Bending Spoons Completes $500 Million Acquisition of Eventbrite Amid Industry Shifts

Transforming a Once-Dominant Event Technology Player

Bending Spoons, recognized for revitalizing struggling tech companies, has officially acquired Eventbrite for approximately $500 million. This price reflects a steep drop from Eventbrite’s peak valuation of $1.76 billion at its 2018 initial public offering.

Founded in 2006 by Julia and Kevin Hartz alongside Renaud Visage, Eventbrite established itself as a key player in event ticketing and management. Prior to going public, the company raised nearly $330 million from top-tier investors such as Sequoia Capital and Tiger global management.

A Commitment to Sustainable Growth Over Quick Flips

Unlike many private equity firms that aim for rapid asset turnover, Bending Spoons embraces a “hold indefinitely” strategy. Their plan focuses on boosting profitability thru operational efficiency improvements,revising pricing models,and enhancing product features.Valued around $11 billion after securing $270 million in funding during October 2025, Bending Spoons continues to broaden its portfolio with this strategic purchase.

The Emergence of “Venture zombie” Investment Strategies

This acquisition exemplifies an increasing trend where investors acquire stagnant or underperforming software companies-often labeled “venture zombies”-with the goal of long-term revival rather than quick exits. Other firms adopting similar approaches include Constellation Software, Curious Holdings, Tiny.com, SaaS.group, Arising Ventures, and Calm Capital.

According to Andrew Dumont from Curious Holdings: “Our method involves acquiring undervalued yet fundamentally sound businesses to achieve profit margins between 20% and 30% through targeted operational enhancements.”

Financial Overview: Stable Revenues Coupled With Favorable Valuation

Eventbrite maintained consistent annual revenues near $325 million during fiscal years 2023 and 2024 based on audited reports. The acquisition price equates to roughly 1.7 times trailing twelve months’ revenue of about $295 million-a conservative multiple given the company’s market presence.

The transaction provides existing shareholders with an attractive cash offer of $4.50 per share-representing an notable premium exceeding 80% over the previous closing stock price near $2.48 per share.

A New Era for Ticketing Platforms Amid Market Consolidation

This deal underscores ongoing consolidation within the event technology sector as platforms adapt to shifting consumer behaviors following the pandemic era. For instance, while virtual events experienced explosive growth during global lockdowns-with platforms like Hopin seeing rapid expansion-the current landscape favors hybrid event models blending live attendance with digital participation worldwide.

Upcoming Industry Developments & Trends shaping Events Technology

• San Francisco Tech Summit: Set for October 13-15,2026; this conference will highlight cutting-edge innovations revolutionizing media and entertainment industries globally.
• Evolving User Expectations: Growing demand for personalized event experiences is driving new feature rollouts among ticketing services like Eventbrite under fresh leadership.
• Sustainability Focus: Increasing environmental awareness encourages organizers toward eco-pleasant practices supported by technological advancements introduced by rejuvenated platforms.