Coursera Acquires Udemy in $2.5B All-Stock Deal to Consolidate Online Training Market
Coursera's acquisition of Udemy for $2.5 billion in stock marks a strategic consolidation in the online education sector. The deal values Udemy at approximately $930 million, with shareholders receiving 0.8 Coursera shares per Udemy share—a premium that sent Udemy's stock soaring 22% on announcement.
The combined entity aims to dominate corporate training markets, particularly in AI, data science, and software development upskilling. Coursera brings institutional partnerships and credential programs, while Udemy contributes its marketplace of independent instructors and business subscription model.
Market reaction was immediately bullish, with Coursera shares rising 4% as investors endorsed the consolidation play. Regulatory approvals pending, the transaction is expected to close in late 2024.