Key Details of the Offer
French tech company Atos announced today that it has received a confirmatory offer from the French government to acquire part of its former Advanced Computing business for an enterprise value of €410 million ($466.33 million)[2].
The offer includes €110 million in contingent earn-outs that are based on profitability indicators for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. Specifically, €50 million should be paid upon closing, and the remaining €60 million is tied to 2026 performance[4].
Scope of the Acquisition
It's important to note that Atos' Vision AI operations are specifically excluded from the proposed deal with the French state[2]. These Vision AI activities, which contribute to more than one-third of the operating margin of the formerly considered perimeter, will be repositioned within Atos' Eviden business unit to structure a new business line[4].
Timeline for Completion
According to Atos, the parties aim to sign a binding agreement in the coming weeks, with the closing of the transaction expected in 2026[4].
This move follows a previous announcement from November 25, 2024, when Atos received a non-binding offer from the French State to acquire its Advanced Computing activities for an enterprise value of €500 million, with potential earn-outs bringing the total to €625 million[5].
Background on the Business
Atos' Advanced Computing business regroups the High-Performance Computing (HPC) & Quantum as well as Business Computing & Artificial intelligence divisions. As of late 2024, the business employed approximately 2,500 people and generated revenue of about €570 million in 2023[5].
The French government's interest in acquiring this strategic technology asset highlights the growing importance of advanced computing capabilities for national interests in an increasingly digital world.
