Getty and Shutterstock announce $3.7B merger to dominate stock photos

Getty merges with Shutterstock for $3.7B, forming Getty Images Holdings.

: Getty Images plans to acquire Shutterstock in a $3.7 billion cash and stock deal, creating Getty Images Holdings. The combined entity aims to lead the stock media industry, though regulatory approval is needed. Shutterstock's shareholders have various options for compensation, and, if approved, Getty's stockholders would hold a majority stake. The merger comes as AI-generated content threatens the traditional stock photo market.

Getty Images has announced its agreement to acquire Shutterstock, a rival in the stock media industry, for an estimated $3.7 billion in cash and stock. Once finalized, the unified company, Getty Images Holdings, aims to dominate the stock photo sector, pending regulatory approval.

Founded by Jon Oringer in 2003, Shutterstock has amassed over 530 million assets by September 2024. In this acquisition, Shutterstock shareholders can choose from three different compensation options per share they own, with Getty Images stockholders expected to control approximately 54.7% of the combined entity.

This merger takes place at a critical time for the stock photo industry, amidst challenges posed by AI-generated content. While services like Shutterstock have initiated licensing deals with AI firms, the rise of AI could potentially disrupt the current market dynamics significantly.