IBM Buys Data Platforms from Software AG

IBM has agreed to acquire two data management and integration platforms from Software AG, for EUR 2.13bn in cash. StreamSets is a cloud-native DataOps and data ingestion platform, while webMethods focuses on data integration and API management.

Software AG, which is majority owned by investor Silver Lake, groups the two tools together as the core of its 'Super iPaaS' technology (integration platform-as-a-service). IBM says StreamSets will add data onboarding capabilities to its AI and data platform watsonx, while webMethods will give clients and partners additional integration and API management tools for their hybrid multi-cloud environments.

StreamSets gives user enterprises consistent access and delivery of data across a wide spectrum of data sources and types; and aids the design of smart data pipelines and the ingestion of real-time and batch data. webMethods offers B2B integration and managed file transfer, and provides a modern API gateway to manage, monitor and monetize APIs. Software AG says Super iPaaS is 'growing, profitable and has a significant recurring revenue profile'.

Rob Thomas (pictured), SVP Software and Chief Commercial Officer at IBM says, 'Together with IBM's watsonx AI and data platform, as well as its application modernization, data fabric and IT automation products, StreamSets and webMethods will help clients unlock the full potential of their applications and data. Today's news will give IBM clients and partners one of the most modern and comprehensive application and data integration platforms in the industry'.

Software AG CEO Sanjay Brahmawar comments: 'IBM is the ideal home for webMethods and StreamSets... Combined with IBM's global scale and focus on hybrid cloud and AI, our people will have a fantastic opportunity to develop while helping enterprises everywhere get the most out of their applications and data'.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2024.

'Big Blue' is online at www.ibm.com .