SoftBank Acquires Ampere Computing for $6.5 Billion in All-Cash Deal
March 19, 2025 – Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group has announced the acquisition of semiconductor design firm Ampere Computing in a $6.5 billion all-cash transaction.
March 19, 2025 – Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group has announced the acquisition of semiconductor design firm Ampere Computing in a $6.5 billion all-cash transaction.
According to the agreement, Ampere’s key investors, including The Carlyle Group and Oracle Corporation, will divest their respective stakes in the company. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions and is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2025. After completion, Ampere will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of SoftBank Group while retaining its brand identity.
Ampere Computing: A Leading ARM-Based Cloud Chipmaker
Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Silicon Valley, Ampere Computing specializes in designing high-performance, power-efficient processors for cloud data centers. The company's ARM-based chip architecture has gained traction among major cloud service providers, offering solutions optimized for cloud-native workloads, edge computing, and hyperscale data centers.
Ampere's processors are widely adopted by tech giants such as Oracle, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). The company has positioned itself as a strong competitor to x86-based solutions from Intel and AMD by delivering efficient, scalable, and high-performance ARM-based alternatives.
SoftBank’s Strategic Bet on AI and Data Center Computing
This acquisition aligns with SoftBank’s broader AI and semiconductor ambitions, especially as the demand for AI-driven cloud computing infrastructure continues to surge.
SoftBank Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son emphasized the strategic significance of the deal, stating:
"The future of artificial intelligence requires groundbreaking computing power. Ampere’s expertise in semiconductors and high-performance computing will accelerate this vision while deepening our commitment to U.S.-led AI innovation."
Implications of the Acquisition
Expanding SoftBank’s AI and cloud computing portfolio, building on its investments in Arm Holdings.
Strengthening SoftBank’s foothold in the semiconductor industry, positioning it as a key player in AI-optimized cloud hardware.
Challenging x86 dominance in the data center sector, as ARM-based solutions gain wider adoption in cloud-native and AI workloads.
With Ampere Computing now under its umbrella, SoftBank is making a bold move to redefine AI-driven computing and reinforce its presence in next-generation semiconductor technologies.
