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Synopsys (SNPS) Reportedly in Advanced Talks to Buy ANSYS

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Synopsys Inc. (SNPS - Free Report) is in advanced discussions to purchase ANSYS Inc. (ANSS - Free Report) for an estimated $35 billion, Bloomberg reported last Friday, citing people familiar with the matter. The financial news and data provider’s sources suggest that Synopsys is considering paying $400 for each ANSYS shares, and a deal could be announced as soon as next week.

We consider that the potential merger deal would mark a groundbreaking alliance in the realm of simulation software and semiconductor design. This proposed acquisition holds the potential of mutual growth and amplified capabilities that could revolutionize the industries in which they operate.

At last Friday’s closing price, ANSYS had a market capitalization of approximately $30 billion, while Synopsys stood at about $74 billion. Over the past year, SNPS and ANSS stocks have soared 48.8% and 38.8%, respectively.

Acquisition Dynamics for Synopsys

The envisioned merger between Synopsys and ANSYS holds prospects for both entities. Synopsys specializes in electronic design automation software, catering to semiconductor and electronics industries. Conversely, ANSYS is renowned for developing and globally marketing engineering simulation software and services widely used across a spectrum of industries and academia.

The potential integration of ANSYS' simulation technology into Synopsys' semiconductor design solutions signifies a strategic enhancement. Synopsys can further solidify its semiconductor design prowess, offering more robust and efficient chip design processes that ensure higher accuracy in testing and validation phases.

Moreover, Synopsys could significantly diversify its revenue streams beyond chip design tools by venturing into the simulation software domain. This strategic move aligns with the increasing demand for engineering simulation across industries, setting the stage for expanded market penetration and diversified income streams.

The convergence of Synopsys and ANSYS could position the merged entity as a frontrunner in semiconductor and engineering simulation markets. By providing integrated solutions that cater to the intricate demands of contemporary technological advancements, this combined offering might outpace competitors, establishing itself as a one-stop destination for semiconductor and product development requirements.

Industry Consolidation Continues

The semiconductor industry has been witnessing a consolidation trend for several years, driven by factors like rising chip production costs and relatively sluggish growth rates. Such challenges have propelled companies to pursue mergers and acquisitions as a means of attaining greater market share, cost efficiency and scale economies to improve investment returns.

Recent industry-defining acquisitions have highlighted the strategic importance of such mergers. One of the most monumental acquisitions in the space was the completion of the VMware acquisition by Broadcom (AVGO - Free Report) in November 2023, in a deal worth $69 billion. VMware is a pioneer in virtualization software that consolidates applications and programs on a smaller number of servers. It will help Broadcom tap the hybrid cloud market.

Prior to this, in May 2023, Qualcomm (QCOM - Free Report) entered into a definitive agreement to buy Autotalks Ltd. — an Israel-based maker of chips used in crash-prevention technology in vehicles. The company intends to integrate Autotalk’s technology into its assisted and autonomous driving product.

In the semiconductor space, merger & acquisition announcements often prompt substantial market reactions, offering investors potential opportunities to capitalize on overnight surges in targeted companies' share prices. As the consolidation cycle within the semiconductor industry shows no signs of abating, investors are keenly eyeing stocks that might emerge as potential takeover targets.

Currently, Qualcomm carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), while Synopsys and Broadcom hold a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) each. Ansys has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).

You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.


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