Communications and Networking
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Representing the Leaders Then and Now
Wilson Sonsini represented communications and networking pioneers, and continues to work with leaders in the industry today.
Wilson Sonsini routinely counsels communications and networking companies focused on advancing and improving the interaction between individuals, computers, and other technologies.
Our communications and networking clients are engaged in all aspects of the industry, including wireline and wireless voice and data, broadband, video, and satellite communications. Our clients' business activities involve the manufacturing and marketing of computer networking equipment; the expansion of underlying networking technologies such as communications-specific semiconductors and optical switches; the deployment of networking systems; and the development of wireless equipment, software, and services.
Overview
Wilson Sonsini routinely counsels communications and networking companies focused on advancing and improving the interaction between individuals, computers, and other technologies.
Our communications and networking clients are engaged in all aspects of the industry, including wireline and wireless voice and data, broadband, video, and satellite communications. Our clients' business activities involve the manufacturing and marketing of computer networking equipment; the expansion of underlying networking technologies such as communications-specific semiconductors and optical switches; the deployment of networking systems; and the development of wireless equipment, software, and services.
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Centerview Partners as Financial Advisor to Special Committee of Charter Communications
On November 13, 2024, Charter Communications and Liberty Broadband Corporation announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Charter has agreed to acquire Liberty Broadband in an all-stock transaction. Under the terms of the agreement, each holder of Liberty Broadband Series A common stock, Series B common stock, and Series C common stock will receive 0.236 of a share of Charter common stock per share of Liberty Broadband common stock held. Liberty Broadband's principal assets currently consist of approximately 45.6 million common shares of Charter and its subsidiary GCI, Alaska's largest communications provider. Liberty Broadband has agreed to spin off its GCI business prior to the closing of the acquisition of Liberty Broadband by Charter.
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Yext on $125 Million Acquisition of Hearsay Systems
On June 10, 2024, Yext, Inc., the leading digital presence platform for multi-location brands, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Hearsay Systems, a global leader in digital client engagement for financial services, for $125 million and up to an additional $95 million if certain performance targets are achieved. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati advised Yext on the transaction.
Bylined Articles
The Blake Brief: A Guide to ISAM
SatMagazine’s latest Blake Brief article, titled "A Guide to ISAM" and authored by Curt Blake, Joshua Gruenspecht, and Peter Bratton, discusses the FCC's proposed new rules to facilitate the licensing of space stations involved in in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM). The proposal aims to update regulations to facilitate ISAM operations addressing key issues such as application processes, spectrum allocation, and fees, with the goal of supporting the growing ISAM industry through measures like spectrum allocations and adjusted bond packages, while also acknowledging concerns regarding burdens for U.S. operators servicing foreign space stations.
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Ibotta on $577 Million IPO at $2.7 Billion Valuation
On April 18, 2024, Ibotta, the digital marketing company backed by Walmart, listed on the New York Stock Exchange under ticker symbol “IBTA” and raised about $557.3 million in an upsized initial public offering. Denver-based Ibotta and a group of its shareholders sold 6.56 million shares for $88 each, according to Bloomberg, bringing Ibotta’s valuation to about $2.67 billion. The offering is expected to close on April 22, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati represented Ibotta in the transaction.
Client Highlights
Firm Advises RapidSOS on $150 Million Financing Round
On March 5, 2024, intelligent safety company RapidSOS announced an additional $75 million raise led by funds and accounts managed by BlackRock, which closed the company’s latest round at $150 million. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati advised RapidSOS on the transaction.
Also participating in the round were NightDragon, BAM Elevate, Insight Partners, the private investment division of Balyasny Asset Management, Manhattan Venture Partners, Acrew Capital, and Harmonic Growth Partners.
RapidSOS connects life-saving data from more than 540 million devices in our nation's homes, schools, trains, cars, buildings, and personal devices to over 16,000 public safety agencies and nearly 1 million first responders, leading to a faster and more accurate emergency response that saves lives and reduces the cost of recovery. In 2023, RapidSOS's Intelligent Safety platform processed over 3 billion data feeds used by highly trained operational teams and first responders to manage 171 million emergencies, covering over 99 percent of the U.S. population.
Also participating in the round were NightDragon, BAM Elevate, Insight Partners, the private investment division of Balyasny Asset Management, Manhattan Venture Partners, Acrew Capital, and Harmonic Growth Partners.
