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ABB announced it has signed an agreement to divest its Robotics division to SoftBank Group Corp. for an enterprise value of $5.375 billion, opting not to pursue a spin-off. The deal, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in mid-to-late 2026. ABB will use proceeds per its capital allocation principles.
Chairman Peter Voser said the transaction reflects the division’s strong long-term value and will deliver immediate shareholder benefits. CEO Morten Wierod noted that SoftBank’s AI and robotics expertise will accelerate the division’s growth and leadership in automation. SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son said the collaboration marks a new era in Physical AI, uniting world-class talent and technology. ABB will reorganize into three business areas by Q4 2025, with Robotics reported as discontinued operations and Machine Automation moving to Process Automation.
ABB also confirmed that Sami Atiya, President of Robotics & Discrete Automation, will leave by end-2026 following the divestment. He will step down from ABB’s Executive Committee at the end of 2025 and serve as a strategic advisor through 2026, supporting the carve-out and transition.
(Source: ABB Group)
