Confluent shareholders approved IBM’s $31 per share cash acquisition on February 12, 2026. The transaction represents a 34% premium and is scheduled to close in mid-2026 using existing liquidity. This move advances IBM’s strategic expansion into the artificial intelligence sector.

IBM stock rose 1.66% to close at $263.82 on February 13. This recovery followed a 4.87% decline to $259.52 on February 12. The shares recently retreated from a high of $298.93 during a multi-day technology sector sell-off.

The rebound aligns with broader market sentiment as the S&P 500 gained 0.64% following cooler Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. No company-specific catalysts were reported today. The price action reflects a recovery from recent inflationary concerns and the broader tech sector correction.