Jamie Spencer
Deal Expands AI and Semiconductor Investments
SoftBank Group announced on Wednesday that it will acquire Ampere Computing, a semiconductor startup specializing in Arm-based server chips, for $6.5 billion. The Japanese conglomerate expects to close the deal in the second half of 2025.
The acquisition aligns with SoftBank’s growing focus on AI infrastructure, following its recent partnership with OpenAI and involvement in U.S. President Donald Trump’s $500 billion private AI investment project, Stargate.
Ampere to Operate Independently Under SoftBank
As part of the deal, Carlyle Group and Oracle have agreed to sell their respective stakes in Ampere. The startup will continue to operate as an independent subsidiary while maintaining its headquarters in Santa Clara, California.
SoftBank Group Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son emphasized that Ampere’s expertise in semiconductors and high-performance computing will advance the company’s AI vision.
“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.” – Masayoshi Son
Ampere’s Role in the Expanding Arm-Based Market
Founded in 2017 by former Intel President Renee James, Ampere Computing develops energy-efficient server processors based on Arm architecture, an alternative to x86 chips from Intel and AMD. These chips are widely used in cloud computing and AI applications.
Several major cloud providers have already adopted Arm-based processors:
- Amazon Web Services (AWS): Offers Graviton Arm chips, popular among enterprise customers.
- Microsoft: Launched its own Arm-based cloud computing instances (Cobalt 100) in October 2024.
With a team of 1,000 semiconductor engineers, Ampere will continue developing its AmpereOne® roadmap for high-performance AI and cloud computing processors.
“With a shared vision for advancing AI, we are excited to join SoftBank Group and partner with its portfolio of leading technology companies.” – Renee James, Founder & CEO of Ampere
SoftBank’s AI and Semiconductor Strategy
SoftBank’s acquisition of Ampere follows its 2016 purchase of British chip designer Arm for $32 billion. Arm went public in 2023, further solidifying SoftBank’s presence in the semiconductor market.
Arm-based processors are known for their lower power consumption, making them a compelling choice for cloud computing and AI-driven applications.
Market Reaction
Despite the long-term strategic implications of the deal, shares of SoftBank fell about 2% on Thursday, reflecting cautious investor sentiment.
