SoftBank eyes acquisition of Switch data center operator

SoftBank Group is considering acquiring data center operator Switch to capitalize on the AI-driven boom in digital infrastructure. Billionaire founder Masayoshi Son is intensifying the search for such deals. The company has held discussions with Switch's leadership.

SoftBank Group is examining potential acquisitions, including that of data center operator Switch, as its billionaire founder Masayoshi Son accelerates the pursuit of deals to leverage the artificial intelligence boom in digital infrastructure. Sources familiar with the discussions, who asked not to be identified due to the private nature of the information, said the Japanese firm has engaged with Switch's leadership and is conducting due diligence on the closely held company.

SoftBank has also entered advanced talks to acquire one of Switch's primary private equity backers, the New York-listed investment firm DigitalBridge Group, according to reports from last week.

This initiative underscores SoftBank's strategy to bolster its position in AI infrastructure amid growing demand for data centers. Switch operates significant facilities that could support expanded computing needs driven by AI applications, though no final agreements have been confirmed.

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