China regulator refuses to approve SoftBank's $5.375 billion ABB robotics deal
SoftBank is reviewing the grounds for the block and whether it can reapply, ABB said, as the deal remains un-terminated and talks continue.
China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has told SoftBank Group that it will not approve the company's $5.375 billion acquisition of ABB's robotics business, according to the Financial Times.
ABB said Chinese regulators conveyed their position not to approve the acquisition of its robotics business in China directly to SoftBank. The Swiss industrial company said the transaction has not been officially terminated, and that both companies remain in close talks and are continuing efforts to move it forward.
SoftBank is examining the reasons behind China's decision and reviewing whether it can reapply for approval.
Investors reacted on the Tokyo stock exchange, where SoftBank shares fell about 6.8% on the 5th, while the Nikkei 225 slipped about 0.5%. The stock was also weighed down by a decline in subsidiary Arm Holdings, whose earnings outlook came in below market expectations.
Earlier regulatory hurdles
The deal was signed in October 2025 at a valuation of $5.375 billion, with SoftBank responsible for securing regulatory approval. China had previously blocked Meta's $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus following a security review.
Quick answers
Did China approve SoftBank's purchase of ABB's robotics business?
No. The NDRC told SoftBank it will not approve the $5.375 billion acquisition, according to the Financial Times.
Has the ABB robotics deal been called off?
ABB said the deal has not been officially terminated and that both companies continue talks to move the transaction forward.
How did SoftBank shares react?
SoftBank shares fell about 6.8% on the Tokyo stock exchange on the 5th, while the Nikkei 225 fell about 0.5%.