SoftBank Explores Acquisition of Data Center Giant Switch in AI Infrastructure Push

SoftBank Explores Acquisition of Data Center Giant Switch in AI Infrastructure Push December 12, 2025 In a strategic move to capitalize on the soaring demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure, Japan's SoftBank Group Corp. is evaluating a potential acquisition of prominent data center operator Switch Inc., according to people familiar with the matter. This exploration signals a deepening commitment by billionaire founder Masayoshi Son to position his conglomerate at the center of the AI-driven digital economy, where vast computational power and specialized facilities are becoming critical assets. The people, who asked not to be identified discussing private information, said SoftBank has engaged in discussions with Switch's leadership and is conducting due diligence on the privately held company. The potential deal underscores the intense competition and high valuations within the data center sector, as cloud providers and investors scramble to secure capacity for next-generation AI workloads. In a related development that could streamline a takeover, Bloomberg News reported last week that SoftBank has also been in advanced talks to acquire DigitalBridge Group Inc., a New York-listed investment firm that is one of Switch's primary private equity backers. A successful acquisition of Switch, a major player in the U.S. data center market with a significant footprint in key locations like Nevada and Michigan, would represent a massive bet on the future of AI infrastructure. It would provide SoftBank with direct control over a large-scale platform of mission-critical facilities, thereby securing essential real estate for its expansive portfolio of technology and AI investments. Industry analysts view such a move as a logical, albeit ambitious, step for SoftBank as it seeks to build a vertically integrated ecosystem around AI, from chip design through to the physical data halls that house the servers. Source: Bloomberg