Sources with inside knowledge of the situation reveal that Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) is deeply embroiled in advanced negotiations to acquire Aligned Data Centers, a company that enjoys the backing of Macquarie Group. The valuation of Aligned is projected to soar to a staggering $40 billion, with an official announcement of the deal anticipated in the coming days. AI-focused investment firm MGX is also in the fray, set to make an independent investment. Meanwhile, Mubadala has already made prior investments in Aligned. Moreover, GIP has set its sights on the acquisition of AES Corp. as well. At present, GIP has not yet inked a definitive agreement with Aligned, leaving open the possibility that the talks could fall through. Since the emergence of ChatGPT, there has been a flurry of related transactions. However, the skyrocketing valuations have sparked concerns among certain market players about the potential for a bubble. Digital infrastructure has emerged as a highly sought-after investment sector. If GIP successfully acquires Aligned for $40 billion, this transaction would rank among the top five global deals of the year. It's worth noting that GIP is also a co-owner of CyrusOne, alongside KKR Group. Recent activity in related transactions has been brisk, with MGX planning to raise up to $25 billion specifically for AI infrastructure projects.