SoftBank Acquires DigitalBridge for AI

SoftBank Group is set to acquire DigitalBridge, a digital infrastructure investor, for approximately $4 billion. This strategic move, driven by SoftBank Group's Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son, aims to deepen the Japanese conglomerate's exposure to artificial intelligence infrastructure, including data centers, cell towers, and fiber networks. The deal, valued at $16 per share, represents a 15% premium over DigitalBridge's closing price and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. DigitalBridge, led by CEO Marc Ganzi, will continue to operate as a separately managed platform. This acquisition aligns with SoftBank Group's broader strategy to control key infrastructure for AI, following previous investments and divestments, such as selling Nvidia stock to invest in OpenAI. DigitalBridge is also involved in the Stargate project, a large-scale computing and infrastructure initiative, alongside OpenAI, Oracle Corporation, and MGX.