This stands as the largest deal under Satya Nadella’s tenure as CEO so far, who has been increasing Microsoft’s appeal more to business customers with cloud-based services and productivity tools. Non-GAAP includes stock-based compensation expense consistent with Microsoft’s reporting practice, and excludes expected impact of purchase accounting adjustments as well as integration and transaction-related expenses. The joint statement revealed that the deal would become earnings accretive to Microsoft’s non-GAAP earnings per share in Microsoft’s fiscal year 2019 or less than two years post-closing.

“I fully support this transaction and the Board’s decision to pursue it, and will vote my shares in accordance with their recommendation on it.”

I see incredible opportunity for our members and customers and look forward to supporting this new and combined business,” said Hoffman. “Today is a re-founding moment for LinkedIn. The transaction is expected to close this calendar year. However, it is subject to approval by LinkedIn’s shareholders, the satisfaction of certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The deal is believed to have won the confidence and support of the board of LinkedIn that includes Reid Hoffman, Chairman of the board, Co-founder and controlling stake-holder of the company. “For the last 13 years, we’ve been uniquely positioned to connect professionals to make them more productive and successful, and I’m looking forward to leading our team through the next chapter of our story.” “Just as we have changed the way the world connects to opportunity, this relationship with Microsoft, and the combination of their cloud and LinkedIn’s network, now gives us a chance to also change the way the world works,” Weiner said. Also LinkedIn’s brand, culture and independence will remain intact and unhindered by this acquisition. The release conveyed that Jeff Weiner would continue his tenure as the CEO of LinkedIn, reporting to Nadella. “Together we can accelerate the growth of LinkedIn, as well as Microsoft Office 365 and Dynamics as we seek to empower every person and organization on the planet.” “The LinkedIn team has grown a fantastic business centered on connecting the world’s professionals,” said Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. The deal is an all-cash transaction at $196 per share at a premium of 49.5% from Friday’s close. and online professional network LinkedIn Corporation have made a landmark announcement today of entering into a definitive agreement under which Microsoft is to acquire LinkedIn for $26.2 billion.

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