SoftBank makes $2B investment in Intel

Japanese conglomerate SoftBank has agreed to invest $2 billion in Intel by purchasing common stock at $23 per share, signaling a strong commitment to advanced semiconductor technology and manufacturing in the United States. The deal, announced after market hours on August 18, 2025, led to a more than 5% increase in Intel’s share price. SoftBank Group Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son emphasized that the investment reflects confidence in the expansion of U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturing, with Intel playing a pivotal role, especially amid growing interest in AI chip development. This investment serves as a significant validation for Intel, which has faced competitive pressures from companies like Nvidia and is currently undergoing a restructuring under new CEO Lip-Bu Tan. Intel is focusing on streamlining its semiconductor business, particularly its client and data center segments, while reducing workforce in its Intel Foundry division. The deal also aligns with SoftBank’s renewed focus on the U.S. market and AI technologies, complementing its recent activities such