Bumble in final negotiations to be taken private in $1 billion deal

Bumble is reportedly nearing a deal with Ithaca Holdings that would take the Austin-based dating app private at an estimated $1 billion valuation. The announcement triggered a surge in Bumble’s stock, which climbed about 52 percent to $3.86, while the company’s market cap had slipped to roughly $389 million earlier in the week. The prospective transaction follows earlier reports that Bumble was exploring a sale amid a slowdown in the online-dating sector.

Under CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd, who resumed the position in March 2025 after stepping down in January 2024, Bumble is rolling out AI-powered tools to boost user interaction. The firm faces competitive pressure from larger rivals such as Match Group, whose portfolio includes Tinder, Hinge and OkCupid, and is dealing with waning interest from younger users. The deal, if completed, would represent a significant restructuring for the company as it seeks to rekindle growth.