TLDR
- SoftBank plans a $30B OpenAI push to drive massive AI growth and scale.
- New funding talks could lift OpenAI’s valuation sharply toward $830B.
- AI infrastructure demand fuels one of tech’s biggest funding rounds.
- SoftBank aims to anchor future AI dominance through long-term capital.
- Stargate data centers highlight the scale of OpenAI’s expansion plans.
SoftBank is weighing a fresh $30 billion commitment to OpenAI as the firm expands its AI push. The talks form part of a broader plan that could lift OpenAI’s valuation to about $830 billion. SoftBank continues to widen its position in the sector as demand for advanced computing accelerates.
SoftBank Considers Major Expansion of Its OpenAI Stake
SoftBank already holds about 11% of OpenAI after a large 2025 investment, and it now seeks deeper exposure. The new talks suggest a long-term strategy that aligns with its broader technology ambitions. Moreover, the potential move would strengthen SoftBank’s influence as OpenAI raises new capital.
The proposed financing joins a planned round that aims to secure more than $100 billion. This effort supports OpenAI’s expansion plans as global competition intensifies. Furthermore, SoftBank appears determined to maintain a leading role in this effort.
The firm reportedly aims to support one of the largest single-company financings in the technology space. The scale highlights growing demands linked to AI development. SoftBank sees this moment as a strategic opening to reinforce its position.
Rising Capital Needs Shape OpenAI’s Funding Push
OpenAI continues to expand its technical footprint, and rapid growth demands significant capital. The development of advanced models requires sustained spending across hardware and research cycles. SoftBank views these structural needs as a reason to strengthen its commitment.
OpenAI is planning heavy long-term spending on infrastructure across data centers and chip capacity. This plan spans the next eight years and may exceed $1.4 trillion in overall investments. Additionally, the new round supports those ambitions as competition rises.
One major project includes a joint effort called Stargate, which focuses on large-scale AI-ready data centers. The project seeks to support national strategic objectives in the broader technological race. SoftBank sees its role in this work as a chance to anchor future growth.
Broader Context Behind SoftBank’s Expanding Strategy
SoftBank placed a large bet on OpenAI in 2025 with a commitment worth more than $40 billion. That move lifted OpenAI’s valuation to about $300 billion during that period. Now, SoftBank positions itself for another major step as market conditions shift.
A later secondary sale pushed OpenAI’s valuation near $500 billion, reflecting rapid sector expansion. The current talks aim to move well beyond that level. Consequently, SoftBank views this moment as a chance to shape a new phase of AI development.
The firm’s broader strategy centers on long-term exposure to advanced computing. It sees OpenAI as a core part of this approach, and the talks reflect that vision. SoftBank continues to target large-scale opportunities that align with its renewed focus on technology leadership.


