SoftBank Reportedly Seeks $100 Billion From Gulf Investors for a New AI Fund
SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son is reportedly seeking up to $100 billion from Middle Eastern investors to create a new fund focused on artificial intelligence, according to the Financial Times. Reuters said it could not independently verify the report, and the talks are described as preliminary.
A different kind of AI fund
Instead of backing young startups the way a traditional venture fund would, the proposed vehicle would reportedly buy established businesses and use AI to improve how they operate. SoftBank has held discussions with senior figures in the United Arab Emirates and possibly other Gulf countries.
The backdrop
The effort follows SoftBank's recently completed $30 billion investment in OpenAI and an $11.1 billion corporate bond sale to support its expanding AI commitments.
Why it matters
If the strategy works, AI adoption could spread faster across traditional industries, with owners pushing automation into existing operations. If it does not, it adds to a growing list of very large bets that depend on AI delivering strong returns.
Sources: Financial Times and Reuters, as summarized by TechStartups AI roundup (Oct 5-9, 2026).
Shop This Look
Add a modern, forward-looking touch to your home or office with these canvas prints from Roseson Studios:
$50
Product Title
Product Details goes here with the simple product description and more information can be seen by clicking the see more button. Product Details goes here with the simple product description and more information can be seen by clicking the see more button
$50
Product Title
Product Details goes here with the simple product description and more information can be seen by clicking the see more button. Product Details goes here with the simple product description and more information can be seen by clicking the see more button.
$50
Product Title
Product Details goes here with the simple product description and more information can be seen by clicking the see more button. Product Details goes here with the simple product description and more information can be seen by clicking the see more button.
Comments