Shutterstock Announces Merger with Getty Images
Deal News | Jan 10, 2025 | White & Case
Global law firm White & Case LLP has provided legal advisory services to Shutterstock, Inc. in a significant merger with Getty Images Holdings, Inc. The merger, resulting in a company valued at approximately US$3.7 billion, will create a leader in the visual content industry, combining Shutterstock's and Getty Images' extensive content libraries. The unified company aims to enhance its customer offerings, provide more opportunities for contributors, and foster inclusive content. The merger also aims to improve financial stability, allowing increased investment in product innovation amid a competitive digital market. The White & Case team for this merger was led by M&A partners and included a wide range of expertise across antitrust, tax, financial, and technological legal aspects.
Sectors
- Visual Content
- Legal Services
- Corporate Finance
Geography
- United States – Both Shutterstock and Getty Images are listed on the NYSE, and White & Case's key legal team is based in the US, making it a primary geographical focus for the merger.
- Global – The merger has international implications due to White & Case's involvement in various global offices and the global audience served by both companies.
Industry
- Visual Content – The merger involves Shutterstock and Getty Images, two major players in the visual content industry, aiming to enhance their combined content offerings and expand their market influence.
- Legal Services – White & Case provided legal advisory services for the merger, covering multiple practice areas including M&A, antitrust, and foreign direct investment.
- Corporate Finance – The merger, valued at approximately US$3.7 billion, is significant in the corporate finance sector, influencing market valuations and financial strategies.
Financials
- US$3.7 billion – The approximate enterprise value of the combined company post-merger.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shutterstock, Inc. | Target Company | Company | A global provider of stock photography, footage, and music services, listed on the NYSE under SSTK. |
| Getty Images Holdings, Inc. | Bidding Company | Company | A leading visual content company providing imagery and digital content, listed on the NYSE under GETY. |
| White & Case LLP | Legal Advisor | Company | A global law firm that provided legal services for the merger, employing a diverse team of experts in M&A, antitrust, tax, and financial law. |