Gen Digital Has Proposed Takeover of GoDaddy
The cybersecurity firm offered roughly $12 billion to acquire the Tempe-based web services company.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Public Companies
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Gen Digital has initiated a $12 billion takeover bid for GoDaddy, aiming to expand its reach into website building and domain services. Both companies are based in Tempe, Arizona.
Why it matters
The acquisition would represent a strategic shift for Gen Digital, moving the firm beyond its core cybersecurity and fintech operations into the small-business software market.
GoDaddy reported second quarter 2026 revenue of $1.3 billion, while Gen Digital generated $5 billion in revenue for the 2026 fiscal year. GoDaddy has provided full-year 2026 revenue guidance ranging from $5.215 billion to $5.255 billion.
The players
Gen Digital
A cybersecurity and software company headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, that operates various consumer-focused digital safety brands.
GoDaddy
A Tempe, Arizona-based technology company that provides domain registration, website hosting, and small-business software tools.
MoneyLion
A financial technology firm that provides consumer banking and credit products and was acquired by Gen Digital in 2025.
The details
The potential deal marks a significant expansion for Gen Digital, which recently acquired MoneyLion for $1 billion in April 2025. GoDaddy has faced recent volatility, including a 14% stock drop in February 2026 and an ongoing class-action lawsuit filed in September 2026 alleging misleading disclosures.
Timeline
In April 2025, Gen Digital acquired MoneyLion.
GoDaddy stock fell approximately 14% during February 2026.
GoDaddy reported $1.3 billion in revenue for the second quarter of 2026.
A class-action lawsuit was filed against GoDaddy in September 2026.
Market Landscape
This move mirrors a broader industry shift toward horizontal integration where cybersecurity firms seek to bundle diverse digital services for small-business clients. The acquisition would position Gen Digital to compete more directly with diversified web infrastructure providers.
Average small-business owners currently using GoDaddy should monitor for potential changes to subscription pricing or customer service policies if the acquisition proceeds. The status of existing software tools and domain management portals could be subject to organizational changes following a takeover.
The takeaway
The proposed acquisition reflects a significant consolidation strategy aimed at capturing more of the small-business digital ecosystem. Investors and customers alike should track how Gen Digital manages GoDaddy's existing liabilities and revenue targets in the coming months.
Further reading
Learn more about corporate shifts in the Public Companies sector.
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