SoftBank Seeks Billions in Overseas Bonds to Accelerate AI Expansion

SoftBank Group Corp. (TYO:9984) is once again tapping global debt markets as it ramps up investments in artificial intelligence. According to Bloomberg, the Japanese tech conglomerate plans to raise between $1.5 billion and $2 billion in U.S. dollar bonds, alongside approximately €500 million ($580 million) in euro-denominated bonds. This marks SoftBank’s second overseas bond issuance in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to aggressive AI expansion and infrastructure development.

At the center of this strategy is a massive $40 billion investment in OpenAI and a $500 billion partnership aimed at building new AI data centers across the United States. These initiatives highlight SoftBank’s ambition to position itself as a global AI powerhouse, combining large-scale capital investment with strategic technology alliances.

SoftBank’s renewed confidence in AI is paying off. Its AI and tech portfolio valuations have surged over the past two years, helping the company return to profitability in its fiscal first quarter. The turnaround reflects a broader recovery following years of volatile performance from its Vision Fund and technology holdings.

Earlier this month, SoftBank also acquired the robotics division of Swiss engineering giant ABB, a move designed to merge artificial intelligence and robotics to create next-generation “tangible AI” solutions. This acquisition aligns with the company’s broader mission to commercialize AI-driven automation across industries.

Despite the bullish outlook, SoftBank shares slipped 5.2% on Wednesday, as investors took profits following record highs on Tuesday. Still, analysts view the bond issuance as a sign of strong liquidity and long-term vision. With AI at the core of its strategy, SoftBank continues to pursue transformative growth in the rapidly evolving global tech ecosystem.