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E98: Ryan Burke on Zilla Security’s $175M Aquisition and the Realities of M&A

Mar 2, 2025
Delve into the $175 million acquisition of Zilla Security and the real challenges of M&A in today's volatile market. Discover how AI is reshaping the cybersecurity landscape, presenting both threats and opportunities. Explore the evolving dynamics of tech contracts as deal sizes grow and how trusted networks are crucial in sales strategies. The conversation also touches on the return of 'Rolodex hires' and the importance of partnerships in driving market success. It's an insightful journey through the complexities of navigating change in the tech industry.
01:09:42

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The $175 million acquisition of Zilla by CyberArk illustrates the increasing rarity and significance of substantial startup exits in today's market.
  • The emotional transition from urgency to stability among industry professionals reflects deeper economic shifts that impact business perceptions and decision-making.

Deep dives

Insights on Recent Exits

Exits for startups have become increasingly rare, making substantial acquisitions noteworthy events. A recent acquisition saw CyberArk acquiring Zilla for $175 million, highlighting a significant milestone in the tech landscape. The unexpected nature of such exits often embodies the hard work and dedication of a startup team, revealing the complex calculus involved in the decision-making process. Understanding the dynamics that lead to these exits can provide valuable insights for founders navigating the uncertain waters of startup life.

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