SoftBank Acquires DigitalBridge for $4 Billion to Boost AI Infrastructure | Quick Digest

SoftBank Acquires DigitalBridge for $4 Billion to Boost AI Infrastructure | Quick Digest
SoftBank Group has agreed to acquire DigitalBridge, a global digital infrastructure firm, for approximately $4 billion. This strategic move aims to significantly bolster SoftBank's capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, including data centers and fiber networks. The deal underscores SoftBank's commitment to advancing its AI initiatives globally.

SoftBank to acquire DigitalBridge for $4 billion enterprise value.

Acquisition aims to strengthen SoftBank's AI infrastructure capabilities.

DigitalBridge manages global digital assets like data centers and fiber networks.

Deal highlights SoftBank's strategic shift towards AI and its foundational infrastructure.

Transaction was announced on December 29, 2025, and is expected to close in H2 2026.

SoftBank Group has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire DigitalBridge Group, a prominent global alternative asset manager specializing in digital infrastructure, for approximately $4 billion. This all-cash transaction values DigitalBridge at $16.00 per share, representing a 15% premium to its closing price on December 26, 2025. The acquisition is a strategic move by SoftBank to significantly bolster its push into Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure. DigitalBridge's extensive portfolio, which includes data centers, fiber networks, cell towers, and edge computing systems, is considered crucial for supporting the escalating demands of advanced AI models and large-scale deployments globally. Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group, emphasized that the deal is vital for securing the necessary compute, connectivity, and scalable infrastructure as AI continues to transform industries worldwide. This aligns with SoftBank's broader mission to realize Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI). The transaction has been unanimously approved by DigitalBridge's Board of Directors, following a recommendation from a special committee of independent directors. DigitalBridge will continue to operate as a separately managed platform under the leadership of its current CEO, Marc Ganzi, following the completion of the acquisition. The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is anticipated to conclude in the second half of 2026. This high-value acquisition underscores the increasing global investment in foundational digital infrastructure as the AI revolution accelerates, with companies vying for control over the physical backbone that powers next-generation AI systems. The original Reuters headline of a '$4 billion deal' is accurate, referring to the total enterprise value, clarifying previous reports that mentioned a $3 billion equity value.
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