The NSO group offers its customers a comprehensive, turnkey cyber intelligence solution. Based on a one-stop-shop approach, the company deploys the solution at the customer site and handles all setup and implementation activities, including hardware and software installation, local integration and system training. Maintenance services, including three-tier technical support and tailored software upgrades, ensure the highest level of ongoing operations.
Blackstone and ClearSky are bidding to own 40% of Israel-based Cyber Firm NSO. Founded in 2009 by Omri Lavie and Shalev Hulio, NSO develops software that can target mobile phones to gather information. The company had a fundraising round in 2014 led by Francisco Partners who paid $120 million for their share of equity.
Now, the Blackstone Group and NSO have an almost sealed deal, whereby Blackstone would acquire 40% of NSO for $400 million. According to reports, ClearSky – which is another private equity firm – will join Blackstone in the deal, getting 10% of the share.
Calcalist, an Israeli daily newspaper reported that Francisco Partners could achieve a partial exit via the deal that was four times its initial investment. Six weeks ago, NSO distributed a $230 million dividend that will not be included in the deal’s value, the newspaper reported.
As part of the deal, Francisco Partners will own 40% of NSO; Blackstone and ClearSky together will hold 40%; the founders will have 6% each and the company’s 500 employees will hold the remaining 8%.
Megha Shah for TechFunnel.com
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