SoftBank Group (9984.T) is in advanced talks to acquire DigitalBridge Group (DBRG), sending shares up 45% amid AI-driven data center demand 1.
The potential deal positions SoftBank to capitalize on surging demand for digital infrastructure as artificial intelligence applications drive unprecedented data center investment needs.
Key Takeaways
- SoftBank could announce DigitalBridge deal as early as Monday
- DigitalBridge shares jumped 45% on acquisition reports
- Move targets AI-driven data center infrastructure boom
Market Reaction & Context
DigitalBridge shares surged approximately 45% in early trading following Bloomberg’s report of the potential acquisition 2. The private equity firm, which specializes in digital infrastructure investments including data centers, has benefited from increased investor appetite for AI-related assets.
SoftBank’s interest aligns with broader market trends, as data center REITs have outperformed the broader market in 2024 due to AI computing demands. Major cloud providers continue expanding capacity to support generative AI workloads.
Deal Structure & Timeline
The Japanese conglomerate could announce the acquisition as soon as Monday, according to Bloomberg sources familiar with the matter 3. DigitalBridge operates as an alternative asset manager focused on digital infrastructure investments across telecommunications, data centers, and fiber networks.
The talks represent SoftBank’s latest effort to position itself within the AI infrastructure ecosystem. The company has previously invested heavily in technology companies through its Vision Fund platforms.
Strategic Rationale
The potential acquisition comes as SoftBank seeks to capitalize on AI-driven demand for digital infrastructure, Bloomberg reported 4. Data centers have become critical components for AI model training and deployment, driving significant capital investment from technology companies.
DigitalBridge’s portfolio includes investments in cell towers, data centers, and fiber optic networks – assets that have gained strategic importance as AI applications require substantial computing power and connectivity infrastructure.
Industry Implications
The deal would expand SoftBank’s presence in the alternative asset management sector while providing exposure to essential digital infrastructure. Private equity firms specializing in digital assets have attracted increased investor interest as AI adoption accelerates across industries.
Neither SoftBank nor DigitalBridge immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the reported negotiations. The companies have not disclosed financial terms or other deal specifics.
Market Outlook
Analysts expect continued consolidation in the digital infrastructure investment space as demand for AI-supporting assets grows. The sector has attracted significant capital from institutional investors seeking exposure to long-term technology trends.
SoftBank’s potential acquisition of DigitalBridge would provide the Japanese company with established expertise in evaluating and managing digital infrastructure investments at a time when such assets command premium valuations.
Not investment advice. For informational purposes only.
References
1SoftBank Nears Deal for Data Center Investment Firm DigitalBridge. Bloomberg. Retrieved December 29, 2025.
2DigitalBridge surges after report of SoftBank nears deal to acquire the PE firm. Seeking Alpha. Retrieved December 29, 2025.
3SoftBank nears deal for data center investment firm DigitalBridge. Reuters. Retrieved December 29, 2025.
4SoftBank Group in Talks to Buy Data Center Investment Firm. MarketWatch. Retrieved December 29, 2025.