SoftBank (9984) Shares Surge 70% Amid AI Investment Risks

SoftBank (9984) shares have increased approximately 70% this year, driven by investor excitement surrounding artificial intelligence and the anticipated IPO of OpenAI, valued at $300 billion. The company's leverage has raised concerns about liquidity, with about 16.3 trillion yen ($104 billion) in interest-bearing debt as of 2025. Analysts warn the heavy reliance on OpenAI, projected to account for 30% of its investment portfolio, exposes SoftBank to significant risk. A negative outlook was issued by S&P Global, highlighting potential deterioration in asset liquidity and financial capacity following a $30 billion investment in OpenAI.