So far, while there is smoke, we have yet to see fire. One recent development which has seen the rumour mill starting to generate smoke is the reworking of the employment agreement of several Xilinx executives. The changes are said to make the future a lot rosier for the CEO and four others, should the company be acquired. Altera undertook a similar move in the lead up to its acquisition by Intel and therefore, speculation suggests, Xilinx is in the early stages of being acquired.
As I say, smoke, but – for the moment – no fire.
Who might be the interested company? Pick one from many, but deep pockets will be needed – the price tag being mentioned is at least $15bn. One name featuring in some of the rumours is Qualcomm.
Watch this space.