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Masayoshi Son's Journey: From WeWork Losses to AI Empire

Masayoshi Son, the CEO of SoftBank, has had a rollercoaster ride in recent years. After suffering significant losses from investments like WeWork, he seemed to disappear from the public eye. However, according to a new Financial Times profile, Son was actually "plotting a comeback" while appearing to be "doing penance."

SoftBank's Shift: From WeWork to AI

Son's strategy for this comeback revolves around AI. SoftBank is now making significant investments in AI, with a reported $100 billion earmarked for a new AI chip venture. This shift in focus comes after SoftBank's Vision Fund took substantial losses, particularly from its investment in WeWork.

• SoftBank's Vision Fund lost billions from investments like WeWork.
• Son is now focusing on AI as a key growth area for SoftBank.

AI-Focused Investments and Success

SoftBank is finding success in the AI space by taking chip design company Arm public. Arm's success reflects Son's strategy of betting big on AI and its potential.

• SoftBank is investing heavily in AI, including a new AI chip venture.
• Arm's successful IPO indicates SoftBank's strategy is paying off.

Son's Napoleon Complex: Building an AI Empire

Son's ambition extends beyond just financial success. He compares himself to historical figures like Napoleon, Genghis Khan, and Emperor Qin, emphasizing his desire to "build an empire." This ambition is reflected in SoftBank's focus on AI as a way to dominate the future.

• Son compares himself to Napoleon, Genghis Khan, and Emperor Qin.
• He sees SoftBank as building an AI empire, not just a company.

Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and the One-Business Guys

Son dismissed Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg as "one-business guys," suggesting he sees himself as operating on a grander scale. His vision for SoftBank is to be a major player in shaping the AI landscape, not just a successful technology company.

• Son dismisses Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg as one-dimensional entrepreneurs.
• He wants to be a major player in the AI industry, not just a successful company owner.

SoftBank's Future: A New Era of AI

Son's ambition and focus on AI suggest SoftBank is poised to play a significant role in the future of technology. From his early struggles with WeWork to his current vision of an AI empire, Son's journey illustrates the dynamic nature of innovation and the impact of bold bets on future success.

• SoftBank's focus on AI indicates its potential impact on the future of technology.
• Son's commitment to AI reflects the evolving landscape of the industry.