GoPro pivots to AI data centers via merger, fueling a 40% stock jump

GoPro said it will merge with private photonics company Starman Optical to expand into AI data center and defense markets, in a deal that includes a $285 million cash payment ($1.14 per share) and leaves the stock Nasdaq-listed. The announcement sent GoPro shares up about 40%. Notable investors include Markiplier with an 8.5% stake and BlackRock at 6.4%. GoPro will repay $92 million of debt at closing and will continue supporting its consumer products and cloud platform while pursuing a broader imaging/optics and AI infrastructure roadmap.