ABB stock faces new hurdle as China blocks SoftBank robotics deal

China has prohibited SoftBank's acquisition of ABB's robotics business in the country, creating a new regulatory obstacle for the planned divestment. ABB said in its update on the Robotics transaction that it had been informed by SoftBank of the prohibition by China's Office of the Working Mechanism for Foreign Investment Security Review.

The notice concerns the Chinese part of the business rather than an announced termination of the overall transaction. ABB and SoftBank remain in close dialogue and are working constructively on the deal, according to the company. SoftBank said on November 6 that it received the notification on November 4 and would announce further decisions when disclosure is required.

Deal Remains Subject To Approval

ABB agreed in October 2025 to sell its Robotics division to SoftBank Group for an enterprise value of USD 5.375 billion. The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, with SoftBank managing the approval process. The Chinese prohibition therefore increases uncertainty over timing, structure and the ability to complete the planned sale.

The Robotics division is strategically important because it links ABB's industrial automation portfolio with a business exposed to factory investment, artificial intelligence and data-center infrastructure. A blocked acquisition in China could force the parties to revisit the transaction perimeter or seek additional regulatory solutions, although neither company has announced such a change.

ABB Stock In The Market

ABB stock traded at 73.24 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 10:08 CET on Friday, November 6, 2026. Investors can follow the real-time quote of ABB stock.

The Swiss market environment remains relevant for ABB investors through the SMI market overview.

Further regulatory decisions will determine whether the parties can preserve the announced transaction or must alter its scope. More news and analyses on ABB stock.