DigitalBridge Group Inc. (NYSE:DBRG) experienced a significant surge in its stock price, climbing by 9.7% to close at $15.27 on December 26, 2023. This rise follows the announcement that SoftBank Group Corp. will acquire the company for $4 billion. The deal, which represents a 15% premium over DigitalBridge’s previous closing stock price of $13.92, has attracted substantial interest from investors.
In a statement issued on the same day, DigitalBridge confirmed it has entered into a definitive agreement with SoftBank for the acquisition of all outstanding shares at $16 per share. Following the transaction, DigitalBridge is expected to operate as a distinct entity, maintaining its leadership under current CEO Marc Ganzi. The merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory and shareholder approvals, and is projected to finalize in the second half of 2026.
SoftBank’s Strategic Expansion into AI
This acquisition is part of SoftBank’s broader strategy to expand into the artificial intelligence sector. Earlier in 2023, the company announced collaborations with OpenAI and MGX, launching the ambitious $500 billion “Stargate” project aimed at developing extensive data center infrastructure across the United States.
SoftBank Group’s Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son emphasized the necessity for enhanced computing resources as AI continues to revolutionize various industries. “As AI transforms industries worldwide, we need more compute, connectivity, power, and scalable infrastructure,” Son stated. He added, “DigitalBridge is a leader in digital infrastructure, and this acquisition will strengthen the foundation for next-generation AI data centers, advance our vision to become a leading ASI platform provider, and help unlock breakthroughs that move humanity forward.”
The deal has sparked discussions about the future of DigitalBridge and its potential role in supporting AI advancements. While investors recognize the risks and opportunities associated with DBRG, many believe certain AI stocks might present greater potential for higher returns in a shorter timeframe.
As the acquisition process unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this strategic move will shape the landscape of digital infrastructure and AI development in the coming years.
