ABB stock faces robotics deal setback after China blocks SoftBank bid

ABB Ltd said Thursday, November 5, that it had been informed by SoftBank Group that Chinese regulators blocked the Japanese technology company's planned acquisition of ABB's robotics business in China. The confirmation followed a report by the Morningstar report, published by Dow Jones Newswires.

Regulatory block changes deal outlook

The transaction, agreed in October 2025, carried an enterprise value of USD 5.375 billion. The planned purchase would have given SoftBank control of ABB's robotics division, a business central to the Japanese group's expansion in physical artificial intelligence.

ABB said it is in close dialogue with SoftBank and that both companies are working constructively on the transaction. SoftBank declined to comment when contacted in the report. The statement leaves the timing and ultimate completion of the planned divestment uncertain.

Portfolio reshaping under pressure

For ABB, the regulatory setback affects a divestment that would have separated the robotics operation from the group's electrification and automation portfolio. The company is now required to navigate the Chinese regulatory obstacle together with SoftBank before the agreed transaction can advance.

The real-time quote of ABB stock was 76.62 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 10:47 CET on Thursday, November 5.

Swiss equities trade within the broader SMI market environment.

Investors will focus next on whether ABB and SoftBank can resolve the Chinese regulatory obstacle, whether the transaction terms change and how the delay affects ABB's planned portfolio allocation. More news and analyses on ABB stock.