ABB has signed an agreement to divest its Robotics division to Japan’s SoftBank Group Corp. for an enterprise value of $5.375 billion. The move marks a major shift in ABB’s portfolio strategy and underlines SoftBank’s ambition to expand its role in the global robotics and artificial intelligence market. The transaction, which replaces ABB’s earlier plan to spin off the Robotics business as a separately listed company, is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Completion is expected in mid-to-late 2026.
ABB Chairman Peter Voser said the board carefully assessed SoftBank’s proposal against the spin-off alternative. “It reflects the long-term strengths of the division, and the divestment will create immediate value to ABB shareholders,” he noted. Proceeds from the sale will be used in line with ABB’s existing capital allocation principles, with no change to its long-term focus on electrification and automation.
Morten Wierod, CEO of ABB, emphasized that SoftBank provides a strategic home for the Robotics unit: “ABB and SoftBank share the perspective that the world is entering a new era of AI-based robotics. The combination of ABB Robotics’ technology and industry expertise with SoftBank’s capabilities in AI, robotics, and next-generation computing will strengthen the business as a global technology leader.”
SoftBank’s AI and Robotics Push
Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group Corp., described the acquisition as part of the company’s broader strategy around “Physical AI.” He said: “Together with ABB Robotics, we will unite world-class technology and talent under our shared vision to fuse Artificial Super Intelligence and robotics — driving a groundbreaking evolution that will propel humanity forward.”
SoftBank, already known for investments in AI, semiconductors, and robotics, sees the acquisition as an opportunity to reinforce its position in advanced automation and computing.
Business Impact for ABB
Following the agreement, ABB will adjust its reporting structure. From the fourth quarter of 2025, Robotics will be reported as discontinued operations. The Machine Automation division, which currently sits within the Robotics & Discrete Automation business area, will be integrated into ABB’s Process Automation division.
Upon closing, ABB expects a pre-tax book gain of approximately $2.4 billion, with net cash proceeds of around $5.3 billion after transaction costs. Separation costs are estimated at $200 million, with half already included in ABB’s 2025 guidance. Transaction-related cash tax outflows are estimated between $400 and $500 million.
Scale of the Robotics Division
The ABB Robotics division employs approximately 7,000 people worldwide. In 2024, it generated $2.3 billion in revenue, representing about 7% of ABB Group sales, with an Operational EBITA margin of 12.1%. ABB highlighted that the Robotics division has limited business and technology synergies with the rest of its portfolio, which is more focused on electrification and process automation.
ABB’s Focus Going Forward
ABB will continue to build on its 140-year history as a global technology leader in electrification and automation. With a workforce of around 110,000 and shares listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and Nasdaq Stockholm, ABB says it remains committed to enabling more sustainable and resource-efficient industrial operations worldwide.
ABB also announced that Sami Atiya, President Robotics & Discrete Automation business area and Member of the Executive Committee, will leave ABB by the end of 2026 in line with the announced divestment of the Robotics division to SoftBank Group. Sami will step down from ABB’s Executive Committee at the end of 2025 and will continue to support the Robotics business and the carve-out process in 2026 as a strategic advisor.
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