New Wave of Mergers & Acquisitions in the Semiconductor Industry

The semiconductor market has been experiencing a resurgence in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), driven by policy support, soaring AI demand, and increasing investments in advanced chip technologies. Entering 2025, the M&A momentum remains strong. Following onsemi's acquisition of Qorvo's SiC JFET technology and Lenovo's purchase of Israeli enterprise storage firm Infinidat, the industry is now witnessing four more high-profile semiconductor M&A transactions.

SoftBank in Talks to Acquire Ampere Computing

SoftBank continues to expand its semiconductor portfolio, following its landmark acquisition of Arm Holdings. According to recent reports, SoftBank is now in advanced talks to acquire IC design firm Ampere Computing LLC, a move that could strengthen its position in the AI and cloud computing processor market.

As reported by Bloomberg, the deal, which is currently in its final negotiation stages, is estimated to value Ampere Computing at $6.5 billion. However, sources indicate that while discussions are progressing, the acquisition could still face delays or even fail.

Ampere Computing, founded in 2017 by former Intel President Renee James, specializes in ARM-based processors tailored for cloud computing and AI applications. Its key products include Ampere Altra and AmpereOne, which have gained traction among major clients like Google and Oracle.

Industry analysts suggest that this acquisition would enhance SoftBank’s footprint in the data center processor space and further its ambitions in the AI sector. Given SoftBank's existing control over Arm Holdings, the deal could create synergies that drive next-generation AI and cloud computing infrastructure.

Teradyne Acquires Infineon’s ATE Technology and Development Team

Teradyne and Infineon Technologies have announced a strategic partnership to enhance power semiconductor testing capabilities. As part of the collaboration, Teradyne will acquire Infineon's automatic test equipment (ATE) technology and its development team based in Regensburg, Germany, comprising approximately 80 engineers specializing in power semiconductor testing.

With EVs and renewable energy adoption accelerating, demand for high-performance power semiconductors is rising. New technologies such as GaN (gallium nitride) and SiC (silicon carbide) are reshaping power semiconductor standards and testing methodologies. Teradyne, a leading provider of automated test solutions, aims to strengthen its expertise in power semiconductor testing and accelerate advancements in next-gen wide-bandgap device testing.

Infineon, on the other hand, will continue to access Teradyne’s testing services through a long-term agreement, ensuring manufacturing flexibility while optimizing internal resource allocation.

Yageo Acquires Japan’s Shibaura Electronics for $4.4 Billion

On February 5, Yageo, a leading passive components manufacturer, announced a ¥655.59 billion JPY ($4.4 billion USD) takeover of Shibaura Electronics. Yageo has launched a tender offer of ¥4,300 per share to acquire 100% ownership of Shibaura Electronics, marking a 36.94% premium over its last closing price.

Shibaura Electronics is a major thermistor supplier, specializing in miniature semiconductor temperature sensors for automotive, industrial, home appliances, and medical applications.

Industry experts note that this acquisition will bolster Yageo's expansion into the sensor market, enhancing its global market competitiveness, particularly in North America and Europe. Shibaura Electronics, in turn, will leverage Yageo’s resources to scale its global reach and R&D capabilities.

Yanmade Electronics Completes 67% Acquisition of AxisTec

Yanmade Electronics PTE. LTD., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yanmade Technology, has completed its acquisition of a 67% stake in AxisTec on February 5, 2025. The deal was initially launched on November 28, 2024, and the final 5% payment has now been settled.

AxisTec specializes in silicon photonics wafer inspection equipment, optoelectronic coupling devices, and final assembly testing. The acquisition allows Yanmade to integrate cutting-edge semiconductor inspection technology, reduce uncertainties, and accelerate its expansion into advanced semiconductor markets.

This strategic move is expected to shorten Yanmade’s entry cycle into high-tech semiconductor domains, while also unlocking new revenue growth opportunities.

Conclusion

The semiconductor industry is entering a new era of consolidation, as leading companies strengthen their positions through strategic acquisitions. The recent M&A deals highlight the industry's focus on AI, cloud computing, power semiconductors, and advanced testing solutions.

With SoftBank, Teradyne, Yageo, and Yanmade making bold moves, it is evident that the semiconductor industry is gearing up for a wave of technological and market expansion in 2025 and beyond.