Universal Health strikes $835 million Talkspace deal in mental health push

By Padmanabhan Ananthan

March 9 (Reuters) – Hospital operator Universal Health Services said on Monday it would acquire virtual healthcare provider ​Talkspace in a deal valued at $835 ‌million, amid rising demand for behavioral health services.

Universal Health Services will pay $5.25 per share for Talkspace, a 10.29% premium to the stock’s last close. Shares ‌of ​Talkspace were up more than ⁠7%, while Universal ⁠Health’s shares fell 5% in early trading.

Here are some details:

(Reporting by Padmanabhan Ananthan in Bengaluru; Editing by ​Sriraj Kalluvila)