SoftBank Eyes Allied Universal as a Testing Ground for Security Robots

SoftBank Group Corp. sees a possible acquisition of Allied Universal as a way to test security robots across a large U.S. business, adding a robotics purpose to a deal with a potential equity value of up to $18 billion.

SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son views Allied’s operations as a potential place to try technology from companies the group backs. If a deal proceeds, SoftBank would look to use robots for some security tasks. Humanoid security robots would likely take longer to deploy.

The possible acquisition of Allied Universal remains under discussion. The $18 billion figure is a potential value for Allied’s equity, not an agreed purchase price.

Allied is the largest U.S. security services company. It employs about 770,000 people across more than 100 countries, providing staff for businesses, venues and major events. Its work also extends to data centers.

SoftBank agreed in October 2025 to buy ABB’s robotics business for $5.375 billion. Allied’s workforce and range of assignments would give the group a substantial setting in which to explore security uses for robotics if the acquisition goes ahead.

The potential purchase comes as SoftBank’s financing costs draw attention. Its five-year credit default swap spread reached 432 basis points Oct. 20, the highest since early November 2022, amid scrutiny of its AI investments and the possible acquisition. The Allied talks have yet to produce an agreed price.