Why SoftBank has Moved to Expand AI Data Centre Footprint

SoftBank Group has announced plans to acquire DigitalBridge in a US$4bn transaction designed to accelerate the buildout of data centre and connectivity infrastructure needed to support AI at scale.

The agreement will see SoftBank Group acquire the global alternative asset manager, which specialises in digital infrastructure including data centres, fibre networks, cell towers and edge facilities. 

SoftBank's deal is positioned as a strategic move to strengthen SoftBank Group’s platform infrastructure as demand for compute, power and connectivity continues to surge.

The acquisition reflects the growing importance of data centres as foundational assets for next-generation AI services. 

Training and deploying advanced AI models requires large-scale facilities capable of supporting high-density compute, reliable power and low-latency connectivity across global markets.

Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group Corp, says: “As AI transforms industries worldwide, we need more compute, connectivity, power and scalable infrastructure.

“DigitalBridge is a leader in digital infrastructure and this acquisition will strengthen the foundation for next-generation AI data centres, advance our vision to become a leading ASI platform provider and help unlock breakthroughs that move humanity forward.”

Data centres at the core of AI growth

DigitalBridge manages a diversified portfolio of digital infrastructure assets with a strong focus on data centres and connectivity platforms. 

Its global footprint and operational expertise are expected to enhance SoftBank Group’s ability to secure critical capacity for AI workloads while supporting long-term growth in compute-intensive services.

By bringing DigitalBridge into its portfolio, SoftBank Group aims to address key constraints facing AI infrastructure development, including access to land, power availability and high-speed connectivity. Data centres are increasingly viewed as strategic assets as organisations race to deploy AI at scale across industries such as cloud computing, financial services and advanced manufacturing.

The acquisition also aligns with SoftBank Group’s broader ambition to support Artificial Super Intelligence by ensuring the underlying infrastructure can scale alongside increasingly complex models and applications.

Scaling global digital infrastructure

DigitalBridge is known for its long-term investment approach across the digital infrastructure lifecycle, from development and financing through to operation and expansion. 

The company’s experience in originating and managing large-scale projects is expected to complement SoftBank Group’s capital resources and global reach.

Marc Ganzi, CEO of DigitalBridge says: “The buildout of AI infrastructure represents one of the most significant investment opportunities of our generation.

“SoftBank shares our DNA as builders and long-term investors committed to scaling transformational digital infrastructure. Their vision, capital strength and global network will allow us to accelerate our mission with greater flexibility, invest with a longer-term horizon on behalf of our investors and better serve the world’s leading technology companies as they scale their AI ambitions.”

For data centre operators, the deal highlights the increasing convergence of capital, infrastructure and AI strategy. 

As hyperscalers and AI developers seek reliable capacity across multiple regions, access to well-capitalised infrastructure platforms is becoming a competitive advantage

Transaction structure and timeline

Under the terms of the agreement, SoftBank Group will indirectly acquire all outstanding common stock of DigitalBridge for US$16 per share in cash. 

The transaction has been unanimously recommended by a special committee of independent directors and approved by DigitalBridge’s Board of Directors.

Following completion, DigitalBridge will continue to operate as a separately managed platform under the leadership of Marc Ganzi. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second half of 2026.