Software and computer services group Computer Associates is to acquire Platinum Technology International for $3.5 billion (#3.25 billion).

The bid for Platinum, which provides software products and consulting services, could lead to the largest transaction in the history of the software industry, according to Computer Associates. It said a wholly-owned Computer Associates subsidiary would offer to purchase all outstanding Platinum shares for $29.25 a share.

"This transaction provides tremendous synergies in products, markets and services with very little overlap, creating exciting growth opportunities for CA in many new and emerging markets," said Computer Associates president Mr Sanjay Kumar.