SoftBank Group, a Japanese multinational investment holding company, has agreed to acquire DigitalBridge Group, a global alternative asset manager focused on digital infrastructure, including data centers, fiber networks, cell towers, and edge assets. The cash deal valued at about US$ 4 billion positions the Japanese technology investor to expand its control over infrastructure critical to artificial intelligence.
In a press release DigitalBridge revealed that the acquisition will add operating and investment capabilities needed to support the growing demand for computing power, connectivity, and energy as AI systems expand. The transaction values DigitalBridge at US$ 16.00 per share, a 15 percent premium to its closing price on Dec 26, 2025, and 50 percent above its unaffected 52-week average. SoftBank will acquire all outstanding shares, with the deal expected to conclude in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and other conditions.
Masayoshi Son, SoftBank Group Corp Chairman and CEO said, “As AI transforms industries worldwide, we need more compute, connectivity, power, and scalable infrastructure, this acquisition will strengthen the foundation for next-generation AI data centers.”
Marc Ganzi, DigitalBridge, Chief Executive Officer, said, “The buildout of AI infrastructure represents one of the most significant investment opportunities of our generation, and long-term investors committed to scaling transformational digital infrastructure.”
SoftBank has increasingly focused on infrastructure that supports AI model training and deployment, alongside its investments in AI companies. DigitalBridge’s global footprint and sector specialization are expected to complement that strategy by helping secure long-term capacity and financing for large-scale projects.
The transaction was unanimously approved by DigitalBridge’s board of directors after review by an independent special committee. Following the closing, DigitalBridge will continue to operate as a separate platform under Marc Ganzi’s leadership.
