Apps & Software

aQuantive Massive Buyout Premium (AQNT, MSFT)

Stock Tickers: AQNT, MSFT, GOOG, TFSM, YHOO, VCLK

aQuantive Inc. (AQNT-NASDAQ) just recived a huge premium buyout by Microsoft (MSFT-NASDAQ).  This is one that was a 50/50 chance of happening via deductive reasoning after the Google (GOOG-NASDAQ) and after the WPP Group buyout of 24/7 Real Media (TFSM-NASDAQ) and after the Yahoo! (YHOO-NASDAQ) acquisition of a private Right Media.  So this only leaves ValueClick (VCLK-NASDAQ).

What is surprising is the premium: aQuantive is being acquired for roughly $6 Billion, or $66.50 per share.  This stock has never seen a price like that except back at the recombination price at the start of 2001.  Now if you have been a holder of AQNT you are guaranteed a huge profit. 

In all honesty this deal is not a surprise at all, but the price is very surprising since it is nearly a 90% premium.  Microsoft would have been able to have owned this one cheaper if they would have acted sooner.  Shares of ValueClick (VCLK) are trading up 17% pre-market at just under $33.00 as they are the last man standing independently, and that is above the $31.34 year-high.

Jon C. Ogg
May 18, 2007

Get Ready To Retire (Sponsored)

Start by taking a quick retirement quiz from SmartAsset that will match you with up to 3 financial advisors that serve your area and beyond in 5 minutes, or less.

Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests.

Here’s how it works:
1. Answer SmartAsset advisor match quiz
2. Review your pre-screened matches at your leisure. Check out the advisors’ profiles.
3. Speak with advisors at no cost to you. Have an introductory call on the phone or introduction in person and choose whom to work with in the future

Get started right here.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.