SoftBank Group Corp. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the robotics division of Swiss engineering giant ABB Ltd. for $5.4 billion, a move that strengthens its position in the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence (AI) and industrial automation. Announced on October 8, 2025, the transaction—valued at an enterprise value of $5.375 billion—marks SoftBank’s boldest bet yet on “physical AI,” aligning with founder Masayoshi Son’s vision of fusing artificial superintelligence (ASI) with robotics to “propel humanity forward.” For AI investors, robotics experts, and tech strategists searching SoftBank ABB robotics acquisition, SoftBank physical AI deal 2025, or ABB robotics sale $5.4 billion, ABB’s unit—employing 7,000 people and generating $2.3 billion in 2024 revenue (7% of ABB’s total)—will be carved out into a new holding company, with SoftBank acquiring all shares pending approvals in the EU, US, and China. The deal, expected to close in mid-to-late 2026, will generate $5.3 billion in cash for ABB, which plans to reinvest in electrification and automation while abandoning its earlier spin-off intentions.
SoftBank’s acquisition aligns with Son’s aggressive AI strategy, following investments in OpenAI, Arm Holdings, and robotics firms like Berkshire Grey and AutoStore.
Deal Overview: $5.4 Billion Enterprise Value Acquisition
The transaction involves SoftBank purchasing all shares of a newly formed holding company that will house ABB’s robotics operations, a leader in industrial automation with products used in automotive and electronics manufacturing.
- Purchase Price: $5.375 billion enterprise value (approximately ¥818.7 billion).
- Structure: ABB carves out the division; SoftBank acquires 100% of the holding company’s shares.
- Revenue and EBITDA: $2.3 billion sales and $313 million EBITDA in 2024 (down 7% and 19% YoY).
- Workforce: 7,000 employees globally.
- Timeline: Expected closure mid-to-late 2026, subject to regulatory approvals in the EU, US, and China.
ABB CEO Morten Wierod: “SoftBank will be an excellent new home for the business… We share the perspective that the world is entering a new era of AI-based robotics.” The proceeds will fund organic growth, acquisitions, and shareholder returns.
| Financial Metric | 2024 Value | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| Sales | $2.3B | -7% |
| EBITDA | $313M | -19% |
| Enterprise Value | $5.375B | N/A |
SoftBank’s Robotics Ambitions: Physical AI and ASI Vision
SoftBank’s founder Masayoshi Son has long championed robotics, viewing it as the next frontier for artificial superintelligence (ASI)—AI 10,000 times smarter than humans. The ABB acquisition unites SoftBank’s existing portfolio with ABB’s industrial expertise.
- SoftBank Robotics Holdings: Includes SoftBank Robotics Group (Pepper humanoid), Berkshire Grey (warehouse automation), and AutoStore (storage systems).
- AI Synergies: ABB’s robots will integrate with SoftBank’s AI capabilities for advanced manufacturing and logistics.
- Strategic Fit: Enhances SoftBank’s $10 billion+ AI investments, including stakes in OpenAI and Arm.
Son: “Together with ABB Robotics, we will fuse ASI and robotics—driving a groundbreaking evolution.”
ABB’s Strategic Pivot: Refocus on Core Businesses
For ABB, the sale allows a sharper focus on electrification and automation, its primary growth drivers.
- Post-Deal Proceeds: $5.3 billion cash for reinvestment and shareholder returns.
- Robotics Challenges: Recent sales declines and profitability pressures prompted the divestment.
- Leadership Shift: First major move under CEO Morten Wierod (appointed August 2024).
Wierod: “The combination of ABB Robotics’ technology and SoftBank’s AI will shape the new era of robotics.”
Market Reaction and Competitive Landscape
ABB shares rose 2.5% to CHF 48.50 on October 8, 2025, while SoftBank’s (9984.T) gained 1.2% to ¥8,120. The deal intensifies competition in industrial robotics, where ABB competes with Fanuc, Yaskawa, and Kuka.
- Global Market: $50 billion in 2024, growing 12% CAGR to $78 billion by 2028.
- AI Integration: SoftBank’s entry accelerates humanoid and collaborative robot development.
Conclusion: SoftBank’s $5.4B Robotics Power Play
SoftBank’s acquisition of ABB’s robotics division for $5.4 billion is a strategic fusion of AI and automation, aligning with Son’s ASI vision. As closure nears in 2026, it repositions ABB for growth. For the robotics sector, it’s a bold step—will physical AI redefine manufacturing? The arms assemble. CNBC
