Palo Alto Networks Plummets Amid $2.69 Billion Surge in Trading Volume as $20 Billion CyberArk Deal Looms Ranking 28th in Market Activity

Palo Alto Networks (PANW) saw a 5.21% decline in its stock price on July 29, 2025, despite a surge in trading activity. The cybersecurity firm recorded a daily trading volume of $2.69 billion, a 517.16% increase from the previous day, ranking it 28th in market activity.

Reports indicate PANW is in advanced negotiations to acquire Israeli cybersecurity company CyberArk (CYBR) in a deal potentially exceeding $20 billion. The Wall Street Journal cited unnamed sources stating the transaction could be finalized within days. Such a merger would align with PANW’s strategic focus on expanding its AI-driven security capabilities, as highlighted by Jefferies analysts in a recent note. The proposed acquisition would follow PANW’s earlier 2025 purchase of Protect AI, another cybersecurity firm specializing in AI and machine learning.

While both companies have declined to comment on the discussions, industry analysts suggest the move could strengthen PANW’s position in the consolidating cybersecurity sector. Jefferies reiterated a $235 price target for PANW, emphasizing the importance of dominating the AI security landscape. The deal would also reflect broader industry trends, including Alphabet’s recent $32 billion acquisition of Israeli firm Wiz and heightened competition among cybersecurity platforms.

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