SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son considers buying data center operator Switch

SoftBank Group (SFTBY) (SFTBF), led by Masayoshi Son, is exploring the acquisition of U.S. data center operator Switch that aligns with his aggressive push into AI, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

Switch specializes in energy-efficient data centers essential for AI workloads. Acquiring Switch would provide SoftBank (SFTBY) outright ownership of a major portfolio at a time when demand for computing power is growing.

Switch's owners are aiming for a valuation of about $50 billion, including debt, the report added. The potential deal signals SoftBank's (SFTBY) shift toward owning the full AI stack.

The parties have not reached an agreement on the terms of a deal, and there’s no certainty the discussions will lead to a transaction, the people said.