PayPal Board Views $53 Billion Stripe-Advent Bid as Too Low

The PayPal logo is displayed outside a company office as the board reviews a takeover proposal from Stripe and Advent International.

 

PayPal Board Says $53 Billion Stripe-Advent Bid Undervalues Company

NEW YORK — July 16, 2026

PayPal's board believes a $53 billion takeover proposal from Stripe and private equity firm Advent International does not fully reflect the company's value, according to people familiar with the matter. Directors are also assessing potential regulatory and financing challenges before deciding how to respond.

The offer values PayPal at $60.50 per share, representing a premium over its recent market price. However, the board's early assessment is that the proposal falls short of the company's long-term potential if its current turnaround strategy succeeds. PayPal has not yet issued a formal response and is expected to hold additional board meetings as it reviews the proposal and considers whether competing offers could emerge.

Beyond the proposed price, the board is examining the certainty of financing, possible antitrust scrutiny, and the time required to complete a deal. These factors are expected to play a significant role in any future negotiations.

The bidding group has sought to strengthen its proposal by securing approximately $50 billion in financing from JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Stripe and Advent would contribute about $17 billion in equity and would jointly own PayPal with equal stakes if the acquisition proceeds.

People familiar with the negotiations said the consortium has also explored options to address potential regulatory concerns. One possibility under consideration would involve separating certain PayPal assets, including its Braintree payment processing business, if required by competition authorities.

The proposed acquisition comes as PayPal works to revive growth after facing stronger competition in digital payments from companies such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Investors are expected to closely watch the company's earnings report scheduled for July 28 for signs that its core checkout business is improving.

Although the board has reservations about the current offer, sources said Stripe and Advent remain the leading bidders and continue to pursue an agreement. Discussions are expected to continue, though no final decision has been announced.