SoftBank Group Returns to Profit in First Quarter
SoftBank Group Corp., the Japanese conglomerate led by Masayoshi Son, reported a net profit for the first quarter of its fiscal year, marking a positive shift after several periods of losses. This rebound comes as SoftBank’s Vision Fund investments start showing signs of recovery, despite continued caution in global tech markets.
Key Financial Highlights
- SoftBank posted a net profit of 785 billion yen ($5 billion) for the quarter ending June 30, 2025.
- This follows a 3.16 trillion yen loss reported in the same period the previous year.
- The rebound is partly attributed to gains from investments in technology stocks and improvements in portfolio companies’ performance.
Delayed Stargate Timeline Affects Anticipated Launch
Despite the positive financial news, SoftBank announced a delay to the launch of its ambitious
Stargate AI project. Originally expected earlier, Stargate’s launch has now been pushed back to 2026 due to ongoing technical challenges and the complexity of large-scale AI model training.
- The Stargate project, a next-generation AI initiative involving advanced language models, remains a cornerstone of SoftBank’s growth strategy.
- Masayoshi Son emphasized that, despite the delay, SoftBank remains committed to accelerated investment in artificial intelligence.
Investment Activity and AI Expansion
SoftBank has been ramping up stakes in major AI-driven companies. The Vision Fund’s focus has shifted from high-growth startups to more mature tech firms, aiming to balance risk and long-term benefit. The company also highlighted continued partnerships with leading AI platforms such as
ChatGPT and targeted investments in generative AI technologies.
- SoftBank’s stockholdings in US and Asian tech companies posted gains, contributing to the quarterly profits.
- Investments in AI platforms and generative AI continue to be central to the group’s future roadmap.
Outlook and Market Reaction
Analysts remain cautiously optimistic about SoftBank’s trajectory. The firm’s renewed focus on artificial intelligence and improved investment strategy are seen as potential levers for sustained profitability. However, the delay in the Stargate project remains a source of uncertainty.
SoftBank’s shares gained modestly in response to the earnings announcement, reflecting investor relief at the return to profit and ongoing belief in the group’s AI ambitions.