RapidSOS connects life-saving data from more than 540 million devices in our nation's homes, schools, trains, cars, buildings, and personal devices to over 16,000 public safety agencies and nearly 1 million first responders, leading to a faster and more accurate emergency response that saves lives and reduces the cost of recovery. In 2023, RapidSOS's Intelligent Safety platform processed over 3 billion data feeds used by highly trained operational teams and first responders to manage 171 million emergencies, covering over 99 percent of the U.S. population.
Insights
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Centerview Partners as Financial Advisor to Special Committee of Charter Communications
On November 13, 2024, Charter Communications and Liberty Broadband Corporation announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Charter has agreed to acquire Liberty Broadband in an all-stock transaction. Under the terms of the agreement, each holder of Liberty Broadband Series A common stock, Series B common stock, and Series C common stock will receive 0.236 of a share of Charter common stock per share of Liberty Broadband common stock held. Liberty Broadband's principal assets currently consist of approximately 45.6 million common shares of Charter and its subsidiary GCI, Alaska's largest communications provider. Liberty Broadband has agreed to spin off its GCI business prior to the closing of the acquisition of Liberty Broadband by Charter.
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Yext on $125 Million Acquisition of Hearsay Systems
On June 10, 2024, Yext, Inc., the leading digital presence platform for multi-location brands, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Hearsay Systems, a global leader in digital client engagement for financial services, for $125 million and up to an additional $95 million if certain performance targets are achieved. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati advised Yext on the transaction.
Bylined Articles
The Blake Brief: A Guide to ISAM
SatMagazine’s latest Blake Brief article, titled "A Guide to ISAM" and authored by Curt Blake, Joshua Gruenspecht, and Peter Bratton, discusses the FCC's proposed new rules to facilitate the licensing of space stations involved in in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM). The proposal aims to update regulations to facilitate ISAM operations addressing key issues such as application processes, spectrum allocation, and fees, with the goal of supporting the growing ISAM industry through measures like spectrum allocations and adjusted bond packages, while also acknowledging concerns regarding burdens for U.S. operators servicing foreign space stations.
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Ibotta on $577 Million IPO at $2.7 Billion Valuation
On April 18, 2024, Ibotta, the digital marketing company backed by Walmart, listed on the New York Stock Exchange under ticker symbol “IBTA” and raised about $557.3 million in an upsized initial public offering. Denver-based Ibotta and a group of its shareholders sold 6.56 million shares for $88 each, according to Bloomberg, bringing Ibotta’s valuation to about $2.67 billion. The offering is expected to close on April 22, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati represented Ibotta in the transaction.
Client Highlights
Firm Advises RapidSOS on $150 Million Financing Round
On March 5, 2024, intelligent safety company RapidSOS announced an additional $75 million raise led by funds and accounts managed by BlackRock, which closed the company’s latest round at $150 million. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati advised RapidSOS on the transaction.
Also participating in the round were NightDragon, BAM Elevate, Insight Partners, the private investment division of Balyasny Asset Management, Manhattan Venture Partners, Acrew Capital, and Harmonic Growth Partners.
RapidSOS connects life-saving data from more than 540 million devices in our nation's homes, schools, trains, cars, buildings, and personal devices to over 16,000 public safety agencies and nearly 1 million first responders, leading to a faster and more accurate emergency response that saves lives and reduces the cost of recovery. In 2023, RapidSOS's Intelligent Safety platform processed over 3 billion data feeds used by highly trained operational teams and first responders to manage 171 million emergencies, covering over 99 percent of the U.S. population.
Also participating in the round were NightDragon, BAM Elevate, Insight Partners, the private investment division of Balyasny Asset Management, Manhattan Venture Partners, Acrew Capital, and Harmonic Growth Partners.
RapidSOS connects life-saving data from more than 540 million devices in our nation's homes, schools, trains, cars, buildings, and personal devices to over 16,000 public safety agencies and nearly 1 million first responders, leading to a faster and more accurate emergency response that saves lives and reduces the cost of recovery. In 2023, RapidSOS's Intelligent Safety platform processed over 3 billion data feeds used by highly trained operational teams and first responders to manage 171 million emergencies, covering over 99 percent of the U.S. population.
