SoftBank considers $18 billion acquisition of Allied Universal

SoftBank is reportedly considering the acquisition of Allied Universal, a major US-based security services provider. Negotiations are in the early stages, with a potential equity valuation reaching as high as $18 billion.

Allied Universal is a global leader in the security sector, employing approximately 800,000 people and generating annual revenues of about $23 billion. The company provides services to over 400 Fortune 500 companies across industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and data centers.

The potential deal aligns with SoftBank’s broader strategic focus on integrating artificial intelligence and robotics into service-oriented industries. Analysts suggest the move could be part of an effort to utilize robotics to automate certain security tasks and increase profit margins, following SoftBank's previous investments in robotics and automated cleaning services.