Google’s $2.4 B HALO Deal Shows AI Startups Are Hired, Not Acquired
Google paid $2.4 B to hire Windsurf’s team and license its IP, a deal Kevin Kwok dubs “HALO” (Hire and License Out). HALOs let giants snap up talent and technology instantly while the startup keeps running under new leadership. The model may redefine AI M&A and founder exits.