There have been rumors circulating that California-based online mega-company Google is planning an acquisition of Akamai Technologies. However, now there are denials coming from insiders. The rumors of a deal had caused a 17 percent spike in Akamai stock, but the deniers say there is no basis for the deal rumors. These insiders sought not to be identified.

The rumors of a deal were not entirely unreasonable. Akamai has been a successful company, speeding delivery of online content for well-heeled online businesses like Netflix and Apple. Many observers believe Google could use Akamai's technology to help it turn YouTube into an online television alternative.

San Diego mergers and acquisitions attorneys noted that Akamai is frequently the subject of acquisition rumors. In fact, from 2005 to 2010, Akamai was more frequenly rumored to be an acquisition target than any other company in America.

Akamai will probably be the subject of merger and acquisition rumors again. Its share price has fallen by 50 percent in the last year, meaning it is a more attractive target. Some experts say it could be in the sights of IBM or Verizon.

Because Akamai helps make the internet and digital video run faster, the company is a rare holdover from the bursting of the dotcom bubble. Akamai once traded above $300 and seemed invincible, but since then has become a perpetual subject of acquisition rumors.

Source: Bloomberg Businessweek "Google Is Said Not to Plan Akamai Technologies Acquisition" Oct. 13, 2011