Masayoshi Son Plans to Stay at SoftBank for Another Decade, Accelerating AI and Robotics Transition

Masayoshi Son, Chairman of SoftBank Group [Photo: SoftBank Group]

Masayoshi Son, the chairman of SoftBank Group, has announced that he will remain in a leadership role for at least another decade, abandoning his previous plan to transfer management by his 60s. His goal is to transform SoftBank into a leading global company in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
On June 24, Bloomberg reported that the 68-year-old Son stated, "There is no time to retire," adding that he plans to work for another 10 to 15 years. He also mentioned that he has revised his long-term technology investment strategy, which was originally part of a 50-year plan.
Son's comments come as SoftBank rapidly expands its investments in AI and robotics. The company holds approximately 90% of semiconductor design firm Arm and has pledged around $65 billion to OpenAI. Additionally, SoftBank has agreed to acquire the robotics division of Switzerland's ABB for about $5.4 billion.
The company is also pursuing investments in robotics startups. Reports indicate that SoftBank is in discussions to participate in an $800 million funding round for German startup Agile Robots, having previously led an investment round for the company.
SoftBank is considering establishing a separate AI and robotics company, with plans to launch a firm named 'Roze' in the United States. While the company could be established and go public as early as this year, there is a possibility that the timeline may extend to 2027.

* This article has been translated by AI.

AJP