SoftBank to buy ABB robotics unit for $5.4 billion as it boosts its AI play
SoftBank’s $5.4 billion acquisition of ABB Robotics aims to advance Physical AI by combining robotics with artificial intelligence, expanding its real-world AI applications.
- On Monday, SoftBank Group agreed to buy ABB Ltd's robotics division for $5.4 billion, replacing ABB's prior plan to spin off the business.
- SoftBank's recent investments show it has aggressively backed AI and AI-linked sectors over two years, with Masayoshi Son, chairman and chief executive officer of SoftBank Group, promoting Artificial Super Intelligence .
- ABB's robotics arm employs about 7,000 people and generated $2.3 billion in sales last year, and ABB said the transaction will generate cash proceeds of roughly $5.3 billion expected to close mid-to-late 2026.
- The transaction is subject to regulatory approval globally, and Masayoshi Son described the purchase as central to advancing `Physical AI` by uniting robotics with his ASI vision.
- ABB said proceeds will fund long-term capital allocation, including acquisitions, organic growth and potential shareholder returns, while Masayoshi Son highlighted the AI vision at the June 27, 2025 meeting.
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ABB To Divest Robotics Division To SoftBank Group - Manufacturing AUTOMATION
Oct. 9, 2025, Zurich, Switzerland — ABB has announced it has signed an agreement to divest its Robotics division to SoftBank Group Corp. for an enterprise value of $5.375 billion and not pursue its earlier intention to spin-off the business as a separately listed company. “SoftBank’s offer has been carefully evaluated by the Board and Executive Committee and compared with our original intention for a spin-off. It reflects the long-term strengths…
Mixed closing in Europe ● Tokyo stock market at all-time high ● Delta Air Lines beat expectations in the third quarter, raises forecast ● Ferrari lowered expectations regarding electric vehicle production ● Investment giant SoftBank jumped by about 11%, following a huge acquisition it made in the amount of $ 5.4 billion ● Slight declines in oil prices
SoftBank to Buy ABB's Robot Business for $5.4 Billion in ...
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