Softbank Aims to Secure $100B From Gulf Investors for AI Ventures

WHO:

Financial Times - Masayoshi Son, founder and chief executive of SoftBank

IJR - SoftBank

WHAT:

Financial Times - SoftBank is seeking to raise up to $100 billion from Gulf investors for a fund aimed at buying companies and enhancing their operations with AI and other advanced technologies.

IJR - SoftBank reportedly seeks up to $100 billion from Gulf investors for an AI fund.

WHERE:

Financial Times - United Arab Emirates (UAE)

WHEN:

Financial Times - Talks have been held in recent weeks.

WHY:

Financial Times - The fund's purpose is to buy firms and remake them with AI.

HOW:

Financial Times - SoftBank has held talks with senior figures in the UAE.

(UPDATED October 9, 2026 08:07 UTC)

SoftBank, led by founder and CEO Masayoshi Son, is in discussions with senior figures in the United Arab Emirates to raise up to $100 billion from Gulf investors for a new fund. This fund aims to acquire companies and enhance their operations using artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. Talks have reportedly taken place in recent weeks as SoftBank seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for AI-driven innovation.