SoftBank Group Corp. (TSE: 9984, “SoftBank Group”) is all set to acquire Silicon Valley-based Ampere Computing, an independent silicon design company. Valued at $6.5 billion, this will be an all-cash transaction.
Founded in 2018, Ampere will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of SoftBank Group and retain its name, the agreement states. As a part of the transaction, Ampere’s lead investors, Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) and Oracle Corp. (NYSE: ORCL), are selling their respective positions in Ampere.
The acquisition will help SoftBank enhance its Group’s capabilities in key areas and accelerate its growth initiatives.
“The future of Artificial Super Intelligence requires breakthrough computing power,” said Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group Corp. “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.”
“With a shared vision for advancing AI, we are excited to join SoftBank Group and partner with its portfolio of leading technology companies,” said Renee James, Founder and CEO of Ampere. “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.”
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected to close in the second half of 2025. Ampere’s headquarters will remain in Santa Clara, CA.