Affiliated Programs
London Forum on Global Economic Sanctions
The London Forum on Global Economic Sanctions 2023 program will provide attendees with the most up-to-date developments in economic sanctions from leading financial services organizations as well as global exporters. This is a must-attend for sanctions and financial crime prevention experts.
Affiliated Programs
IAPP Europe Data Protection Congress
Europe’s top gathering of data protection professionals is returning for its 12th year in Brussels. The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) Europe Data Protection Congress 2023 is the place for delegates to gain insights and working knowledge that will allow you to set a course for the future of your data protection operation. Wilson Sonsini is proud to sponsor this year’s event. To learn more about the conference, and the IAPP, click here.
Affiliated Programs
GP Bullhound Allstars 2023
Allstars recognizes and celebrates the successes and achievements within Europe’s technology universe, drawing attention to those who are shaping the industry’s future and creating the global winners of tomorrow. Dubbed the ‘Oscars of the tech world’ Allstars has stood strong as one of Europe’s leading events for the last 20 years.
Speaking Engagements
Seedlegal’s Raise Your “A” Game
Join Seedlegal’s for a tactical and informative panel discussion on the journey of raising seed funding all the way to series A. This event, hosted with HSBC Innovation Banking and in partnership with Hiscox and Crowdcube, brings together a group of seasoned entrepreneurs, angel investors, and venture capitalists who will willingly share their personal triumphs and failures, giving you data-driven insights into the world of startup funding.
Events
Affiliated Programs
London Forum on Global Economic Sanctions
The London Forum on Global Economic Sanctions 2023 program will provide attendees with the most up-to-date developments in economic sanctions from leading financial services organizations as well as global exporters. This is a must-attend for sanctions and financial crime prevention experts.
Affiliated Programs
IAPP Europe Data Protection Congress
Europe’s top gathering of data protection professionals is returning for its 12th year in Brussels. The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) Europe Data Protection Congress 2023 is the place for delegates to gain insights and working knowledge that will allow you to set a course for the future of your data protection operation. Wilson Sonsini is proud to sponsor this year’s event. To learn more about the conference, and the IAPP, click here.
Affiliated Programs
GP Bullhound Allstars 2023
Allstars recognizes and celebrates the successes and achievements within Europe’s technology universe, drawing attention to those who are shaping the industry’s future and creating the global winners of tomorrow. Dubbed the ‘Oscars of the tech world’ Allstars has stood strong as one of Europe’s leading events for the last 20 years.
Speaking Engagements
Seedlegal’s Raise Your “A” Game
Join Seedlegal’s for a tactical and informative panel discussion on the journey of raising seed funding all the way to series A. This event, hosted with HSBC Innovation Banking and in partnership with Hiscox and Crowdcube, brings together a group of seasoned entrepreneurs, angel investors, and venture capitalists who will willingly share their personal triumphs and failures, giving you data-driven insights into the world of startup funding.
Lester Ang
Partner
Lester Ang is a corporate and securities partner in the Palo Alto office of Wilson Sonsini, where he works with private and public technology and life sciences companies through all stages of their growth, as well as with venture capital firms and private equity firms.
Megan J. Baier
Partner
Megan represents technology and life sciences clients in corporate transactional matters.
Mark B. Baudler
Partner
Mark is a corporate law veteran, having advised start-ups and mature public companies for more than 25 years.
Adam Shaun Bloom
Partner
Adam's corporate law practice focuses on complex transactions and deals involving novel structures.
Steve E. Bochner
Partner
Steve has over 39 years of corporate law experience, serving as lead counsel for many of Silicon Valley's most prominent companies.
Amy H. Candido
Partner
Amy Candido is a trial lawyer who focuses on high-stakes, complex intellectual property matters. She has extensive experience litigating patents, trade secrets, copyrights, and other IP in “bet the company” cases nationwide on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants. Amy has tried numerous jury and bench trials, securing courtroom victories in a variety of difficult cases. Her trial victories include The National Law Journal’s Top Verdict of 2014 and three complete defense verdicts in the Eastern District of Texas.
Robert G. Day
Partner
Bob represents companies and financial services entities, from innovative entrepreneurs to investment banks and venture capital and private equity firms.
