Ultime notizie per SoftBank Group (OTC:SFTBF) Azioni

SoftBank is a Japan-based telecom and e-commerce conglomerate that has expanded mainly through acquisitions, and its key assets include a 40%-owned mobile and fixed broadband telecom operator business in Japan. It also owns 90% of semiconductor chip designer Arm Holdings following the 2023 IPO of this business, and has a vast portfolio of mainly internet- and e-commerce-focused early-stage investments. It is also general partner of the $100 billion SoftBank Vision Fund 1 and sole investor in SoftBank Vision Fund 2, both of which primarily invest in pre-IPO internet companies.

SOFTBANK GROUP CORP by Softbank Group Corp

SoftBank Group Corp

Masayoshi Son, CEO of SoftBank Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>), has forecasted the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/40836225/human-like-reasoning-strawberry-ahead-aggressive-nvidia-buying-hotter-inflation-data">advent of artificial superintelligence</a> within the next ten years. This revelation was shared during the SoftBank World 2024 conference.
What Happened: Son, Japan&#8217;s second wealthiest individual, commended OpenAI for its recent technological strides. He specifically mentioned the new GPT-o1 models, codenamed &#8220;Strawberry,&#8221; which he believes have developed reasoning capabilities, <a href="https://observer.com/2024/10/softbank-masayoshi-son-ai-openai-investment/">reported</a> the Observer on Friday. 
"This technology will evolve to a point&nbsp;where your happiness will be its greatest reward," said Son. He claimed that ASI, which would be 10,000 times more powerful than human intelligence, could be achieved within a decade.
Son envisions a future where AI can perform everyday tasks, such as grocery shopping and investment management, ultimately enhancing human happiness. His optimistic outlook is consistent with his history of making bold tech investments.
Looking forward, Son anticipates the achievement of artificial general intelligence, which matches human intelligence, within two to three years. 
He also predicts artificial superintelligence, surpassing human capabilities, within a decade. SoftBank&#8217;s AI strategy is centered around ARM Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>), a U.K.-based chip designer, with plans to expand into AI chips, data centers, and industrial robots.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41020589/tech-youtuber-mkbhd-responds-after-facing-massive-backlash-over-his-new-12-a-month-wallpaper-app?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tech YouTuber MKBHD Responds After Facing Massive Backlash Over His New $12 A Month Wallpaper App</a>
Why It Matters: Son&#8217;s prediction comes amid <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/40836225/human-like-reasoning-strawberry-ahead-aggressive-nvidia-buying-hotter-inflation-data">growing interest</a> in A.I. advancements, particularly with OpenAI&#8217;s &#8220;Strawberry&#8221; models. These models are noted for their human-like reasoning capabilities, which could revolutionize various industries.
However, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40387488/masayoshi-sons-plans-to-rival-nvidia-with-softbanks-own-ai-chip-production-hit-a-roadblock-as-intel">SoftBank&#8217;s ambitions</a> to rival NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) in A.I. chip production reportedly faced setbacks when talks with Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) fell through. Despite this, SoftBank is exploring partnerships with other manufacturers like Taiwan Semiconductor (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>).
Additionally, Son&#8217;s focus on AI aligns with Sam Altman&#8216;s commitment to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38608040/openais-sam-altman-says-were-making-agi-and-it-will-be-worth-it-dont-care-if-we-burn-500m-or-50b">developing artificial general intelligence</a>, regardless of the financial cost. This shared vision underscores the significant investments and strategic shifts occurring in the A.I. sector.
Interestingly, SoftBank&#8217;s past decision to sell its Nvidia shares in 2019 resulted in a missed opportunity, as those shares would <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/06/39489510/the-150-billion-opportunity-softbank-lost-by-selling-nvidia-shares-too-soon">now be approximately worth over $150 billion</a>. This highlights the high stakes and rapid evolution of the AI and tech investment landscape.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41087674/openais-searchgpt-set-to-disrupt-googles-search-empire-as-former-engineer-sounds-alarm-on-deteriorat?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI&#8217;s SearchGPT Set To Disrupt Google&#8217;s Search Empire As Former Engineer Sounds Alarm On Deteriorating User Experience Amid Rising Competition</a></li>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

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SFTBY

SoftBank's Masayoshi Son Predicts Artificial Superintelligence Within A Decade After Testing OpenAI's 'Strawberry' Models

