TechCrunch, a Silicon Valley-based technology-focused media outlet for nearly two decades, is changing ownership once again. According to the company, Yahoo has struck a deal to sell the influential tech news site to Regent, a media investment firm targeting to boost its presence in digital publishing.

Regent’s Growing Media Portfolio

Regent’s acquisition of TechCrunch followed its recent purchase of Foundry, a company that owns several well-known tech publications such as PCWorld, Macworld, and TechAdvisor. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, though it is confirmed that no regulatory approval was required—suggesting the deal’s value was under $100 million.

TechCrunch, founded in 2005 by Michael Arrington and Keith Teare, has experienced multiple ownership changes. It first became part of AOL in 2010 and then transitioned under Yahoo when Verizon acquired AOL. In 2021, Verizon sold Yahoo (along with TechCrunch) to Apollo Global Management. This latest transaction marks yet another shift, raising questions about the publication's long-term editorial direction.

A Newsroom in Transition

Beyond ownership changes, TechCrunch has undergone significant internal shifts. Over the past 18 months, the publication has lost much of its senior leadership and editorial staff.

Many were laid off, while others left voluntarily. The departures included senior editors, reporters, marketing managers, and sales personnel, signaling a period of uncertainty for the publication.

Yahoo’s Changing Priorities

Yahoo, now owned by Apollo, continues to streamline its operations. The company has been focusing on its key consumer platforms, such as Yahoo Mail, Yahoo Sports, Yahoo Finance, and Yahoo News, while leaning more heavily on content aggregation.

Despite selling TechCrunch, Yahoo stated that it will maintain a long-term partnership with Regent and TechCrunch, aimed at audience expansion and financial growth. While Regent’s intentions appear to align with fostering growth in tech journalism, questions remain about how TechCrunch will evolve under its new ownership.

Given the publication’s history of providing deep insights for tech investors and entrepreneurs, industry watchers will be keen to see whether Regent preserves that legacy or steers it in a new direction. One thing is certain—TechCrunch’s story is far from over.

Source: Finance Magnates