Key Facts
• On August 19, 2025, SoftBank Group announced a $2 billion investment in Intel.
• The investment equals approximately ¥300 billion in Japanese yen.
• SoftBank aims to strengthen its AI-related business portfolio.
• Earlier in 2025, SoftBank planned a ¥1 trillion acquisition of U.S. chip design firm Ampere.
• The company also announced a ¥4.8 trillion investment in OpenAI for generative AI.
• Intel has faced prolonged financial struggles due to slow AI semiconductor development.
• U.S. media reported the Trump administration is considering acquiring 10% of Intel’s shares.
• SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son emphasized the importance of semiconductors for all industries.
• Son expressed hopes for Intel’s advanced semiconductor production to grow within the U.S.
Summary
SoftBank Group has announced a $2 billion (approximately ¥300 billion) investment in U.S. semiconductor giant Intel, as part of its strategy to accelerate AI-related investments. This move follows SoftBank’s earlier plans in 2025 to acquire U.S. chip design company Ampere for ¥1 trillion and invest ¥4.8 trillion in OpenAI. Intel has been struggling with financial difficulties due to slow progress in AI semiconductor development. Reports suggest the Trump administration is considering acquiring a 10% stake in Intel. SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son highlighted the critical role of semiconductors in global industries and expressed optimism about Intel’s potential to advance semiconductor production and supply within the U.S.
