BlackRock Teams Up with IFM in Pursuit of Stack's Asia-Pacific Data Centers, Valued at Up to $25 Billion
A consortium backed by BlackRock (BLK.US) and IFM Investors is in exclusive talks to acquire Stack Infrastructure Inc.'s Asia-Pacific data centers, valued at $20B-$25B. Stack is owned by Blue Owl Capital (OWL.US). The deal, if finalized, would be among the largest data center transactions in the region, reflecting strong AI growth trends.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
The transaction would be one of the largest data‑center deals in the region, expanding BlackRock's AI infrastructure platform.
Market read
First disclosure of a multi‑billion AI infrastructure acquisition, relevant for investors in BlackRock, Blue Owl, and the broader data‑center sector.
What to watch
Potential competition from other sovereign wealth funds and local operators.
Background
BlackRock and IFM Investors are forming a consortium to acquire Stack's data center assets across Japan, Australia and Malaysia.
Ticker impact
BlackRock is part of a consortium negotiating to acquire Stack's Asia‑Pacific data center assets valued up to $25 bn.
Bullish pressure on BLK as investors price in deal upside.
Deal size and strategic fit are material; first public disclosure.
Blue Owl Capital owns Stack Infrastructure and is negotiating a sale of its Asia‑Pacific data center portfolio.
Potential upside for OWL if transaction closes at high valuation.
First report of a $20‑25 bn sale; material for shareholder value.
Market effects
Accelerates AI‑related infrastructure M&A activity in Asia‑Pacific.
May lift sentiment for Asian data‑center REITs and infrastructure funds.
Highlights growing demand for AI compute capacity worldwide.
Counterpoint
Deal could face regulatory or valuation hurdles, limiting upside.
Key entities
- Asset ManagerBlackRock
US‑listed investment firm leading the acquisition consortium.
- Asset ManagerBlue Owl Capital
Current owner of Stack Infrastructure, seeking to sell the Asia‑Pacific portfolio.
