Potential Fintech Mega-Deal: Stripe Considers Acquiring PayPal
Fintech startup Stripe is reportedly exploring a potential acquisition of all or parts of PayPal Holdings. As per Bloomberg’s report on February 24, 2026, the discussions are in the preliminary stages and could involve purchasing PayPal’s entire business or specific segments such as Braintree or Venmo.
Upon the news, PayPal’s stock surged nearly 7%, bringing its market value to approximately $43.3 billion. This surge comes amidst a challenging period for PayPal, which has seen a loss of more than 19% of its value in 2026 and nearly a third since 2025, due to slowing growth and increasing competition in the digital payments market.
The potential deal emerges as Stripe hit a $159 billion valuation following a recent employee tender offer, making it one of the most valuable private companies globally. This coincides with leadership changes at PayPal, where new CEO Enrique Lores is scheduled to take over on March 1 after the board removed Alex Chriss due to slow progress in transforming the company. If completed, the acquisition would represent a significant consolidation in the global payments industry. Both companies declined to comment on the reports.
Source: CNBC