Zheng Quan Shi Bao Wang·2025-10-09 13:17Core Insights - ABB has signed an agreement to sell its robotics business unit to SoftBank Group for an enterprise valuation of $5.375 billion, abandoning previous plans for an independent IPO of the robotics unit [1] - The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions, expected to be completed in mid-2026 [1] - SoftBank's CEO Masayoshi Son stated that the next strategic frontier for SoftBank is Physical AI, aiming to integrate super artificial intelligence with robotics technology [1] Group 1: Transaction Details - The sale reflects the long-term strength of ABB's robotics division and is expected to create immediate value for ABB shareholders [1] - ABB will use the proceeds from the transaction according to its established capital allocation principles, maintaining its focus on long-term strategies in the electrical and automation sectors [1] - The deal is anticipated to generate approximately $2.4 billion in non-operating pre-tax book gains, with expected net cash proceeds of about $5.3 billion after transaction costs [2] Group 2: Business Impact - Following the agreement, ABB will restructure its financial reporting into three main divisions, with the robotics unit classified as a "discontinued operation" starting from Q4 2025 [2] - The mechanical automation business unit, currently part of the robotics and discrete automation division, will be integrated into the process automation division [2] - ABB's robotics unit employs around 7,000 people and is projected to generate $2.3 billion in sales revenue in 2024, accounting for 7% of ABB's total revenue, with an operating EBITDA margin of 12.1% [3] Group 3: SoftBank's Strategic Vision - SoftBank is positioning itself as a leader in the AI and robotics sectors, with recent investments in AI projects, including a $500 billion initiative for data centers and a partnership with OpenAI for enterprise-level AI services [3] - The acquisition of ABB's robotics business aligns with SoftBank's broader strategy to enhance its capabilities in next-generation computing and sustainable AI [3]