Key Takeaways
- BlackRock, Nvidia, and Microsoft consortium acquires Aligned Data Centers in $40 billion deal
- Aligned operates 50 data center campuses with over 5 gigawatts capacity across Americas
- Deal expected to close in first half of 2026 as part of AI infrastructure expansion
A consortium including BlackRock, Nvidia, and Microsoft is acquiring Aligned Data Centers in a landmark deal valued at approximately $40 billion. This strategic move aims to significantly expand next-generation cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure capabilities.
The acquisition occurs during a period of intense activity in the AI sector, with major players securing resources and addressing critical infrastructure needs like electricity and computing power.
Recent AI Infrastructure Developments
Last week, semiconductor manufacturer AMD announced it will supply chips to OpenAI as part of a collaboration to build AI infrastructure. Under the agreement, OpenAI also secured an option to purchase up to 10% stake in AMD.
This follows last month’s announcement of a $100 billion partnership between OpenAI and Nvidia, which will add at least 10 gigawatts of data center computing power.
Aligned Data Centers Portfolio
Aligned’s extensive portfolio includes 50 campuses with more than 5 gigawatts of operational and planned capacity. The company maintains facilities across the United States and Latin America, including locations in:
- Northern Virginia
- Chicago and Dallas
- Ohio and Phoenix
- Salt Lake City
- Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Queretaro, Mexico
- Santiago, Chile
The privately held company will continue under CEO Andrew Schaap’s leadership and maintain its Dallas headquarters.
Investment Background and Consortium Details
Macquarie Asset Management, one of the sellers, initially invested in Aligned in 2018. Ben Way, head of Macquarie Asset Management, stated: “The scaling of Aligned Data Centers from two locations to 50 in seven years is representative of our approach to working with great companies and teams to support their rapid growth and deliver positive impact.”
This transaction marks the first deal for the newly formed Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Partnership (AIP). The consortium aims to mobilize and deploy $30 billion in equity capital initially, with potential to reach $100 billion including debt financing.
BlackRock Chairman and CEO Larry Fink, who serves as AIP Chairman, commented: “AIP is positioned to meet the growing demand for the infrastructure required as AI continues to reshape the global economy. This partnership is bringing together leading companies and mobilizing private capital to accelerate AI innovation and drive global economic growth and productivity.”
The transaction is expected to finalize in the first half of 2026. Following the announcement, Nvidia shares increased approximately 1% in morning trading.
