Avast and NortonLifeLock have confirmed they are in merger talks, following multiple reports in the press. The deal would see NortonLifeLock acquire Avast to create a new giant in anti-virus software for the consumer market.
The takeover would see Norton cement its focus on the consumer market, after selling its enterprise security business to Broadcom in 2019 and buying Avira in 2020. Norton said the merger "would bring together two companies with aligned visions, highly complementary business profiles and a joint commitment to innovation".
Under the London stock market rules, where Avast is listed, Norton has until 11 August to announce whether it plans to make an offer for Avast or withdraw. Avast has a market capitalisation of around GBP 5.2 billion.
