LinkedIn
is the world’s largest and most valuable professional network and continues to
build a strong and growing business. Over the past year, the company has
launched a new version of its mobile app that has led to increased member
engagement; enhanced the LinkedIn Newsfeed to deliver better business insights;
acquired a leading online learning platform called Lynda.com to enter a new
market; and rolled out a new version of its Recruiter product to its enterprise
customers. These innovations have resulted in increased membership, engagement
and financial results, specifically:
- 19% growth year over year to more than 433 million members worldwide
- 9% growth year-on-year to more than 105 million unique visiting members per month
- 49% growth year-on-year to 60 percent mobile usage
- 34% growth year-on-year to more than 45 billion quarterly member page views
- 101% growth year-on-year to more than 7 million active job listings
“The
LinkedIn team has grown a fantastic business centered on connecting the world’s
professionals,” Satya Nadella said. “Together we can accelerate the growth of
LinkedIn, as well as Microsoft Office 365 and Dynamics as we seek to empower
every person and organization on the planet.”
Microsoft
Corp. (MSFT) and LinkedIn Corporation (LNKD) on Monday announced
they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Microsoft will
acquire LinkedIn for $196 per share in an all-cash transaction valued at $26.2
billion, inclusive of LinkedIn’s net cash.
LinkedIn will retain its distinct
brand, culture and independence. Jeff Weiner will remain CEO of LinkedIn,
reporting to Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. Reid Hoffman, chairman of the
board, co-founder and controlling shareholder of LinkedIn, and Weiner both
fully support this transaction. The transaction is expected to close this
calendar year.