Masayoshi Son-led SoftBank Group Corporation (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>)&nbsp;has reportedly re-committed to a $500 million investment in ChatGPT-parent&nbsp;OpenAI.
What Happened: This investment forms part of a larger $6.5 billion funding round, catapulting OpenAI&#8217;s valuation to a staggering $150 billion, <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/b1efdc2a-4dbc-40cc-920e-2cf389d261e8">reported</a> Financial Times, citing two people with knowledge of the deal.
The investment will be made through SoftBank&#8217;s second Vision Fund, primarily backed by the personal wealth of the company&#8217;s leader, Son.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41087674/openais-searchgpt-set-to-disrupt-googles-search-empire-as-former-engineer-sounds-alarm-on-deteriorat?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI&#8217;s SearchGPT Set To Disrupt Google&#8217;s Search Empire As Former Engineer Sounds Alarm On Deteriorating User Experience Amid Rising Competition</a>
This move will add SoftBank to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40636153/apple-in-talks-to-invest-in-openai-as-chatgpt-makers-valuation-climbs-to-100b-report">list of existing investors</a>, which includes Thrive Capital and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
Despite the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41059344/sam-altman-hits-back-at-trolls-after-mira-muratis-openai-exit-explains-executive-drain-as-natural-we">high-profile departures</a> from OpenAI and potential corporate restructuring, investors remain optimistic about the company&#8217;s ability to push the boundaries&nbsp;of AI technology, the report noted.
They are&nbsp;betting on OpenAI&#8217;s potential to outperform big tech rivals like&nbsp;Google and Meta, as well&nbsp;as startups&nbsp;such as Anthropic and Mistral.
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: Son has previously referred to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/09/34682813/softbanks-masayoshi-son-is-chatgpt-heavy-user-explores-investing-in-openai-after-bumper-arm-ipo">himself as an avid user</a> of OpenAI's chat service and has formed a strong connection with the company's CEO, Sam Altman.
He considers Altman to be one of the most influential figures in the world and has said that they communicate daily. 
SoftBank already works with OpenAI in Japan, helping local businesses create advanced chatbots.
Last month, Apple design legend Sir Jony Ive also confirmed his collaboration with OpenAI on a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40973399/apples-former-design-maestro-jony-ive-confirms-hes-joined-forces-with-openais-sam-altman-for-a-new-a">new AI hardware project</a>. Earlier, it was reported that Altman and Ive are seeking to secure $1 billion in funding from SoftBank for their new venture.
Meanwhile, Apple has reportedly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41078582/tim-cook-led-apple-reportedly-abandons-openai-funding-round-discussions-but-nvidia-and-microsoft-cou">pulled out of talks to invest</a> in OpenAI's upcoming funding round. The withdrawal occurred at the last minute, just ahead of the funding round's expected closure.
Image via ChatGPT
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Media

MSFT

After Apple Reportedly Backed Out, SoftBank Eyes $500M Investment In ChatGPT Parent, Pushing Valuation To $150B

Struggling chipmaker Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>)&nbsp;continues to receive <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40968128/qualcomm-reportedly-eyes-potential-takeover-of-intel-amid-60-stock-decline-but-antitrust-concerns-lo" rel="noreferrer noopener">takeover proposals from</a> chip companies, the latest being Arm Holdings Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) following Qualcomm Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) proposal earlier.
Arm Holdings recently proposed to acquire Intel&#8217;s product unit. However, Bloomberg <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-09-27/arm-rejected-by-intel-after-approaching-it-about-buying-product-unit?sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> that Intel is not looking to sell the business division.
Intel stock plunged 31% as it failed to capitalize on the artificial intelligence shift, which is something that contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) excelled at.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41012678/super-micro-unveils-next-gen-servers-powered-by-intels-latest-xeon-chips" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Micro Unveils Next-Gen Servers Powered by Intel&#8217;s Latest Xeon Chips</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/27091711/newplot-1-7.png" alt="" class="wp-image-569782" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/27091711/newplot-1-7.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/27091711/newplot-1-7-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
Meanwhile, some reports indicated Intel&#8217;s plans to convert its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40897994/whats-going-on-with-intel-stock-on-tuesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">foundry business into</a> an independent unit, including exploring a spinoff into a publicly traded company. The chipmaker also explored divesting stake in the programmable chip unit&nbsp;Altera.
However, Intel&#8217;s recent big wins included a&nbsp;U.S. chipmaking deal from&nbsp;Amazon.Com Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Amazon Web services and the U.S. Chip grant.
The chipmaker also clarified that it would not divest a majority stake in the struggling <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40941075/whats-going-on-with-autonomous-driving-stock-mobileye-thursday" rel="noreferrer noopener">Israeli autonomous driving company</a> Mobileye Global Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MBLY#NASDAQ">MBLY</a>), whose stock is down 66% in the last 12 months.
Intel&#8217;s exploration of stake sales to companies like Qualcomm and Arm could hinder its U.S. subsidy over antitrust grounds, the Financial Times <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ft.com/content/ff0ca77d-ad35-45ba-a493-201a26932efb" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
Multiple deals including Nvidia&#8217;s proposal to snap Arm Holdings from&nbsp;Softbank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) and Intel&#8217;s&nbsp;Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSEM#NASDAQ">TSEM</a>) deal have succumbed to global regulatory opposition.
The semiconductor sector had a good week, buoyed by the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/09/41046485/whats-going-on-with-nvidia-braodcom-intel-and-other-chip-stocks-on-thursday" rel="noreferrer noopener">key rate cuts</a> in the U.S. and China, an upbeat quarterly print from Micron Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>), and continued AI investments from Big Tech companies.
Semiconductor ETFs, Invesco Semiconductors ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PSI#NYSE">PSI</a>) and SPDR S&amp;P Semiconductor ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XSD#NYSE">XSD</a>), gained 5%- 7% in the last five days.
Price Action: INTC stock is down 0.04% at $23.91 at the last check on Friday.
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What's Going On With Intel Stock On Friday?

