SoftBank Finalizes $40 Billion OpenAI Investment, Paving Way for AI Infrastructure Expansion
SoftBank has completed its monumental $40 billion investment in OpenAI, with a final payment of $22 billion transferred last week. The Japanese conglomerate now commands over 10% ownership in the AI pioneer, cementing its position as a major backer of Sam Altman's venture. Initial investments totaled $8 billion, supplemented by an additional $10 billion from syndicated co-investors.
The deal, structured at a $260 billion pre-money valuation, accelerates OpenAI's preparations for an IPO and its ambitious infrastructure plans. Over $1.4 trillion will be deployed for AI hardware collaborations with industry leaders like Nvidia, AMD, and Broadcom. SoftBank's recent $5.8 billion Nvidia divestment appears strategically aligned with this capital allocation.
