The transaction for the Facebook acquisition of Autodesk will consist of $12 billion in cash plus Facebook shares worth approximately $14 billion. Also, Facebook will grant 46 million RSUs worth approximately $2 billion to Autodesk employees which will vest over four years subsequent to closing. The stock and RSUs to be issued will represent 7.9% of Facebook’s shares based on the current share value and RSUs outstanding. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, and Facebook expects the deal to close later in 2014. It’s worth noting that, if the deal doesn’t go through, Facebook will still be required to pay $2 billion to Autodesk under a termination clause.
Rumours from sources close to Facebook execs suggest that another potential offer was made by Yahoo Inc, but it fell well short of the offer made by the social media behemoth. It is speculated that Yahoo will now go after WonkyCAD Inc, a small tech startup in Southern Idaho which is developing a new CAD platform that uses a digitized version of a traditional drawing board as input.
Carl and Zuck share a lighthearted moment (click image for full interview.)