These ten mid-cap stocks were the best performers in August. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Polestar Automotive Holding (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PSNY#NASDAQ">PSNY</a>) shares jumped 74.19%. It reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40629765" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strong second-quarter deliveries</a>.</li>
<li>Upstart Holdings, Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPST#NASDAQ">UPST</a>) stock escalated 67.32% after the company reported better-than-<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40322490" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected second-quarter results</a>.</li>
<li>Lumen Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUMN#NYSE">LUMN</a>) shares rocketed 58.13%. It reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40204727" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mixed second-quarter results</a>.</li>
<li>GDS Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDS#NASDAQ">GDS</a>) shares rose 52.46%. The company reported a better-than-consensus <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40487035" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">second-quarter loss per share</a>.</li>
<li>Tempus AI, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>) stock gained 51.17%. The stock got a boost from investments by Google<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40419923" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> and </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40419923" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SoftBank Group Corp</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40419923" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> (OTCPK: SFTBF)</a>.</li>
<li>Clear Secure, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YOU#NYSE">YOU</a>) shares were up 46.81%. It reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40181525" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">better-than-expected quarterly results</a>.</li>
<li>Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IOVA#NASDAQ">IOVA</a>) stock jumped 42.89%. The company issued upbeat guidance for 2024 and 2025 and better-than-<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40288203" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected second-quarter earnings</a>.</li>
<li>Evolent Health, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVH#NYSE">EVH</a>) shares escalated 42.51%. The company initiated an auction process after receiving takeover inquiries from private<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40529349" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> equity firms and healthcare providers</a>.</li>
<li>Semtech Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMTC#NASDAQ">SMTC</a>) stock rose 42.23%. It reported a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40587744" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">second-quarter earnings beat</a>.</li>
<li>AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>) shares grew 42.07%. The company announced that it&#8217;s on track to launch five <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40398813" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellites in early September</a>.</li>
</ol>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40764288/affirm-shopify-and-starbucks-were-among-top-10-large-cap-best-performers-for-august-are-the-others" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Affirm, Shopify And Starbucks Were Among Top 10 Large Cap Best Performers For August: Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40764325/intel-moderna-and-dollar-general-were-among-top-10-large-cap-losers-in-august-are-the-others-in-yo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intel, Moderna And Dollar General Were Among Top 10 Large Cap Losers In August: Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>
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AST SpaceMobile And Polestar Automotive Are Among Top 10 Best Performing Mid-Cap Stocks in August: Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

Tempus AI Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), a cutting-edge healthcare diagnostics company, has been on a tear. The stock established a new high of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TEM">$47.81 on Thursday</a>.
The stock is up 17.27% since its IPO in June. The company, which went public at $37 per share, and has been riding a wave of momentum ever since. 
Over the past five days, Tempus is up about 25% — a spike largely attributed to a strategic investment from SoftBank Group Corp (OTCPK: SFTBF) (OTCBF: SFTBY).
According to SoftBank's <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1065521/000106299324015034/xslForm13F_X02/primary_doc.xml">second-quarter 13F filing</a>, the investment giant added Tempus AI to its portfolio, acquiring approximately 5.41 million shares (worth approx. $189 million).
Google also backs Tempus AI.
This move, alongside SoftBank's increased stake in AI heavyweight Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), underscores the firm's bullish stance on the AI sector.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39693778/tempus-could-gain-share-in-ai-health-care-market-poised-to-grow-by-over-30">Tempus Could Gain Share In AI Health Care Market Poised To Grow By Over 30%</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bullish Signals: Tempus On The Rise</h2>
From a technical perspective, Tempus AI's stock is showing strong bullish signals.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="627" height="456" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16100004/Screenshot-2024-08-16-at-7.29.52-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-499058" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16100004/Screenshot-2024-08-16-at-7.29.52-PM.png 627w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16100004/Screenshot-2024-08-16-at-7.29.52-PM-300x218.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 627px) 100vw, 627px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart crated using Benzinga Pro</a>
With its share price well above key moving averages—the eight-day SMA at $42.02 and the 20-day SMA at $41.51—the stock is positioned for continued upward momentum. 
The lack of data for the 50-day and 200-day SMAs, given the stock's recent market entry, doesn't detract from the overall positive sentiment.
Investors are clearly responding to Tempus AI's potential, especially with the backing of heavyweights like Google and SoftBank. 
As the company continues to innovate and expand its AI-driven healthcare solutions, its stock could remain a hot ticket on the Nasdaq, appealing to those looking to capitalize on the AI revolution. 
The big question now is whether Tempus AI can sustain this momentum and continue to break new ground in the fast-evolving tech landscape.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39697040/tempus-ai-has-massive-market-opportunity-for-this-healthcare-technology-bullish-ana">Tempus AI Has Massive Market Opportunity For This Healthcare Technology, Bullish Analyst Says</a></li>
</ul>

