Oracle acquired PeopleSoft in 2005 for about $10.3 billion.
Oracle launched a hostile takeover attempt for PeopleSoft in 2003, shortly after PeopleSoft had agreed to acquire J.D. Edwards. The prolonged contest became one of the best-known takeover battles in the enterprise-software industry.
PeopleSoft’s board initially rejected Oracle’s offer, and the company adopted defensive measures, including a customer assurance program. After more than 18 months of negotiations and legal disputes, Oracle raised its offer and completed the acquisition in January 2005.
Oracle continued supporting PeopleSoft products and later integrated them into its broader applications strategy. The acquisition is distinct from Oracle’s 2004 purchase of PeopleSoft’s target, J.D. Edwards, because J.D. Edwards had already become part of PeopleSoft before Oracle bought the combined business.