International Business Machines (IBM), a multinational information technology and consulting company, is reportedly nearing a deal to acquire HashiCorp, a leading multi-cloud infrastructure automation software provider, for USD 6.4 billion. IBM intends to bolster its cloud offerings with the acquisition of HashiCorp

HashiCorp is the creator of Terraform, one of the most sought-after infrastructure automation software. It specializes in creating solutions that address real-world IT problems in multi-cloud environments, encompassing infrastructure provisioning, security, networking, and application deployment.

Analyst QuickTake: IBM’s strategy includes strengthening and promoting hybrid cloud solutions and AI adoption and pursuing M&A opportunities to serve clients better. Its series of acquisitions focusing on AI and hybrid and multi-cloud solutions include Manta , Apptio , Databand , and notably RedHat . This move could strengthen IBM's competitive position in the cloud market. HashiCorp is renowned for its tools that automate the provisioning, securing, and running of cloud infrastructure, which would complement and enhance IBM's existing cloud offerings.