Major Workforce Reduction in Global Restructuring
SoftBank's Vision Fund is reducing its workforce by approximately 20% worldwide—marking the third staff cut since 2022. This significant move underscores SoftBank’s strategic pivot towards large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives, especially in the United States. Reports indicate the Vision Fund is now operating with only 44 employees, reflecting a dramatic streamlining as the company seeks greater operational efficiency and organizational focus[2][3].
Masayoshi Son Champions Aggressive AI Strategy
Founder Masayoshi Son is steering the Vision Fund’s aggressive transition to high-risk, high-reward investments in AI technologies. Key elements of the new strategy include:
- A $9.7 billion investment in OpenAI, highlighting SoftBank’s confidence in large language models and generative AI.
- A $500 billion “Stargate” infrastructure partnership with OpenAI, targeting massive new U.S. data center buildouts.
- Major stakes in semiconductor giants such as NVIDIA and Intel, critical for an emerging global AI ecosystem.
Despite ambitious expansion, some projects have faced delays. Nonetheless, SoftBank says it remains financially strong, reporting about 4 trillion yen in cash reserves as of August 2025[2].
Strategic Shift Driven by Past Setbacks
The reorganization follows a period of high volatility and losses in SoftBank’s tech investments. The Vision Fund experienced significant financial setbacks in companies such as Coupang and Didi, driving a need to consolidate resources and tighten risk controls[3]. In response, the Vision Fund is also exploring diversification into sectors like biotech and cybersecurity.
Implications for the Tech Investment Landscape
- The reduction in headcount reflects a broader industry trend toward leaner, more efficient operations among technology investors.
- By narrowing its portfolio and concentrating capital on high-conviction bets, SoftBank aims to improve decision-making speed and capitalize on disruptive opportunities in AI.
- The Vision Fund’s renewed focus on building an integrated AI ecosystem—spanning infrastructure, software, and semiconductors—signals a transformative shift in global tech investment priorities[3].
SoftBank’s strategic recalibration may serve as a bellwether for other investors navigating the unpredictable but potentially lucrative world of next-generation AI.
