Oracle-Backed Chip Designer Ampere Is Said to Explore Sale (1)

Ampere Computing LLC, the semiconductor startup backed by Larry Ellison’s Oracle Corp., is exploring a potential sale, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The chip designer has been working with a financial adviser in recent months to help field takeover interest, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private information. Santa Clara, California-based Ampere is open to talks with a larger industry player about a possible transaction, the people said.

The move suggests that Ampere doesn’t see an easy path to an initial public offering. Though the company stands to benefit from ...