In a sweeping strategic reshuffle, Global Payments has announced a landmark agreement to acquire Worldpay for a net purchase price of $22.7 billion while simultaneously divesting its Issuer Solutions business to FIS for $13.5 billion.
Global Payments to acquire Worldpay
The transactions, unveiled on 17 April, mark a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution, positioning it as a pure-play global commerce solutions provider.
The deal will significantly expand Global Payments’ capabilities across the full merchant spectrum, from small businesses to large enterprises, while reinforcing its presence in high-growth verticals such as ecommerce and integrated payments.
With more than 6 million customers and annualised transaction volume of $3.7 trillion spanning 175 countries, the combined entity will command one of the most extensive global footprints in the payments industry.
Embedded and Integrated Payments
Crucially, the acquisition also strengthens Global Payments’ ability to deliver embedded and integrated payments to platform partners, aided by the addition of Worldpay’s Payrix offering.
Meanwhile, the divestment of Issuer Solutions not only streamlines the company’s operations but enables Global Payments to double down on its core acquiring and software capabilities.
Compelling Financial Profile
The deal is underpinned by a compelling financial profile.
The combined company is expected to generate $12.5 billion in adjusted net revenue and $6.5 billion in EBITDA on a pro forma basis in 2025.
Global Payments anticipates $600 million in annual cost synergies within three years post-closing, alongside at least $200 million in incremental revenues, driven by a broader product suite, accelerated innovation, and global distribution.
Funding for the acquisition will be sourced from proceeds of the Issuer Solutions sale, cash on hand, and $7.7 billion in newly issued debt.
Notably, GTCR will receive Global Payments stock valued at $97 per share, representing around 15% of the company’s pro forma equity.
The transaction also establishes a new commercial alliance between Global Payments and FIS, extending their collaboration across a wide array of financial technology offerings, including embedded commerce, risk and fraud, and issuer processing.
Pending regulatory approval, both transactions are expected to close in H1 2026.
For Global Payments, this deal cements its strategic repositioning as a global powerhouse in merchant services, software, and commerce enablement – and sets a new benchmark in the rapidly evolving landscape of digital payments.
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