TLDR
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CBIZ stock jumped 17.67% after Grant Thornton announced a $5 billion purchase.
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The $55 CBIZ out-of-the-money offer values it at a premium of 54% to its 30-day average price.
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The merger will create the fifth-largest professional services provider in the United States.
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Grant Thornton plans to expand AI-powered services throughout CBIZ’s operations.
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CBIZ may seek better offers during the shopping period ending August 27, 2026.
CBIZ (CBZ) shares jumped 17.67% to $54.95 after Grant Thornton Advisors announced a $5 billion all-cash acquisition. The offering values each CBIZ share at $55 and adds a strong premium to recent trading levels. Furthermore, the transaction will create the fifth-largest professional services provider in the United States after its closing.
Grant Thornton is making a cash offer of $55
Grant Thornton Advisors has agreed to acquire CBIZ in a $5 billion deal. Under the agreement, CBIZ shareholders will receive $55 in cash for each common share they own. This price represents a roughly 54% premium to the 30-day average CBIZ stock price.
New Mountain Capital will provide additional equity after supporting Grant Thornton’s growth strategy Since May 2024. The private equity firm previously led an investment that helped expand Grant Thornton’s US operations. The new financing will support the purchase and the combined company’s broader growth plans.
CBIZ’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the agreement and recommended shareholder support for the transaction. The companies expect to close the acquisition during the fourth quarter of 2026. Closing still requires shareholder approval, regulatory approval and other standard conditions.
The combined company is targeting a larger scale
The merger will create a US Business with more than $5 billion in annual domestic revenue. It will also form the fifth largest provider of professional, tax and advisory services in the country. This deal ranks as the largest combination in the industry in more than 25 years.
The broader multinational platform will operate across more than 20 countries and regions after the acquisition. It is expected to generate revenues of approximately $7.5 billion and employ more than 34,500 professionals worldwide. Grant Thornton expects the larger network to enhance cross-border services and expand specialist capabilities.
Grant Thornton also plans to expand its technology platform across CBIZ’s client base. The company recently announced a $1 billion investment in artificial intelligence and advanced technology. As a result, the combined company expects to improve service delivery, employee productivity and customer support.
The benefits unit faces a separate future
Grant Thornton plans to spin off CBIZ’s benefits and insurance services segment following the completion of the acquisition. New Mountain Capital will back the unit as a new independent company. The business will focus on insurance, retirement, payroll and related services for existing clients.
CBIZ may seek alternative offers during the shopping period ending August 27, 2026. Its advisors may solicit, review and negotiate competing acquisition proposals during that period. The Board of Directors may accept a superior proposal under the terms set forth in the Merger Agreement.
Grant Thornton will own CBIZ immediately after the transaction is completed. CBIZ shares will then cease trading and depart New York Stock Exchange. Until closing, the company will continue to operate under its current structure and public listing.
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