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SoftBank Eyes Majority Stake in 1X at $6B Valuation

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SoftBank is in talks to acquire a majority stake in OpenAI-backed humanoid robot developer 1X Technologies, in a deal that could value the startup at around $6 billion, according to a report by The Information citing people familiar with the matter. The talks are ongoing, and terms could still change.

The potential investment would strengthen SoftBank’s growing focus on robotics and artificial intelligence. OpenAI invested in 1X in 2023 through its startup fund, alongside Tiger Global and Norway-based investors. OpenAI and 1X had also discussed the possibility of an acquisition last year.

The move follows SoftBank’s broader expansion into the robotics sector. Last year, the Japanese conglomerate agreed to acquire Swiss engineering group ABB’s robotics business for about $5.4 billion, highlighting its ambition to build a stronger position in the rapidly developing robotics industry.

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AI Boom Drives Surge in European Chip & Electrical Stocks

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European semiconductor and electrical equipment stocks climbed sharply as investor confidence grew around the expanding artificial intelligence (AI) boom. Companies seen as key players in AI infrastructure benefited from strong earnings and optimistic forecasts, mirroring a powerful rally in U.S. chip stocks. The surge reflects increasing global demand for advanced chips and supporting technologies as AI adoption accelerates.

Dutch chip equipment maker ASM International jumped to a record high after projecting stronger-than-expected second-quarter sales, driven by robust AI demand. Meanwhile, Swiss engineering giant ABB also raised its full-year outlook, citing increased demand from data centres and electrification businesses despite geopolitical uncertainties.

Other major European players, including ASML, Infineon, and STMicroelectronics, recorded solid gains. Analysts believe that years of weak investment are now giving way to an AI-led growth cycle, with spending expected to accelerate from 2026 as companies invest heavily in digital infrastructure, energy, and supply chain resilience.

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