Synopsys to acquire software firm Ansys in $35B deal

Chip-design company Synopsys has announced its plan for the acquisition of software developer Ansys for an estimated $34B in cash and stock. This agreement represents one of the year's largest deals and is expected to enrich both companies' product offerings and customer bases.

• Deal Terms: By the announcement, Ansys shareholders will receive $197 in cash along with 0.345 shares of Synopsys stock per share, which approximates Ansys shares at $390.19 based on Dec. 21 closing share prices. The deal is anticipated to conclude in the first half of 2025.

• Software Giants' Overview: Synopsys is a dominant player in semiconductor design software production. On the other hand, Ansys specializes in creating simulation software that aids engineers in predicting real-world product performance, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and speeding up market entry of products.

• Impact on Ansys Shares: Ansys shares reportedly dropped 5.4% to $327.95 after the announcement, following a $346.48 closing on the preceding Friday. This dip suggests a possible retreat by investors, who were earlier buoyed by a surge following rumors of a potential sale of the Canonsburg, Pennsylvania-based company.

Despite the potential regulatory hurdles and a protracted closing time, the deal is seen as a strong strategic fit for Synopsys by analysts like Niraj Patel from Bloomberg Intelligence.