Salesforce might buy ClickSoftware for $1.5 billion

Cloud-computing giant Salesforce.com (CRM) is said to be in talks with ClickSoftware Technologies to buy the Tel Aviv-based software developer for about $1.5 billion, according to a report by the financial site Calcalist.

Back in 2015, US equity firm Francisco Partners acquired ClickSoftware for $438 million. Following the deal, it was delisted from Nasdaq. ClickSoftware provides cloud-based field service management software and services.

If Saleforce buys ClickSoftware, it will be a significant add-on to its portfolio in Israel — as it bought cloud-based AI marketing platform Datorama for $850 million last year.

Salesforce representatives were not available for comment, and both firms are yet to come out with an official statement.

ADOBE RIVALS SALESFORCE

Back in September, Adobe Systems (ADBE) announced its decision to buy marketing software company Marketo for $4.75 billion in a bid to give stiff competition to Salesforce, which has been dominating the marketing automation division since 2013 when it acquired ExactTarget for $2.5 billion.

The transaction is expected to close during the fourth quarter of Adobe’s fiscal 2018. Until the deal closes, each company will continue to operate independently.

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