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SoftBank is in advanced discussions to acquire DigitalBridge, a major digital infrastructure company, to expand its AI-linked asset portfolio. The deal, possibly closing by year-end, led DigitalBridge shares to surge 35%. Investors are increasingly channeling funds into digital infrastructure, with McKinsey projecting AI-related spending could reach USD 6.7 trillion by 2030. DigitalBridge, managing USD 108 billion in assets, operates data centers, cell towers, fiber networks, and edge infrastructure. Growing M&A activity highlights the strategic importance of digital infrastructure amid AI and cloud expansion.
SoftBank is reportedly in discussions to acquire DigitalBridge, a leading digital infrastructure company, as the Japanese conglomerate aims to strengthen its presence in AI-focused assets. Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the deal could be finalized by the end of this year. Both SoftBank and DigitalBridge declined to comment on the potential transaction. Advertisement
Following the news, DigitalBridge's shares jumped nearly 35%, reaching their highest level in over a month, despite having fallen almost 14% year-to-date. The Boca Raton, Florida-based firm currently has a market valuation of USD 1.8 billion. Bloomberg News had reported the talks earlier.
Investor interest in digital infrastructure has surged this year, with significant capital flowing into data centers and related assets, reflecting the growing importance of AI-driven technology. According to McKinsey, global spending on AI-linked infrastructure could reach USD 6.7 trillion by 2030.
Earlier this year, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted major tech executives to launch Stargate, a private-sector initiative aiming to invest up to USD 500 billion in AI infrastructure. SoftBank is among the participants in this initiative, which also includes companies like OpenAI and Oracle.
DigitalBridge, led by CEO Marc Ganzi, ranks among the largest dedicated digital infrastructure firms globally, managing assets worth USD 108 billion. Its investments span data centers, cell towers, fiber networks, small cells, and edge infrastructure. The company's portfolio includes well-known firms such as Vantage Data Centers, Zayo, Switch, and AtlasEdge.
Mergers and acquisitions in the digital infrastructure space have increased in recent years as investment firms look to capitalize on the rapid growth in AI, cloud computing, and data localization. Last year, BlackRock acquired alternative asset manager Global Infrastructure Partners, which has subsequently expanded its holdings by adding several data center firms, enhancing its AI-focused infrastructure portfolio.
Source Reuters
5th Jun, 2025
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