France Proposes €700 Million for Atos Big Data and Cybersecurity Units
The French state has made a 700-million-euro bid for Atos' most sensitive businesses, including cybersecurity and supercomputers used for the country's nuclear deterrent. The offer, equivalent to $750 million, follows Paris's stance that it would not allow the company's strategic activities to be taken over by foreign actors. Atos, which holds contracts with the French army and serves as the IT partner for the Paris Olympics, is currently grappling with nearly five billion euros in debt.
Following the announcement, Atos' shares surged by more than 20 percent, although the company has lost a fifth of its value since the start of the year. The French government’s proposal is non-binding and aims to acquire Atos' activities in advanced computing, mission-critical systems, and cybersecurity. This move comes as Atos also engages in discussions with a consortium led by its largest shareholder, Onepoint, to stabilize its business.
