SoftBank Group to Acquire Ampere Computing in $6.5 Billion Deal
SoftBank Group has announced its acquisition of semiconductor designer Ampere Computing, marking a significant move in the Japanese investment firm’s expansion into artificial intelligence infrastructure.
The acquisition, valued at $6.5 billion in an all-cash transaction, solidifies SoftBank’s commitment to AI technology. Ampere, based in Santa Clara, California, will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of SoftBank, maintaining its name and headquarters.
Ampere, known for its processors used in data center machinery, including technology utilized by Arm Holdings, offers high-performance Arm processors and AI solutions. The company was founded by former Intel Corp. executive Renee James and was previously valued at over $8 billion in a proposed minority investment by SoftBank.
With the acquisition, SoftBank gains access to Ampere’s expertise in designing advanced chips for data centers, positioning itself to capitalize on the growing demand for AI infrastructure. The deal also allows SoftBank to enhance its product offerings and increase its market share in the AI sector.
As part of the agreement, Oracle and Carlyle Group will sell their stakes in Ampere. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
According to Ampere CEO Renee James, joining forces with SoftBank presents new opportunities for the company to advance its technology roadmap and drive innovation in AI.
As the competition in the chips market intensifies, SoftBank’s acquisition of Ampere positions the company as a key player in the development of advanced chip technologies for data centers. The partnership with Ampere strengthens SoftBank’s position in the AI market and enhances its capabilities in delivering cutting-edge solutions.
SoftBank Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, highlighting Ampere’s expertise in semiconductors and high-performance computing as crucial for advancing AI innovation in the US.
Related Articles:
- Nvidia Sees $5.5B Hit From New Trump China Curbs on Chips
- Google Launches Ironwood TPU For Next-Gen AI Inference