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Technicals

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GOOGL

Tempus AI Soars To New Highs, Investments From Google And SoftBank Boost Bullish Sentiment

In a bid to challenge NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)&#8217;s AI dominance, Asian startups are developing more energy-efficient and cost-effective chips for specific artificial intelligence applications.
What Happened: Asian startups are challenging Nvidia&#8217;s AI dominance by developing more energy-efficient and cost-effective chips for specific AI applications. These startups are targeting the gap in the market left by Nvidia&#8217;s high energy consumption and bulky design, <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-Spotlight/Nvidia-vs.-the-startups-AI-chip-challengers-chase-efficiency">reported</a> Nikkei Asia on Friday.
These startups are focusing on two types of AI chips: &#8220;inference&#8221; chips, used to operate existing AI models, and &#8220;training&#8221; chips, high-powered data-processing components used to develop new AI models. 
While Nvidia&#8217;s GPUs continue to dominate the AI landscape, the startups believe that their GPUs&#8217; high energy consumption and bulky design leave a gap in the market that they can fill.
These startups believe that Nvidia&#8217;s GPUs, while powerful, are too energy-intensive and expensive for many applications. Preferred Networks (PFN) CEO Toru Nishikawa stated, &#8220;No one has come up with the perfect chip architecture for inference.&#8221; PFN is developing chips that aim to be more efficient and less costly than Nvidia&#8217;s offerings.
Nvidia&#8217;s GPUs are primarily used for training AI models, but their high cost and energy consumption make them impractical for devices like laptops and wearables. Analysts, including Kazuhiro Sugiyama from Omdia, believe that the demand for on-device AI will rise, encouraging new entrants to the market.
Startups such as Edgecortix, led by Sakyasingha Dasgupta, are focusing on solving issues like the &#8220;memory wall&#8221; problem to create more streamlined and energy-efficient AI chips. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to cater to the growing demand for AI in industrial applications and robotics, particularly in Asia, according to the report.
&#8220;Nvidia&#8217;s GPU is mainly suited for training, but we are seeing more newcomers developing chips which can target both training and inference,&#8221; Sugiyama said.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40385244/peter-schiff-slams-july-cpi-figure-as-fraud-economist-explains-the-low-number-with-used-car-sales-nu?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Schiff Slams July CPI Figure As &#8216;Fraud,&#8217; Economist Explains The Low Number With Used Car Sales Numbers: Data Doesn&#8217;t Support A Rate Cut</a>
Other companies entering the market include U.S.-based SambaNova Systems, backed by SoftBank Group&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) Vision Fund; Tenstorrent, founded by a former Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) engineer; and the British company Graphcore, recently acquired by SoftBank. 
Big tech companies like Alphabet Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) Google, Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), and Amazon.com Inc.s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Amazon Web Services are also joining in, along with Nvidia&#8217;s rival Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>).
Why It Matters: The competition between Nvidia and emerging Asian startups is heating up as the AI chip market continues to expand. Recently, Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, highlighted Nvidia as a major player in the AI sector, noting that large tech companies are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40409247/former-google-ceo-eric-schmidt-highlights-nvidia-as-major-ai-player-in-now-deleted-video-thats-not-a">planning significant investments</a> in Nvidia-based AI data centers, potentially costing up to $300 billion. 
Meanwhile, SoftBank has faced setbacks in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40400105/whats-going-on-with-nvidia-stock-on-thursday">its efforts to rival</a> Nvidia with its own AI chip production. Negotiations with Intel reportedly fell through due to Intel&#8217;s inability to meet production demands, leading SoftBank to turn to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), a key Nvidia supplier.
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Image Via Shutterstock 
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

Equities

Global

Markets

GOOG

Nvidia AI Dominance Challenged By Asian Startups Betting On Energy-Efficient And Cost-Effective Silicon — 'Inference' And 'Training' Chips Emerge As Key Focus

Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) stock is trading higher Thursday amid reports indicating a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40387488/masayoshi-sons-plans-to-rival-nvidia-with-softbanks-own-ai-chip-production-hit-a-roadblock-as-intel" rel="noreferrer noopener">fallout in discussions</a> between SoftBank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) and Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) over an artificial intelligence (AI) chip production.
Reportedly, Arm Holdings Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) parent SoftBank is turning to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40367565/whats-going-on-with-taiwan-semiconductor-stock-on-wednesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">key Nvidia supplier</a>.
Intel failed to meet SoftBank&#8217;s demands for volume and speed, the Financial Times <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ft.com/content/6b7fd8a1-7f9c-427b-8467-f911f5f0d520" rel="noreferrer noopener">cited</a> familiar sources.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40347392/apple-intel-and-amd-lead-charge-in-ai-capable-pc-market-surge-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple, Intel, And AMD Lead Charge In AI-Capable PC Market Surge: Report</a>
Intel&#8217;s financial struggles, including an April reported $7 billion operating loss in its manufacturing business and subsequent layoffs, likely compounded the difficulties in securing a deal.
While SoftBank&#8217;s pivot to Taiwan Semiconductor could still face hurdles due to the latter&#8217;s high demand from existing customers, the Japanese group remains committed to advancing its AI chip ambitions.
The overall cost of the project could run into tens of billions of dollars, with SoftBank reportedly seeking additional partners like Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google and Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) to provide the necessary expertise and resources.
Nvidia&#8217;s stock has seen a volatile ride. Its selloff makes its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40366085/nvidias-rebound-rally-adds-billions-to-market-value-analysts-eye-ai-growth-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">valuation more attractive</a> as the AI frenzy is in no mood to slow down. Nvidia trades at a forward price-to-earnings multiple of 45.05x after losing over 5% in the last 30 days.
Nvidia stock is up over 176% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOO#NYSE">VOO</a>) and SPDR S&amp;P 500 (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>).
Price Action: NVDA shares were trading higher by 3.45% to $122.16 at the last check Thursday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by NP27 on Shutterstock

What's Going On With Nvidia Stock On Thursday?

Amid the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/08/40153013/rich-dad-poor-dad-author-robert-kiyosaki-sees-market-crashes-as-opportunity-to-get-richer-">global market downturn</a> and a significant drop in its stock, Japanese investment behemoth, SoftBank Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>), has reaffirmed its commitment to artificial intelligence.
What Happened: On Wednesday, SoftBank CFO, Yoshimitsu Goto, expressed the company&#8217;s steadfast belief in the transformative potential of AI, <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/SoftBank2/SoftBank-restates-faith-in-AI-amid-global-market-anxiety">reported</a> Nikkei Asia.
&#8220;We believe in AI, and believe it can change people&#8217;s lives,&#8221; Goto, said in a briefing following the announcement of Masayoshi Son-led <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/08/40213337/masayoshi-sons-softbank-announces-3-4b-share-buyback-as-vision-fund-tech-arm-yields-investment-gains">SoftBank&#8217;s earnings for the April-June</a> quarter.
Despite the market&#8217;s &#8220;high volatility,&#8221; he assured that SoftBank&#8217;s financial status remains &#8220;robust and stable.&#8221;
&#8220;Of course, the market is tough,&#8221; he stated, adding, &#8220;but our financial status is robust and stable. &#8230; There will be no change to our financial strategy for fiscal 2024.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40183808/palantir-reports-83-surge-in-commercial-customers-in-us-thanks-to-boot-camps-plans-to-continue-l?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palantir Reports 83% Surge In Commercial Customers In US Thanks To Boot Camps, Plans To Continue Leveraging The Program To Attract New Customers</a>
SoftBank&#8217;s first-quarter losses were significantly lower than the same period last year, thanks to a weak yen and increased earnings <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/options/24/08/40198755/arm-holdingss-options-frenzy-what-you-need-to-know">from chip designer</a> ARM Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) a company in which SoftBank holds a significant stake. 
Regarding future investments, Goto acknowledged the need for caution due to market volatility. However, he also noted that the current lower stock prices present a good investment opportunity.
SoftBank also announced a share buyback of 500 billion yen ($3.4 billion) over the next year, motivated in part by the company&#8217;s record-low share price on Monday.
Why It Matters: Goto&#8217;s optimistic remarks follow SoftBank Group&#8217;s largest single-day stock price drop since its 1998 listing. This occurred on Monday as Japan&#8217;s benchmark Nikkei Stock Average experienced its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40152271/mohamed-el-erian-grant-cardone-and-matt-weller-warn-of-deepening-global-market-selloff-as-yen-ri">worst daily sell-off in history</a>.
U.S. stocks took a downturn on Wednesday, with an initial rally fizzling out, though the decline wasn&#8217;t as drastic as the recent turbulent swings seen in global markets.
The S&amp;P 500 fell by 0.8% after an early surge of 1.7% lost momentum. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.6%, and the Nasdaq composite decreased by 1%.
The market&#8217;s decline was influenced by Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), a major player on Wall Street, which shifted from a 4.4% morning gain to a 5.1% loss, heavily weighing down the S&amp;P 500. 
At the time of writing, Nvidia stocks were down 1.31% at $97.65, during the after-hours session.
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</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Masayoshi Son-Led SoftBank Firm On AI Investment Amid Market Turmoil: 'There Will Be No Change To Our Financial Strategy For Fiscal 2024'

