Microsoft said on Monday it was buying the professional social network LinkedIn for $26.2 billion in cash, a move that helps refocus the US tech giant around cloud computing and services, AFP reports.
"This deal brings together the world's leading professional cloud with the world's leading professional network," Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella said in a statement.
According to a statement from the two firms, LinkedIn "will retain its distinct brand, culture and independence", with Jeff Weiner staying on as CEO.