Workday surges up to 26% on report of potential $43 billion Silver Lake buyout

Published Aug 16, 03:50 PM UTC

Workday Inc. experienced its best trading day in a decade on August 13, 2026, with shares surging up to 26% after Reuters reported that private equity firm Silver Lake is in talks to acquire the company in a deal potentially worth $43 billion. The human-resources and finance software provider's stock rose about 18% on the day, though it was halted multiple times for volatility. The talks are ongoing with no guarantee of a transaction, and Silver Lake may seek other investors to help finance what would be one of the largest software buyouts in history. Workday's stock had been under pressure in 2026, trading over 40% below its 2024 peak due to concerns that AI technologies could devalue traditional enterprise software. Co-founder Aneel Bhusri returned as CEO in February to guide the company through the AI transition. The report suggests a sophisticated buyer sees value in Workday's 11,500 customers, including Netflix and U.S. Bank, despite market fears. However, analysts caution that the move is speculative, with no deal confirmed and significant short interest remaining.