MBK Partners has acquired FICT, a leading Japanese semiconductor printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturer, in a 100 billion yen ($655 million or 4.8 billion yuan) deal. The transaction includes an 80% stake acquired by MBK Partners, while the remaining 20% will be purchased by U.S. semiconductor test equipment company FormFactor.

The investment bank sector confirmed that MBK Partners signed a share purchase agreement (SPA) on February 6, finalizing the acquisition from Advantage Partners, FICT's previous majority owner. The deal underscores MBK's strategic focus on the growing demand for AI and cloud computing infrastructure, where high-performance PCBs play a critical role.

FICT: A Pioneer in Advanced PCB Manufacturing

Originally founded in 1967 as Fujitsu's PCB division, FICT became an independent entity and has since evolved into a key player in high-density and high-speed data transmission PCB production. The company has manufactured PCBs for Japan's leading supercomputers, Fugaku and K, demonstrating its technological expertise in advanced circuit board design.

FICT specializes in three core business areas: high-density circuit boards, semiconductor-related PCBs, and precision processing. Its proprietary technology enables ultra-high-density PCB production, significantly improving high-speed signal transmission, a crucial factor in semiconductor equipment and AI-driven applications.

Strategic Vision: AI, Cloud, and Semiconductor Growth

MBK Partners stated that the acquisition aligns with its strategy to capitalize on the rising demand for semiconductor components driven by AI and cloud computing. "This investment supports the long-term growth of FICT by leveraging its technological leadership in PCB manufacturing," MBK Partners explained.

The collaboration with FormFactor, a leading semiconductor test solutions provider, is expected to accelerate innovation in semiconductor packaging and testing, expanding FICT's global reach and enhancing its position in the semiconductor supply chain.

MBK's Fund Expansion and Future Investments

The acquisition is funded through MBK's sixth investment fund, which has raised approximately $3.5 billion since early 2023, with backing from major institutional investors, including CalPERS, the largest U.S. public pension fund. This marks MBK's second major investment from the fund, following its takeover of Korea Zinc's shares in 2023.

With this acquisition, MBK Partners aims to strengthen FICT's global competitiveness while ensuring continued technological advancements in semiconductor PCB production.