- SoftBank posts profit after Vision Fund rebound
- Masayoshi Son unveils AI “Stargate” project
What happened: SoftBank returns to profit and reveals AI plans
SoftBank posted a net profit of 231 billion yen ($1.5 billion) for Q1 2025. This marks a major turnaround after four consecutive quarters of losses. The improvement was driven by a recovery in SoftBank’s Vision Fund unit, which returned to profitability. Gains from investments in chip design firm Arm and other AI-related assets helped lift results.
SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son used the earnings call to promote a new AI initiative, codenamed “Stargate.” The project aims to create an advanced AI that surpasses human intelligence. Stargate will be housed under a new unit called “Ikigai,” which Son referred to as his life’s purpose.
The company will continue investing heavily in AI and semiconductor ventures. It plans to support Arm’s growth and explore AI hardware developments. The company also hinted at global partnerships to boost its AI capabilities. SoftBank has not shared a detailed roadmap yet but confirmed that AI will be its core future focus.
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Why it’s important
SoftBank’s return to profitability provides room for bold new bets on AI. The Vision Fund’s rebound indicates growing investor confidence in tech investments. Arm’s performance also highlights increasing demand for AI chips. Masayoshi Son’s “Stargate” project signals a long-term commitment to artificial general intelligence. By setting up Ikigai, SoftBank has created a dedicated space for its next-generation AI vision.
The announcement suggests SoftBank will become a key player in the AI race. Its emphasis on hardware, semiconductors, and global collaboration shows a strategic pivot from telecoms to advanced tech. Investors and analysts are now watching how SoftBank funds and executes its AI roadmap. Future disclosures on Stargate’s progress will shape market views on its feasibility and impact.
SoftBank’s latest results and statements show that AI is now central to its identity and future direction.
