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SoftBank’s Strategic Acquisition Of Ampere Computing: A $6.5 Billion Leap Into AI Dominance

In a high-stakes move to achieve supremacy in the artificial intelligence sector, Japanese conglomerate SoftBank has acquired Ampere Computing for a staggering $6.5 billion. Ampere, known for its innovative server chips based on Arm architecture, will remain a standalone subsidiary under SoftBank’s wing. This strategic acquisition underscores SoftBank’s commitment to expanding its AI infrastructure, as it seeks to partner with leading tech firms globally.

Key Transaction Details

  • The deal is poised for completion by the latter half of 2025, as announced by SoftBank.
  • Carlyle Group and Oracle are divesting their stakes in Ampere, while the startup maintains its headquarters in Santa Clara, California.
  • Ampere boasts a robust team of 1,000 semiconductor engineers, underscoring its technical prowess.

Masayoshi Son’s Vision

“The expertise of Ampere in the semiconductor domain will fast-track our AI ambitions and deepen our innovation commitment in the U.S.,” stated Masayoshi Son, SoftBank’s Chairman and CEO.

Ampere’s Bold Future

Rene James, Ampere’s CEO, expressed excitement about joining SoftBank’s illustrious portfolio. “Collaboration with SoftBank will accelerate our roadmap for high-performance Arm processors and AI,” commented James, highlighting Ampere’s future under SoftBank’s strategic umbrella.

This acquisition is a continuation of SoftBank’s investment in Arm’s technology, building on their 2016 acquisition of Arm Holdings for $32 billion. With Ampere, SoftBank looks to expand its reach in the semiconductor world and strengthen its grip on AI solutions.

A Broad Vision

This venture aligns with SoftBank’s earlier partnerships, such as with OpenAI, aiming to create AI-driven corporate solutions. SoftBank’s influence in AI infrastructure is growing, drawing parallels with Cyprus’s own investments in innovation.

With AMP’s rich history and pioneering spirit, the collaboration promises to enhance both companies’ roles in shaping future tech landscapes.

Cyprus Construction Trends: Permit Count Slips While Value and Scale Surge in 2025

The Cyprus Statistical Service (Cystat) has reported a notable shift in the construction landscape for 2025. The latest figures reveal a modest 1.9% decline in building permits issued in March compared to the same month last year, signaling a nuanced trend in the nation’s developmental activities.

Permit Count Decline in March

In March 2025, authorities authorised 572 building permits—down from 583 in March 2024. The permits, which total a value of €361.5 million and cover 296,900 square metres of construction, underscore a cautious pace in permit approval despite ongoing projects. Notably, these permits are set to facilitate the construction of 1,480 dwelling units, reflecting an underlying demand in the housing sector.

Q1 2025: Growth in Value, Construction Area, and Dwelling Units

While the number of permits in the first quarter (January to March) decreased by 15.8% from 1,876 to 1,580, more significant, economically relevant metrics saw robust growth. Total permit value surged by 21.7%, and the authorised construction area expanded by 15.6%. Additionally, the number of prospective dwelling units increased by 16.7% compared to the corresponding period last year. This divergence suggests that although fewer permits were issued, the scale and ambition of the approved projects have intensified.

New Regulatory Framework and the Ippodamos System

Since 1 July 2024, a pivotal transition has taken place in permit administration. The responsibility for issuing permits has moved from municipalities and district administration offices to the newly established local government organisations (EOAs). The integrated information system, Ippodamos, now oversees the licensing process, streamlining data collection on both residential and non-residential projects across urban and rural areas.

Comprehensive Data Collection for Enhanced Oversight

The Ippodamos system categorises construction projects using the EU Classification of Types of Construction (CC). This platform gathers extensive data on the number of permits authorised, project area and value, and the expected number of dwelling units. It covers a broad spectrum of construction activities—from new builds and civil engineering projects to plot divisions and road construction—while excluding renewals and building divisions. The thoroughness of this new regulatory structure promises greater operational transparency and more informed decision-making for policymakers and industry stakeholders.

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