Is Apple considering an investment in Twitter?
Apple, looking to boost its social media presence, may be considering a stake in micro-blogging site Twitter, according to the New York Times.
But according to the Wall Street Journal, that was so a year ago -- and nothing came of the talks.
The differing views came to light late Friday, with the Times saying people briefed on the matter said Apple “has talked with Twitter in recent months†about making a strategic investment in it.
The paper said Apple had considered an investment “in the hundreds of millions of dollars, one that could value Twitter at more than $10 billion.†It said the people declined to be named because the discussions were private.
Not so fast, the Journal quickly said. “People familiar with the matter said there are no current formal investment or acquisition discussions between the companies,†the paper said, adding that talks had ended.
Still, the New York Times said the discussions were “a sign that they may form a stronger partnership amid intensifying competition from the likes of Google and Facebook.â€
Either way, Twitter isn’t in need of money. During a visit to the Los Angeles Times this month, Twitter Chief Executive Dick Costolo said the San Francisco company had a “truckload of money in the bank.â€
He added that the company had seen its advertising, particularly in mobile, continue to grow -- a major feat given Facebook’s difficulty with mobile advertising.
Twitter is currently estimated to be worth $8.4 billion.
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