Highlights
BrowserStack, a software testing platform based in Mumbai, is implementing a $125 million share buyback initiative to enhance liquidity for its employees and earlier backers. This buyback will enable stakeholders, encompassing nearly 500 employees, to sell their shares back to the company. According to an ET report, approximately half of the total buyback fund has been set aside for employees, while the remaining amount will benefit early investors, including Accel.
Significant Capital Return
The company has indicated that the total capital returned to its shareholders across three separate buyback rounds will hit around $275 million. In September 2021, BrowserStack had disclosed its second ESOP buyback valued at $50 million, following its first ESOP buyback that took place in February 2021. BrowserStack achieved unicorn status in June 2021 after securing $200 million in Series B funding, which propelled its valuation to $4 billion.
About BrowserStack
Founded in 2011, BrowserStack delivers cloud-based software testing tools that allow developers and QA teams to test websites and mobile applications across an extensive array of devices, operating systems, and browsers. The company operates globally, with offices in Mumbai, San Francisco, New York, and Dublin. BrowserStack positions itself as one of the leading software testing platforms, facilitating over two million tests daily through 17 global data centres.
Recent Acquisitions
In May of the previous year, the company acquired Requestly, a tool for HTTP interception, API mocking, and debugging, although the financial details of the deal were not disclosed. Additionally, in 2024, it purchased the Berlin-based bug detection and reporting platform Bird Eats Bug for $20 million.
ESOP Buyback Trends
Meanwhile, ESOP buyback activities in 2025 showed a significant decline, amounting to just over $75 million. In contrast, total ESOP buybacks, payouts, and liquidity in 2024 were approximately $190 million, which is markedly lower than the $802 million recorded in 2023, $440 million in 2021, and $200 million in 2022.