Nangate Shareholders Win $41M in M&A Dispute Against Silvaco
Deal News | Mar 19, 2025 | Goodwin
In a significant legal victory, Nangate shareholders secured a $41 million judgment against Silvaco in a dispute over a merger and acquisition (M&A) deal. The Goodwin law firm's Northern California litigation team successfully defended the shareholders, ultimately persuading a California state court judge to deny Silvaco's motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict and a new trial. The dispute traces back to Silvaco's 2018 acquisition of Nangate, a company specializing in Electronic Design Automation (EDA) for electrical engineering and electronics. Goodwin's team, led by Brett Schuman and Jennifer Fisher, argued the case effectively, countering Silvaco's aggressive legal strategies while securing the financial interests of Nangate's shareholders.
Sectors
- Electronic Design Automation (EDA)
- Legal
Geography
- United States – The companies involved, Nangate and Silvaco, are based in the United States, specifically Silicon Valley, and the litigation occurred in a California state court.
- Denmark – Nangate is referred to by the name Nangate Denmark ApS, implying a connection to Denmark.
Industry
- Electronic Design Automation (EDA) – Nangate was involved in the EDA industry, providing design solutions for electrical engineering and electronics before being acquired by Silvaco.
- Legal – The article discusses a legal dispute resolved in court, with Goodwin providing legal representation for Nangate shareholders.
Financials
- $41 Million – Judgment awarded to Nangate shareholders in the legal dispute with Silvaco.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nangate | Target Company | Company | A privately held company specializing in Electronic Design Automation, acquired by Silvaco in 2018. |
| Silvaco, Inc. | Buying Company | Company | The acquiring company in the M&A transaction with Nangate, now involved in litigation with Nangate shareholders. |
| Goodwin | Legal Advisor | Company | The law firm representing Nangate shareholders in the litigation against Silvaco. |
| Brett Schuman | Lead Litigation Lawyer | Person | Goodwin lawyer leading the team that secured the $41 million judgment for Nangate shareholders. |
| Jennifer Fisher | Litigation Lawyer | Person | A key member of the Goodwin team involved in the litigation for Nangate shareholders. |