SoftBank to Acquire Digital Bridge in $4 Billion Deal to Accelerate AI Infrastructure Strategy
SoftBank Group has agreed to acquire digital infrastructure investment firm Digital Bridge in a deal valued at approximately $4 billion, marking a significant move by the Japanese conglomerate to deepen its footprint in artificial intelligence driven infrastructure, the companies announced on Monday.
The acquisition underscores SoftBank’s growing focus on building the foundational infrastructure required to support the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and next-generation digital services. The deal is expected to significantly strengthen SoftBank’s exposure to data centres, fibre networks, wireless towers, and edge computing platforms critical components of the global digital economy.
Strategic Expansion Into Digital Infrastructure
Under the terms of the agreement, DigitalBridge will continue to operate as a separately managed platform, with Chief Executive Officer Marc Ganzi remaining at the helm. This structure is designed to preserve DigitalBridge’s operational independence while enabling closer strategic alignment with SoftBank’s long-term technology investment goals.
“Digital infrastructure is at the core of the AI revolution,” SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son said in a statement. “This acquisition positions us to support the massive data, connectivity, and computing demands that artificial intelligence will require in the coming years.”
SoftBank has increasingly shifted its investment strategy toward AI-focused assets after a volatile period for its Vision Funds, which faced significant losses amid a global tech market downturn. The company now sees AI infrastructure as a more stable, long-term growth opportunity.
DigitalBridge’s Role and Global Footprint
DigitalBridge is a global investment manager specialising in digital infrastructure assets such as data centres, cell towers, fibre networks, and small-cell installations. The company manages assets across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, serving telecom operators, hyperscalers, and enterprise clients.
By acquiring DigitalBridge, SoftBank gains immediate access to a diversified portfolio of digital infrastructure assets that underpin modern connectivity and cloud-based services. Analysts say this move strengthens SoftBank’s ability to capitalise on rising demand for AI computing power, driven by generative AI, cloud services, and data-intensive applications.
Strengthening AI Ambitions
SoftBank has made AI a central pillar of its corporate strategy, with Masayoshi Son frequently describing artificial intelligence as the “defining force” of the next technological era. The acquisition of DigitalBridge complements SoftBank’s existing investments in semiconductor design, robotics, and AI software by reinforcing the physical infrastructure required to support large-scale AI workloads.
Industry experts note that AI growth is driving unprecedented demand for data centres and high-speed connectivity, placing infrastructure investors in a strategically advantageous position.
Market Reaction and Industry Implications
The deal reflects a broader trend among global investors seeking exposure to digital infrastructure as demand for cloud services, 5G networks, and AI computing accelerates. Analysts view the transaction as a strategic bet on long-term structural growth rather than short-term market cycles.
While financial details beyond the headline valuation were not disclosed, the transaction is expected to be subject to regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions.
SoftBank said the acquisition aligns with its long-term vision of becoming a key enabler of the AI-driven economy. By combining Digital Bridge’s infrastructure expertise with its own capital resources and technology investments, the group aims to strengthen its position at the center of the global digital ecosystem.
The deal further signals SoftBank’s renewed confidence in large-scale strategic investments after a period of retrenchment, positioning the company for growth as artificial intelligence reshapes industries worldwide.