SoftBank Considers $18 Billion Acquisition of Security Giant Allied Universal
SoftBank is reportedly considering an $18 billion acquisition of US security giant Allied Universal. The potential deal aims to bolster Masayoshi Son's AI and robotics strategy.
Japanese investment giant SoftBank is considering the acquisition of Allied Universal in a deal that could value the US security services provider at approximately $18 billion, according to sources familiar with the matter. Allied Universal supplies security personnel for businesses, events, and performances, and has recently expanded into the data center industry as a developer and operator.
The potential acquisition would strengthen SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son's focus on AI, aligning with his strategy to integrate AI-driven robots across various industries and bolster necessary technological infrastructure. Following the acquisition, SoftBank might eventually replace human security guards with robots in certain tasks, though the development of humanoid security personnel is expected to take longer.
Discussions regarding the deal remain in early stages and no final decisions have been made, Bloomberg reported. SoftBank is renowned for its massive technology investments through its Vision Fund. The potential transaction represents another major push by SoftBank into robotics and automation, following deals last year to acquire the robotics business of Swiss engineering group ABB for $5.4 billion.
