New Momentum for Reform of Media Concentration Control
2 May 2025
Hornetsecurity Group (“Hornetsecurity”), a portfolio company of TA Associates, PSG Equity, and Verdane, has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Proofpoint, Inc. (“Proofpoint”), a leading cybersecurity and compliance company. Hornetsecurity is a global provider of comprehensive AI-powered M365 security, data protection, compliance, and security awareness solutions. It operates in more than 120 countries and serves more than 125,000 customers through its international distribution network of over 12,000 channel partners and Managed Service Providers.
The acquisition will significantly enhance Proofpoint’s ability to provide human-centric security to small and mid-sized businesses. Hornetsecurity will bring a high-performing business into the Proofpoint portfolio with over $160 million in annual recurring revenue, more than 20 percent year-over-year growth, and performance above the Rule of 60.
The acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.
Hengeler Mueller advised the management of Hornetsecurity on the transaction in an integrated team with Davis Polk.
Hengeler Mueller-team for Hornetsecurity
Corporate/M&A: Ingo Berner (Berlin), Daniel Möritz (Munich, both partner, both lead), Sjard Seeger, Emre Aksoy (both Berlin), Alexander Bömer, Rebecca Schlottmann (both Munich, all associate),
IP/IT: Matthias Rothkopf (partner, Düsseldorf), Patrick M. Schmidt (senior associate, Frankfurt),
Antitrust: Sarah Milde (partner), Annika Linnerud (associate, both Munich).
Davis Polk-team
Veronica M. Wissel (New York), Leo Borchardt (London, both partner).
