CBIZ stockholders approve merger with Viking ParentCo at special meeting

CBIZ, Inc. (NYSE:CBZ) announced Tuesday that its stockholders have approved the company’s proposed merger with Viking ParentCo, Inc., following a virtual special meeting held the same day. The information is based on a press release statement included in a recent SEC filing.

At the special meeting, holders of 40,439,369 shares, representing 73.6% of the company’s outstanding shares as of the record date of September 16, 2026, participated either virtually or by proxy. The primary proposal, to adopt the Agreement and Plan of Merger with Viking ParentCo and its wholly owned subsidiary Viking MergerCo, received the necessary majority approval from shareholders. According to the final tally, 39,198,360 votes were cast in favor of the merger, 1,180,759 against, and 60,250 abstained.

A second proposal, which sought a non-binding advisory vote on compensation that may be paid to CBIZ’s named executive officers in connection with the merger, was also approved. There were 37,188,161 votes in favor, 3,130,664 against, and 120,544 abstentions.

A third proposal regarding the potential adjournment of the meeting was not presented, as sufficient votes were received to approve the merger agreement.

CBIZ stated it expects to close the merger transaction on or about November 2, 2026, subject to the terms of the merger agreement.

CBIZ, Inc. is incorporated in Delaware and its common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CBZ. The company’s principal executive offices are located in Independence, Ohio.

In other recent news, CBIZ, Inc. has announced that it will be acquired by Grant Thornton Advisors for $5 billion in cash. This significant transaction is set to enhance Grant Thornton’s global presence, positioning it as the fifth-largest provider of professional, tax, and advisory services in the United States. Following the announcement of the acquisition, William Blair downgraded CBIZ’s stock rating to hold from buy. The firm cited a reduced likelihood of a competing bid after the completion of CBIZ’s go-shop process. The expiration of the September 11 excluded party cutoff was noted as a factor in the downgrade. These developments are part of recent significant changes for CBIZ, impacting its future strategic direction.