SoftBank Group Acquires AI Chip Powerhouse Ampere for $6.5 Billion

A Strategic Leap into the Future of AI

In a bold move to bolster its artificial intelligence capabilities, SoftBank Group Corp. is set to acquire Ampere Computing, a leading independent silicon design company, for a staggering $6.5 billion. This all-cash transaction will see Ampere operate as a wholly owned subsidiary, retaining its name and Santa Clara headquarters.

This acquisition marks a significant step in SoftBank's broader strategy of investing in AI infrastructure, complementing existing ventures like Cristal intelligence and Stargate. By bringing Ampere's expertise in-house, SoftBank aims to accelerate its growth initiatives and solidify its position in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

The Power Behind Artificial Super Intelligence

Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group Corp., highlighted the strategic rationale behind the acquisition: “The future of Artificial Super Intelligence requires breakthrough computing power. Ampere’s expertise in semiconductors and high-performance computing will help accelerate this vision, and deepens our commitment to AI innovation in the United States.”

This quote underscores SoftBank's belief in the transformative potential of ASI and the crucial role of advanced computing power in realizing that potential. Ampere's cutting-edge technology provides the necessary foundation for building the next generation of AI-powered applications.

A Shared Vision for AI Advancement

Renee James, Founder and CEO of Ampere, expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with SoftBank: “With a shared vision for advancing AI, we are excited to join SoftBank Group and partner with its portfolio of leading technology companies. This is a fantastic outcome for our team, and we are excited to drive forward our AmpereOne® roadmap for high performance Arm processors and AI.”

This partnership promises to be mutually beneficial, allowing Ampere to leverage SoftBank's resources and network while contributing its expertise in high-performance Arm processors and AI-specific hardware.

From Cloud Computing to Sustainable AI

Founded in Silicon Valley in 2018, Ampere initially focused on cloud-native computing. Since then, they have expanded into sustainable AI compute, developing a range of products that cater to various cloud workloads, from the edge to the cloud data center. This focus on sustainability aligns with the growing demand for energy-efficient computing solutions in the face of increasing computational demands.

Transaction Details and Future Outlook

The deal, valued at $6.5 billion in cash, involves Ampere's lead investors, Carlyle and Oracle Corp., selling their respective positions. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals. With this strategic acquisition, SoftBank is poised to significantly strengthen its position in the AI arena and drive further innovation in this transformative technology.