TechCrunch Finds a New Home: Yahoo Sells the Iconic Tech News Site to Regent
In a move that has sparked significant interest across the tech and media industries, Yahoo has announced the sale of TechCrunch, one of the most influential tech news platforms, to private equity firm Regent. The deal, finalized on March 21, 2025, marks another pivotal moment in the storied history of TechCrunch, a platform that has been a cornerstone of tech journalism since its founding in 2005.
For those familiar with TechCrunch’s journey, this sale is not entirely unexpected. The site has changed hands multiple times over the years, beginning with its acquisition by AOL in 2010. It later became part of Verizon Media following Verizon’s purchases of AOL and Yahoo in 2015 and 2017, respectively. Most recently, TechCrunch was under the umbrella of Apollo Global Management, which acquired Yahoo’s media division in 2021 for $5 billion. Now, Regent, a private equity firm with a growing portfolio of tech publications, has taken the reins.
Regent is no stranger to the tech media landscape. Just a day before the TechCrunch deal, the firm acquired other notable tech outlets, including PCWorld, Macworld, and TechAdvisor. This latest acquisition solidifies Regent’s position as a major player in the tech publishing world. While the financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, Yahoo has confirmed that it will retain a “small interest” in TechCrunch, signaling a continued, albeit limited, connection to the brand.
So, why did Yahoo decide to part ways with TechCrunch? According to Connie Loizos, the site’s editor-in-chief, the decision stemmed from a fundamental difference in identity. “Yahoo decided to sell TechCrunch because, in the end, our DNA is simply different from the rest of its portfolio,” Loizos explained. This sentiment highlights the unique role TechCrunch has played in the tech world—a role that may not have fully aligned with Yahoo’s broader media strategy.
The sale also comes at a time when Yahoo is streamlining its media assets. Earlier in 2024, the company laid off staff at Engadget, another prominent tech publication under its umbrella. These moves suggest a shift in focus for Yahoo, possibly toward more integrated or aligned properties within its portfolio.
For TechCrunch, the transition to Regent ownership opens up new possibilities. With Regent’s growing influence in the tech media space, the site could benefit from increased resources and strategic partnerships. However, it also raises questions about the future direction of the platform. Will Regent maintain TechCrunch’s editorial independence, or will the site undergo significant changes under new ownership?
One thing is certain: TechCrunch’s legacy as a trailblazer in tech journalism remains intact. From breaking news on startups to hosting its iconic Disrupt conferences, the site has been a vital resource for entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts alike. As it embarks on this new chapter, the tech community will be watching closely to see how Regent steers the ship.
In the ever-evolving world of media and technology, this sale is a reminder of the constant flux that defines the industry. For TechCrunch, it’s another milestone in a journey that has been anything but ordinary. And for its readers, it’s a moment to reflect on the importance of independent, high-quality journalism in an age of rapid change.
As Connie Loizos aptly put it, TechCrunch’s DNA is unique—and that’s precisely what makes it worth following, no matter who’s at the helm.
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