Brian Dillavou
Partner
Brian Dillavou is a corporate partner in the Austin office of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, where he represents start-ups and emerging growth companies from incorporation and early-stage financings through strategic exits such as initial public offerings and mergers and acquisitions. His experience includes advising start-up and early-stage businesses on corporate legal issues, venture capital and other financings, stock options and other compensation matters, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets transactions, including initial public offerings. He also represents institutional investors and financial institutions in venture capital financings, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets transactions, including initial public offerings and other equity and debt financings. Brian has particular experience working with clients in the technology, fintech, and life sciences sectors.
U.P. Peter Eng
Partner
Specializes in strategic patent and innovation counseling for technology start-ups.
People
Lester Ang
Partner
Lester Ang is a corporate and securities partner in the Palo Alto office of Wilson Sonsini, where he works with private and public technology and life sciences companies through all stages of their growth, as well as with venture capital firms and private equity firms.
Megan J. Baier
Partner
Megan represents technology and life sciences clients in corporate transactional matters.
Mark B. Baudler
Partner
Mark is a corporate law veteran, having advised start-ups and mature public companies for more than 25 years.
Adam Shaun Bloom
Partner
Adam's corporate law practice focuses on complex transactions and deals involving novel structures.
Steve E. Bochner
Partner
Steve has over 39 years of corporate law experience, serving as lead counsel for many of Silicon Valley's most prominent companies.
Amy H. Candido
Partner
Amy Candido is a trial lawyer who focuses on high-stakes, complex intellectual property matters. She has extensive experience litigating patents, trade secrets, copyrights, and other IP in “bet the company” cases nationwide on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants. Amy has tried numerous jury and bench trials, securing courtroom victories in a variety of difficult cases. Her trial victories include The National Law Journal’s Top Verdict of 2014 and three complete defense verdicts in the Eastern District of Texas.
Robert G. Day
Partner
Bob represents companies and financial services entities, from innovative entrepreneurs to investment banks and venture capital and private equity firms.
Brian Dillavou
Partner
Brian Dillavou is a corporate partner in the Austin office of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, where he represents start-ups and emerging growth companies from incorporation and early-stage financings through strategic exits such as initial public offerings and mergers and acquisitions. His experience includes advising start-up and early-stage businesses on corporate legal issues, venture capital and other financings, stock options and other compensation matters, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets transactions, including initial public offerings. He also represents institutional investors and financial institutions in venture capital financings, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets transactions, including initial public offerings and other equity and debt financings. Brian has particular experience working with clients in the technology, fintech, and life sciences sectors.
U.P. Peter Eng
Partner
Specializes in strategic patent and innovation counseling for technology start-ups.
Recent Insights
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Centerview Partners as Financial Advisor to Special Committee of Charter Communications
On November 13, 2024, Charter Communications and Liberty Broadband Corporation announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Charter has agreed to acquire Liberty Broadband in an all-stock transaction. Under the terms of the agreement, each holder of Liberty Broadband Series A common stock, Series B common stock, and Series C common stock will receive 0.236 of a share of Charter common stock per share of Liberty Broadband common stock held. Liberty Broadband's principal assets currently consist of approximately 45.6 million common shares of Charter and its subsidiary GCI, Alaska's largest communications provider. Liberty Broadband has agreed to spin off its GCI business prior to the closing of the acquisition of Liberty Broadband by Charter.
Learn More
Client Highlights
Wilson Sonsini Advises Yext on $125 Million Acquisition of Hearsay Systems
On June 10, 2024, Yext, Inc., the leading digital presence platform for multi-location brands, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Hearsay Systems, a global leader in digital client engagement for financial services, for $125 million and up to an additional $95 million if certain performance targets are achieved. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati advised Yext on the transaction.
Learn More
Recent Events
Affiliated Programs
London Forum on Global Economic Sanctions
The London Forum on Global Economic Sanctions 2023 program will provide attendees with the most up-to-date developments in economic sanctions from leading financial services organizations as well as global exporters. This is a must-attend for sanctions and financial crime prevention experts.
Learn More
Affiliated Programs
IAPP Europe Data Protection Congress
Europe’s top gathering of data protection professionals is returning for its 12th year in Brussels. The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) Europe Data Protection Congress 2023 is the place for delegates to gain insights and working knowledge that will allow you to set a course for the future of your data protection operation. Wilson Sonsini is proud to sponsor this year’s event. To learn more about the conference, and the IAPP, click here.
Learn More
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