SoftBank is in early-stage talks to acquire Allied Universal, the world’s largest private security firm and owner of G4S, in a deal potentially valuing the company at $30 billion including debt. The move would expand Masayoshi Son’s aggressive push into robotics and AI, complementing SoftBank’s existing investments in ABB Robotics and the planned US listing of physical AI firm Roze. Allied, backed by Warburg Pincus and La Caisse, operates in over 100 countries and employs 770,000 people.
It has long considered an IPO, with CEO Steve Jones publicly discussing the option. The potential acquisition could also strengthen SoftBank’s presence in data centre security, a key growth area. Warburg Pincus has recently exited major holdings, including a $11.75 billion sale to GE Aerospace.
SoftBank’s broader AI strategy is anchored in its ownership of UK chipmaker Arm and a $65 billion investment in OpenAI. However, OpenAI’s delayed IPO has raised questions about SoftBank’s continued AI bets, amid rising financing costs — including a record junk bond issuance with yields up to 9.75%. Son is also reportedly seeking to raise up to $100 billion from Gulf investors for a new AI-driven acquisition fund, with Allied seen as a likely target.
SoftBank shares are down 40% from their June peak but remain up 7% year-to-date, underperforming the Nikkei 225’s 26% gain.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing