SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son commits to invest $200 billion in the US after Trump’s on-the-spot request
Nickie Louise
Posted On December 16, 2024
SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son agreed on Monday to double the company’s planned $100 billion investment in the United States to $200 billion. The decision came during an unexpected exchange with President-elect Donald Trump, showcasing Son’s willingness to respond to bold requests and Trump’s signature negotiation style. Son, widely recognized as one of the most daring billionaires, is best known for losing $70 billion virtually overnight.
The moment unfolded as Trump addressed Son directly:
TRUMP: “I’m going to ask him right now, will you make it $200 billion? Believe it or not, he can actually afford to do that.”
Son, smiling, responded with optimism:
MASAYOSHI SON: “With your leadership, my partnership, and your support, I will try to make it happen.”
Trump, visibly satisfied, declared:
TRUMP: “Alright, $200. He’ll make it happen.”
Son followed up with a lighthearted acknowledgment, calling Trump a “great negotiator,” a comment that drew applause from the audience.
ART OF THE DEAL: After Softbank CEO Masayoshi Son will announced a $100 billion investment in the US, President Trump asks him on the spot if he’ll double it:
TRUMP: “I’m going to ask him right now, will you make it $200 billion, believe it or not, he can actually afford to do… pic.twitter.com/ry5M2WNHCb
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) December 16, 2024
Doubling Down on U.S. Growth
SoftBank has already established itself as a powerhouse in global tech investments, with its Vision Fund focusing on startups and disruptive technologies. The original $100 billion commitment was aimed at fueling innovation and creating jobs in the U.S., aligning with Trump’s emphasis on economic development.
The new pledge to increase the investment to $200 billion would solidify SoftBank’s role in driving technological progress and economic growth while expanding its presence in one of the world’s largest markets.
A Glimpse of Trump’s Deal-Making Approach
The exchange also highlighted Trump’s ability to capitalize on high-profile opportunities. By directly asking for a doubling of the investment, he demonstrated his assertive approach to negotiations, pushing for ambitious outcomes that align with his economic agenda.
While specific plans for how SoftBank will execute this expanded investment are still under discussion, the moment underscored the potential of public-private collaboration and bold deal-making to drive meaningful change.
This high-stakes interaction reflects the dynamic relationship between visionary leaders like Son and policymakers looking to create impactful economic opportunities.
