New York, 8 October 2025 — BlackRock’s Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) is reportedly in advanced negotiations to acquire Aligned Data Centers, in a potential transaction that could value the Texas-based operator at around $40 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.
One of the Largest Data Center Deals
If finalized, the acquisition would rank among the largest private data center transactions ever, underscoring the surging demand for digital infrastructure driven by the global artificial intelligence boom. The deal would also significantly expand BlackRock’s footprint in one of the fastest-growing corners of the technology sector.
Aligned’s Growth and Market Position
Founded in Plano, Texas, Aligned operates 78 data centers across 50 campuses in the United States and South America, with more than 5 gigawatts of capacity either in operation or development. Backed by Macquarie Asset Management, the company raised over $12 billion in equity and debt commitments earlier this year to accelerate expansion. Its clients include hyperscale cloud providers and AI-focused firms.
Strategic Partners and Context
The talks also involve MGX, an Abu Dhabi-based AI investment company backed by Mubadala Investment Co. and G42, which already holds a minority stake in Aligned. MGX is expected to invest independently as part of the transaction.
For BlackRock, the deal would build on its 2021 joint acquisition of CyrusOne with KKR for $15 billion, nearly tripling that valuation in just four years. Analysts note the move reflects growing investor appetite for infrastructure underpinning AI, cloud computing, and data-intensive industries.
Outlook
While negotiations remain ongoing and terms could still change, a successful agreement would cement BlackRock’s position as a leading global player in AI-era infrastructure investment. It also highlights the escalating competition among investors to secure assets central to the next wave of technological transformation.
