SoftBank to Acquire ABB's Robotics Division in $5.375 Billion Deal

SoftBank Group Corp. has announced a definitive agreement to acquire ABB Ltd's Robotics Division for $5.375 billion, marking a significant expansion into the robotics and artificial intelligence sectors. The deal, unveiled on October 8, 2025, is expected to close in mid-to-late 2026, pending regulatory approvals in the European Union, China, and the United States.

This acquisition aligns with SoftBank's strategic initiative to advance in "Physical AI," integrating artificial intelligence with robotics to enhance real-world applications. Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank, stated, "SoftBank’s next frontier is Physical AI. Together with ABB Robotics, we will unite world-class technology and talent under our shared vision to fuse Artificial Super Intelligence and robotics — driving a groundbreaking evolution that will propel humanity forward."

ABB's Robotics Division, headquartered in Zürich, Switzerland, employs approximately 7,000 people and reported revenues of $2.3 billion in 2024, accounting for about 7% of ABB's total sales. The division specializes in industrial automation, providing robotic solutions for sectors such as automotive and electronics manufacturing.

For ABB, the divestment represents a strategic shift to focus on its core businesses in electrification and automation. Morten Wierod, CEO of ABB, commented, "SoftBank will be an excellent new home for the business and its employees. ABB and SoftBank share the same perspective that the world is entering a new era of AI-based robotics and believe that the division and SoftBank’s robotics offering can best shape this era together."

The transaction is structured as a carve-out, with ABB establishing a new holding company for its Robotics Division, which SoftBank will acquire in its entirety. ABB anticipates a non-operational pre-tax book gain of approximately $2.4 billion from the sale and expects net cash proceeds of around $5.3 billion, after accounting for transaction costs. Separation expenses are estimated at about $200 million.

This move is part of SoftBank's broader strategy to invest in key areas such as AI chips, AI robots, AI data centers, and energy. The company has previously invested in robotics firms including AutoStore Holdings Ltd., Agile Robots SE, and Skild AI, Inc.

The acquisition is expected to have significant implications for the robotics industry, potentially intensifying competition among major players like Fanuc, Yaskawa, and Kuka. The integration of ABB's Robotics Division into SoftBank's operations may also lead to organizational changes affecting the division's 7,000 employees.

As the deal progresses toward completion, industry observers will be closely monitoring how this union influences the future of automation and AI-driven solutions.