SoftBank Founder Masayoshi Son Raises Concerns Over AI Safety Risks
SoftBank Group founder Masayoshi Son has shifted his tone on artificial intelligence, expressing concerns regarding safety risks as AI systems become increasingly capable.
Masayoshi Son, long known as a prominent advocate for artificial intelligence, is now highlighting the dangers associated with the development of more powerful machines. This shift in perspective comes as SoftBank continues to heavily invest in the sector, with total commitments to OpenAI projected to reach $65 billion by October 2026.
Despite his recent comments on safety, Son has previously dismissed concerns regarding an AI bubble. During SoftBank’s annual general meeting on June 24, 2026, he stated that AI remains in its early stages and rejected the idea that valuations were excessive. Son has also set an ambitious timeline, predicting the arrival of artificial superintelligence—defined as AI 10,000 times smarter than humans—within two years.
The market has demonstrated sensitivity to safety discussions surrounding AI. On September 14, 2026, SoftBank shares fell more than 13% following warnings from leaders at OpenAI and Anthropic regarding safety risks in frontier model development. This decline marked the company's steepest single-day drop in nearly three months.
SoftBank’s financial position adds complexity to these risks. The firm raised $11.1 billion through a junk bond sale this year to fund its AI initiatives amid rising borrowing costs. If increased oversight of frontier AI leads to longer development timelines or higher costs, the company's reliance on leverage could amplify the impact on its returns.
For shareholders, AI safety has transitioned from a theoretical discussion to a factor that directly influences stock performance. Investors are expected to monitor future statements from AI labs, potential regulatory actions regarding self-improving systems, and SoftBank’s ability to manage its debt obligations.
