Gothenburg-based Recorded Future sold for SEK 27.5 billion
The Swedish security company Recorded Future, with roots in Gothenburg and a strong connection to Chalmers University of Technology, has been acquired by Mastercard for a total of SEK 27.5 billion. The deal not only marks a significant step for both the company and Mastercard but also highlights Gothenburg’s tech scene, which is increasingly making mark on the global tech industry.
Recorded Future was founded in 2009 in Gothenburg by Christopher Ahlberg and Staffan Truvé and has since grown to become a global leader in threat intelligence and cybersecurity. The company offers its customers real-time information on threats and attacks that help organizations protect their systems and data. Their innovative use of machine learning and advanced data analysis methods has made them an indispensable player in the cybersecurity sector. Recorded Future is the world’s largest threat intelligence company, with more than 1,900 clients in 75 countries, including the governments of 45 countries and over 50% of the Fortune 100 companies.
That Recorded Future has its roots in Gothenburg is no coincidence. The founders, with strong ties to Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg, have been part of the city’s tech ecosystem, which has continued to grow in significance. The company also has a product development office in Gothenburg. In recent years, Gothenburg has become a melting pot for startups and innovations, and Recorded Future is an excellent example of how local expertise can scale globally. The company is undoubtedly one of Sweden’s most successful startups, despite being relatively unknown to many Swedes.
“Fifteen years ago, we created Recorded Future with a simple goal to secure the world with intelligence. By joining forces with Mastercard, we see an opportunity to help more businesses and governments determine the steps to reach their full potential – and to make it possible for everyone to feel safer in their daily lives”, said Christopher Ahlberg, CEO of Recorded Future in a press release.
For Gothenburg’s tech scene, the deal highlights the city's relevance on the global stage for technological innovation.
"It is a reminder of the incredible capacity that exists within the region and its potential to be a leader in the global tech industry," says Andreas Göthberg, Head of Business and Entrepreneurship Development at Business Region Göteborg.
Recorded Future
- Founded: 2009
- Founders: Chalmers alumni Christopher Ahlberg and Staffan Truvé (other co-founders: Jan Sparud and Erik Wistrand)
- Headquarters: Somerville, outside Boston, USA (with roots in Gothenburg)
- Business: Cybersecurity, threat intelligence
- Clients: More than 1 900 clients in 75 countries, including the governments of 45 countries and over 50% of the Fortune 100 companies
- Acquired by: Mastercard
- Purchase price: USD 2.65 billion, approximately SEK 27.5 billion
Learn more
