Hewlett Packard Nears EU Approval for $14 Billion Juniper Networks Deal

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is on the verge of securing unconditional European Union antitrust approval for its $14 billion acquisition of networking gear maker Juniper Networks, according to Reuters. Sources familiar with the matter have indicated that the approval could be finalized without the imposition of additional conditions, smoothing the path for one of the tech industry’s significant recent deals.

Hewlett Packard announced the acquisition of Juniper in January, highlighting the accelerating trend among companies to enhance and innovate their product lines amidst the growing demand for artificial intelligence-driven services. The move is seen as part of a broader strategy by HPE to bolster its competitive edge and expand its market reach. When contacted, both Hewlett Packard and Juniper Networks did not immediately provide comments.

Per Reuters, HPE is expected to address any potential EU competition concerns by emphasizing the market dominance of Cisco, a key competitor to Juniper. This strategy aims to alleviate worries that the acquisition could stifle competition within the networking gear market.

In addition to the EU review, the acquisition is under scrutiny by the United Kingdom’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The British antitrust enforcer is set to deliver its decision on the transaction by August 14. The outcome of these regulatory reviews will be crucial in determining the final approval and subsequent impact of the merger on the industry.

Source: Reuters