Yesterday, Shutterstock announced the acquisition of WebDAM for an undisclosed sum. Acquisitions are always tricky things to interpret. Some are good signs for industry--strong companies being recognized for great performance. Some are firesales by companies on the verge of bankruptcy. Some are neutral moves: industry consolidation, vertical integration, disintermediation. And regardless of the reason, acquisitions can result in a number of outcomes--both intended and unintended--for both companies and their customers. So what does the WebDAM acquisition by Shutterstock signify, both for the companies involved and the larger Digital Asset Management market?