The Japanese stock market significantly recovered on Tuesday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40152271/mohamed-el-erian-grant-cardone-and-matt-weller-warn-of-deepening-global-market-selloff-as-yen-ri">following a historic plunge</a>, with other Asia-Pacific markets also showing signs of improvement.
What Happened: The Nikkei 225 and the broad-based Topix in Japan experienced a gain of nearly 10%. This recovery comes after the previous session, which saw the largest loss since the 1987 Black Monday crash.
At the time of writing, the Nikkei was up 8.74%, trading at 34,206.99, while the broader Topix rose 8.81%, reaching 2,423.29.
Japan&#8217;s service-sector activity rebounded in July due to strong domestic demand, as revealed by a survey on Monday. The final au Jibun Bank Service Purchasing Managers&#8217; Index (PMI) increased to 53.7 last month, up from 49.4 in June, which marked the first contraction in 21 months. Japan&#8217;s jobless rate decreased to 2.5% in June from the previous month.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40160572/donald-trump-blames-kamala-harris-for-global-market-crash-says-were-heading-towards-world-war-iii?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Donald Trump Blames Kamala Harris For Global Market Crash, Says &#8216;We Are Heading To World War III&#8217;</a>
Additionally, real wages grew by 1.1% in June, marking the first increase in 27 months following a revised 1.3% decline in May, according to data from the labor ministry released on Tuesday, Reuters reported.
The yen also weakened by over 1% against the U.S. dollar. This rebound was seen across various sectors, with Japan&#8217;s heavyweight trading houses witnessing a rise of over 8%. Marubeni (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MARUY#OTC">MARUY</a>) saw a surge of over 14%, while SoftBank Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) jumped over 11%.
Oil prices also saw an uptick, with Brent crude rising by 1.65% to $77.56 per barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude increasing by 1.86% to $74.30.
S&amp;P 500 Futures climbed 1.40% to 5,288.50 points, while Nasdaq 100 Futures advanced 1.88% to 18,351.50 points. Meanwhile, Dow Jones Futures increased 0.87% to 39,187 points on Monday, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
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Image Via Midjourney
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

MARUY

Japan Markets, US Futures Recover After Historic Plunge, Supported Amid Strong Service Sector And Employment Data From Tokyo

ARM Holdings Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) shares are trading higher after Morgan Stanley analyst Lee Simpson upgraded the stock from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ARM/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Equal-Weight to Overweight</a> and raised its price target from $107 to $190.
The upgrade comes as the broader semiconductor sector has seen a selloff this week following Donald Trump&#8217;s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/07/39857131/ai-chip-stocks-nvidia-amd-taiwan-semi-saw-a-selloff-this-week-whats-going-on" rel="noreferrer noopener">verbal attack against</a> contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) and the U.S.&#8217;s plans to intensify advanced semiconductor sanctions against China.
AI chip stocks led by Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) lost 9% and 18% this week.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39135597/why-is-arm-holdings-stock-trading-higher-on-monday" rel="noreferrer noopener">At the Computex forum</a> in Taipei, Arm CEO Rene Haas said he expects 100 billion Arm devices worldwide to be AI-ready by the end of 2025.
Arm Holdings plans to showcase its AI chip in 2025 and launch it commercially by fall 2025. Parent company Softbank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) aims to invest significantly in data centers using its AI chips and renewable energy.
AMD CFO Jean Hu recently suggested a potential entry into next-generation AI PCs.
Analysts remain optimistic about Arm Holdings, citing strong licensing interest and royalty potential as essential growth factors. They also highlight Arm&#8217;s opportunities in the AI and data center sectors.
Arm Holdings stock rose by 158% over the past 12 months as AI <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39387100/whats-going-on-with-chipmaker-arm-holdings-stock" rel="noreferrer noopener">integrated into smartphones</a>. The ARM (Acorn RISC Machine) architecture powers 99% of the world&#8217;s smartphone CPU cores. Apple, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is one of Arm&#8217;s major customers.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/19120052/newplot-1-9.png" alt="" class="wp-image-446149" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/19120052/newplot-1-9.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/19120052/newplot-1-9-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
Arm&#8217;s clients choose the company over Intel Corp&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) x86 technology primarily for its efficiency and widespread adoption. Arm&#8217;s architecture enables chips to consume less power compared to x86, making it ideal for mobile devices and other power-sensitive applications, CNBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/09/how-arm-gained-chip-dominance-with-apple-nvidia-amazon-and-qualcomm.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> in 2023.
Key clients like Apple, Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google, Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), and Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) leverage Arm&#8217;s technology to build custom silicon tailored to their specific needs.
ARM Holdings has a consensus price target of&nbsp;$112.17 based on the ratings of&nbsp;25 analysts.
ARM Price Action: Arm shares traded higher by 3.47% at $163.83 at the last check on Friday.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons

Upgrades

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

What's Going On With Arm Stock On Friday?

