Samsung in talks to acquire data center cooling maker Modine - report

Samsung is reportedly negotiating to acquire Modine Manufacturing, a company that manufactures cooling systems for data centres. This potential transaction could come to fruition within the next few weeks, according to sources familiar with the matter. However, a final decision has not been reached, and the talks may still fall through, as they are still private.

Other potential buyers could emerge, the sources added. Samsung's representatives did not comment on the matter. As of November 12, Modine's shares closed at US$106.10, with a market value of approximately US$5.6 billion. The stock surged to over US$135 in late trading, marking a 28% increase. Modine's shares had previously declined by around 15% since November 3, following the release of quarterly results that fell short of investor expectations.

Analysts believe that an acquisition of Modine would help diversify Samsung's business, as the company is currently overly reliant on its memory business. Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Masahiro Wakasugi stated that Samsung's memory business may need to find other growth areas, such as data centre-related assets. The discussions around potential acquisitions in the AI market are increasing, with companies like Daikin Industries, LG Electronics, and Vertiv also showing interest.

Modine, based in Racine, Wisconsin, specializes in heavy-duty cooling and heating systems for large commercial buildings and industrial machines. The company's thermal-management business, which serves hyperscalers building data centres, has experienced significant growth, with an annual increase of 86% over the past three fiscal years.

Samsung, a global leader in technology and electronics, has been expanding its thermal solutions offerings for data centres through various international acquisitions, including the purchase of Germany-based FläktGroup for 1.5 billion euros (US$1.7 billion) in 2025.