Bumble Engages Morgan Stanley for Sale Talks as Shares Fall 48%
BMBL•Bumble is working with Morgan Stanley on a potential sale process as its market value dropped to $388 million after shares fell 48 percent in the past year. In 2025, paying users declined over 11 percent to 3.7 million and revenue slid nearly 10 percent to $966 million.
1. Sale Process Exploration
Bumble has retained Morgan Stanley to advise on a potential sale, with Blackstone owning about 22% of shares. Discussions are private and no agreement is certain as the company evaluates whether to remain independent.
2. Declining Market Value and User Base
Over the past 12 months, shares tumbled 48%, cutting market value to $388 million. In 2025, paying users fell 11% to 3.7 million and revenue declined nearly 10% to $966 million, with first-quarter paying users down 20% year-on-year.
3. Strategic Response and Competition
To counter slowing growth, Bumble has increased average revenue per user through price hikes and expanded offerings with Bumble For Friends and Bizz. However, mounting competition, shifting user preferences and app fatigue challenge its women-first brand distinctiveness.
