately $32 billion in cash. This acquisition marks Google’s most significant purchase to date, surpassing its previous record of $12.5 billion for Motorola Mobility in 2011.
Details of the Acquisition
The deal is anticipated to close in 2026, contingent upon standard closing conditions, including necessary regulatory approvals. Once finalized, Wiz, which is headquartered in New York, will become a part of Google Cloud, contributing to the company’s strategic expansion into cloud security.
Strategic Importance
Google has emphasized that acquiring Wiz aligns with two critical trends in the age of artificial intelligence: enhancing cloud security and supporting multi-cloud functionality. The tech giant has noted that cybersecurity is increasingly vital for protecting against emerging threats and safeguarding national security.
“From its earliest days, Google’s strong security focus has made us a leader in keeping people safe online,” said Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and its parent company, Alphabet. “Today, businesses and governments that run in the cloud are looking for even stronger security solutions, and greater choice in cloud computing providers. Together, Google Cloud and Wiz will turbocharge improved cloud security and the ability to use multiple clouds.”
Wiz’s Position in the Market
Founded in 2020, Wiz has quickly established itself as a key player in the cloud-security arena. In May 2024, the company announced a significant funding round of $1 billion, reaching a valuation of $12 billion. This funding has brought Wiz’s total investment to $1.9 billion, with contributions from notable investors including:
- Andreessen Horowitz
- Lightspeed Venture Partners
- Thrive Capital
- Greylock
- Wellington Management
- Cyberstarts
- Greenoaks
- Howard Schultz
- Index Ventures
- Salesforce Ventures
- Sequoia Capital
Future Implications
Post-acquisition, Google plans to ensure that Wiz’s products will remain functional and accessible across major cloud platforms, including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Oracle Cloud. Furthermore, Google Cloud will maintain a diverse selection of partner security solutions available through the Google Cloud Marketplace, providing customers with a variety of options.
This strategic acquisition underscores Google’s commitment to evolving its cloud services while addressing the growing demands for enhanced security and multi-cloud interoperability. As the digital landscape continues to expand, partnerships and acquisitions like this will play a crucial role in shaping the future of cloud computing.