The artificial intelligence company Skild AI has secured a substantial $300 million in Series A funding. This investment round was led by Amazon.com Inc. founder Jeff Bezos and SoftBank Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>), led by Masayoshi Son, among others, and is aimed at developing a &#8220;general-purpose brain&#8221; for AI systems.
What Happened: Skild AI, a spinout from Carnegie Mellon, recently emerged from stealth mode to announce the successful completion of its Series A funding round, the company <a href="https://www.skild.ai/blogs/announcing-our-300m-series-a">announced</a> last week. The company is focused on creating an AI system that can be retrofitted into various machines and robotics devices.
The funding, which was raised at a valuation of $1.5 billion, was led by Lightspeed Venture Partners, Coatue, SoftBank Group, and Bezos through Bezos Expeditions. It also saw participation from Felicis Ventures, Sequoia, Menlo Ventures, General Catalyst, CRV, Amazon, SV Angel, and Carnegie Mellon University.
Skild AI is the latest entrant in the AI space with the ambitious goal of developing an &#8220;artificial general intelligence.&#8221; 
Skild AI&#8217;s long-term objective is to create a modular artificial &#8220;brain&#8221; that can be retrofitted for use in any compatible housing. The company&#8217;s roadmap and partnerships were not disclosed in the Series A funding announcement.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39762636/microsofts-1-5b-investment-under-scrutiny-alibaba-showcases-ai-breakthroughs-in-shanghai-and-more-th?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microsoft&#8217;s $1.5B Investment Under Scrutiny, Alibaba Showcases AI Breakthroughs In Shanghai And More: This Week In Artificial Intelligence</a>
Why It Matters: Bezos&#8217;s involvement in Skild AI comes <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/07/39621460/jeff-bezos-to-sell-5-billion-in-amazon-shares-could-he-be-raising-cash-for-seattle-seahawks-purcha">after he sold $5 billion</a> in Amazon shares earlier this year. This move had sparked speculation about his financial strategies, including a potential purchase of the Seattle Seahawks. Bezos, who stepped down as Amazon&#8217;s CEO in 2021, continues to shape the tech landscape through strategic investments and his role as executive chair.
Meanwhile, SoftBank has been aggressively expanding its AI portfolio. Recently, SoftBank acquired UK chipmaker Graphcore to strengthen its AI capabilities. This acquisition aligns with SoftBank&#8217;s broader strategy to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39743441/after-losing-150b-nvidia-opportunity-masayoshi-sons-softbank-acquires-uk-chipmaker-graphcore-in-">invest in foundational AI technologies</a>, including semiconductors and systems.
Amazon&#8217;s increasing reliance on robotics further underscores the significance of Skild AI&#8217;s mission. The e-commerce giant has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/04/38202793/amazon-grows-to-over-750-000-robots-as-worlds-second-largest-private-employer-replaces-over-100-000">deployed over 750,000 robots</a>, replacing more than 100,000 human jobs. These robots, such as Sequoia and Digit, enhance efficiency and safety, highlighting the growing role of AI in operational processes.
Additionally, the broader AI landscape is witnessing ambitious predictions. Emad Mostaque, co-founder of Stability AI, recently forecasted that China would lead in robot adoption, with Elon Musk echoing that robots will <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39721449/elon-musk-repeats-old-prediction-after-stability-ai-founder-predicts-china-will-be-first-nation-with">eventually outnumber humans</a>. 
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Image Via Shutterstock 
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

Startups

Jeff Bezos And Masayoshi Son's SoftBank Lead $300M Funding Round For Startup Working On Developing 'General Purpose Brain' For AI Systems

