SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son is redefining his company’s future with a full-throttle strategy centered on artificial intelligence. Core elements include massive OpenAI investments, the ambitious Stargate infrastructure project, and acquisitions like Ampere Computing and control of Arm Holdings—all aimed at establishing SoftBank as the leading platform in Artificial Super-Intelligence (ASI).
SoftBank is executing a multi-phased investment approach in OpenAI. As of Q1 2025, the firm has already allocated around $22.5 billion, with total commitments potentially reaching $40 billion by year-end.
The Stargate project seeks to build large-scale AI infrastructure across the U.S., but it is encountering logistical headwinds around site selection and power sourcing, causing delays.
SoftBank completed an all-cash $6.5 billion acquisition of Ampere Computing, advancing its AI infrastructure ambitions.
In Q1 2025, SoftBank posted a $2.9 billion net profit, supported by gains from its tech holdings (Nvidia, TSMC, Oracle), with Vision Fund markedly boosting overall returns.
Earlier announcements clarified that SoftBank plans to invest up to $43 billion in OpenAI, along with collaboration on infrastructure through Stargate, often alongside Oracle.
Son’s vision extends even further: he is planning a $1 trillion AI and robotics mega-hub in Arizona, engaging with TSMC and the Trump administration. This ambitious project doubles the scale of Stargate.
Investors remain both optimistic and cautious as SoftBank navigates financing, regulatory risk, and the uncertain returns of such sweeping AI commitments.
On corporate leadership, Son disclosed that although he intends to steer SoftBank for another ten years, he has internal succession candidates ready and trusts key executives to carry forward the AI-driven strategy.