IBM To Acquire Confluent For $9.3B To Boost AI Services

IBM is buying data-streaming platform Confluent for about $9.3 billion, in one of its biggest acquisitions yet, to enhance real-time software needed for AI. IBM will pay $31 per share, valuing the deal at $11 billion including debt, with an expected closing by mid-2026. Analysts say the move could strengthen IBM’s AI and software growth potential.