Bain Capital has led a $1.5 billion investment in Eaton Fiber, a fiber infrastructure platform. This significant capital infusion is earmarked to accelerate the expansion of Verizon fiber broadband services across the United States.

In conjunction with this investment, Eaton Fiber has entered into an agreement to acquire Ripple Fiber, a fiber-optic internet provider based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Ripple Fiber's current shareholders, Platform Investment Partners and KLT, will continue their support for the Eaton Fiber platform, alongside Tillman and Bain Capital. This move follows a commercial agreement established in October 2025 between Verizon and Eaton Fiber, defining Eaton Fiber's role in network development and maintenance, with Verizon acting as the retail service provider.

Angelo Rufino of Bain Capital highlighted the U.S. fiber market's current state, noting constrained supply due to capital market conditions despite growing broadband demand, and positioning wholesale fiber platforms as a capital-efficient solution. As part of the transaction, Verizon will acquire Ripple Fiber's existing customers, who will gradually transition to Verizon's platform post-closing. The deal is anticipated to conclude before the end of 2026.