SoftBank Raises $40bn Loan to Fund OpenAI Investment
SoftBank has just secured a US$40 billion loan to support its investment in OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT. This move underscores its commitment to advancing artificial intelligence amid intensifying global competition.
In its official statement, SoftBank Group Corp said it entered into a bridge facility agreement with a total facility amount of USD 40.0 billion, equivalent to JPY 6,384.0 billion.
“SBG entered into a definitive agreement with OpenAI Group PBC, a U.S.-based company, on February 27, 2026, to make follow-on investments of USD 30.0 billion via SoftBank Vision Fund 2.
“The Bridge Facility Agreement is for the purpose of raising funds required for the Follow-on Investment, as well as for general corporate purposes”.
This unsecured bridge loan is set to mature in March 2027. Leading lenders include JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Mizuho Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking, and MUFG Bank.
The move follows a previous US$30 billion investment through Vision Fund 2.
OpenAI, supported by Microsoft, has gained prominence following widespread adoption of ChatGPT. In this context, SoftBank’s investment is considered strategic for consolidating its position in the significant AI sector.
Against the backdrop of major AI investments, SoftBank and OpenAI have previously initiated the Stargate Project. This initiative aims to build AI infrastructure in the United States with a budget of up to US$500 billion over four years.
SoftBank’s ongoing commitment to AI development reaffirms its long-term strategy. Amidst the fluctuations of Vision Fund profits and losses, this step reflects a renewed focus on future AI potential.
Overall, this loan marks a step forward for the global tech ecosystem. SoftBank continues to strengthen its foothold in advanced technology, particularly AI, with robust financial and infrastructure support.
In December 2024, Son, then President-elect Donald Trump, and SoftBank jointly announced that SoftBank planned to invest $100 billion in AI and related infrastructure in the US over 4 years.
The $40 billion bridge loan is, in part, the mechanism by which that commitment is being funded. Borrowings under the facility are expected to be repaid in stages through to maturity, utilising existing assets and other financing sources. Airtel Africa Rally Paused, Drops New Hints on Share Buyback
