SoftBank Acquires ABB's Robotics Unit for $5.4 Billion

SoftBank Acquires ABB's Robotics Unit

Japanese holding giant SoftBank Group (SFTBY) announced that it will acquire the robotics division of Switzerland-based engineering firm ABB (ABBNY) for $5.4 billion. This deal requires the approval of global regulatory bodies and aims to establish ABB's robotics unit as an independent company, paving the way for future growth.

SoftBank's Strategic Goals

SoftBank’s founder, Masayoshi Son, explained the motivation behind this acquisition: “SoftBank’s next goal is Physical Artificial Intelligence. Together with ABB Robotics, we will combine Artificial Super Intelligence and robotic technology under our shared vision, bringing together technology and talent worldwide to initiate a groundbreaking evolution that will advance humanity.”

Past Successes in Robotics

SoftBank is not a new player in the robotics field. In 2012, it acquired a majority stake in the French technology company Aldebaran and two years later launched the humanoid robot Pepper. However, this initiative did not achieve the expected success. Nonetheless, robotics currently occupies a central place in the Japanese giant's business strategy.

Investment and Development Potential

Masayoshi Son aims to increase existing investments to position SoftBank at the center of the artificial intelligence boom. The company is the owner of semiconductor designer Arm and holds a significant stake in OpenAI. Additionally, it has investments in other robotics technology companies, including AutoStore Holdings and Agile Robots.

SoftBank's acquisition of robotics technology from ABB is of great significance for strengthening the company's position in this rapidly evolving sector. How the market will shape and how investors will react remains a matter of curiosity.