As the week comes to a close, the world of artificial intelligence (AI) has seen some significant developments. From eyebrow-raising investments to strategic acquisitions, AI breakthroughs, and stock downgrades, the global AI landscape is buzzing with activity. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories that have shaped the AI world over the week.
Microsoft&#8217;s $1.5B Investment Raises Concerns
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) has come under scrutiny from Republican lawmakers for its $1.5 billion investment in UAE-based AI firm G42, due to the company&#8217;s historical ties to China. The lawmakers have called for an intelligence assessment of the deal from the Biden administration.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39742644/microsofts-1-5b-investment-in-uae-ai-firm-with-china-ties-raises-eyebrows-among-republican-lawmakers">Read the full article here.</a>
SoftBank Acquires UK Chipmaker Graphcore
After missing out on a $150 billion opportunity with Nvidia, SoftBank Group Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>), led by Masayoshi Son, has acquired UK-based chipmaker Graphcore. This acquisition is part of SoftBank&#8217;s multibillion-dollar AI push.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39743441/after-losing-150b-nvidia-opportunity-masayoshi-sons-softbank-acquires-uk-chipmaker-graphcore-in-">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39701513/bill-gates-uses-these-4-hacks-to-go-through-50-books-a-year-but-discloses-his-one-reading-struggle-i?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Uses These 4 Hacks To Go Through 50 Books A Year, But Discloses His One Reading Struggle</a>
Alibaba and SenseTime Showcase AI Breakthroughs
At the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) and SenseTime unveiled significant progress in AI, signaling intense competition in China&#8217;s AI market.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39663974/chinas-ai-leaders-alibaba-and-sensetime-showcase-breakthroughs-at-shanghai-conference">Read the full article here.</a>
Tesla Downgraded by UBS
Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) has been downgraded to &#8220;sell&#8221; from &#8220;neutral&#8221; by UBS Group AG due to concerns over the company&#8217;s AI plans. UBS analysts expressed apprehension that Tesla&#8217;s shares have surged too rapidly on the back of AI optimism.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39745534/tesla-downgraded-to-sell-by-ubs-over-concerns-that-stock-has-rallied-too-much-too-soon-on-ai-ent">Read the full article here.</a>
U.S. Military&#8217;s AI-Equipped &#8216;Hyper Enabled Operator&#8217;
The U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is redefining the future of warfare with its program to create AI-equipped &#8220;hyper-enabled operators&#8221; (HEOs), after abandoning its dream of an &#8220;Iron Man&#8221; suit.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39680867/us-military-abandons-half-century-dream-of-iron-man-suit-in-favor-of-ai-equipped-hyper-enabled-opera">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39722837/top-apple-analyst-says-dont-expect-much-for-iphone-16-this-year-but-tim-cook-led-company-has-a-slew?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Top Apple Analyst Says Don&#8217;t Expect Much For iPhone 16 This Year, But Tim Cook-Led Company Has A Slew Of Tetraprism Camera Upgrades In Pipeline</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

BABA

TSLA

Microsoft's $1.5B Investment Under Scrutiny, Alibaba Showcases AI Breakthroughs In Shanghai And More: This Week In Artificial Intelligence

SoftBank Group Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) led by has announced the acquisition of Graphcore, a UK-based chipmaker, in a significant move to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39517522/after-missing-nvidia-rally-masayoshi-son-is-giving-ai-investment-another-try-softbank-is-reportedly">bolster its artificial intelligence capabilities</a>.
What Happened: SoftBank, led by Masayoshi Son, has acquired Graphcore, a startup focused on AI, founded by UK semiconductor industry veterans in 2016. The acquisition is part of SoftBank&#8217;s multibillion-dollar AI push and will position Graphcore alongside chip designer Arm Holdings PLC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) in SoftBank&#8217;s portfolio, the Financial Times <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/e33bab13-2d64-47f7-b0e2-9ba446296234">reported</a> on Friday.
&#8220;With the advent and the acceleration of AI, what's going to be critical is the foundation layers — not just the models but all the infrastructure around it, including on the semiconductor and systems side,&#8221; said Vikas Parekh, a San Francisco-based SoftBank executive who led the investment.
Despite its technology, Graphcore has struggled to commercialize, generating only $2.7 million in sales and $205 million in pre-tax losses in 2022. The company warned last October that it needed to raise new capital within months.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39721796/cathie-wood-says-nvidia-performance-exceptional-but-forecasts-short-term-indigestion-for-company?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cathie Wood Says Nvidia Performance Exceptional But Forecasts &#8216;Short-Term Indigestion&#8217; For Company&#8217;s Business As Customers Reassess AI Strategies</a>
Neither SoftBank nor Graphcore confirmed the deal&#8217;s value, but the report, which cited sources familiar with the matter disclosed it to be slightly above $600 million, less than the approximately $700 million the company had raised in venture capital.
SoftBank and Graphcore did not immediately respond to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga&#8217;s</a> request for comment.
Why It Matters: This acquisition comes on the heels of SoftBank&#8217;s strategic <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39520492/softbank-bets-big-on-ai-in-healthcare-inks-new-joint-venture-with-tempus-to-transform-cancer-tre">moves in the AI sector</a>. In June, SoftBank announced a joint venture with Tempus AI Inc. to revolutionize healthcare in Japan using AI, investing JPY 15 billion each.
Additionally, SoftBank&#8217;s stock hit a 24-year high in July, driven by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/07/39650084/masayoshi-sons-shift-from-defense-to-offense-worked-as-arm-ai-drive-softbank-stock-to-24-year-high">strategic moves in AI and a strong performance</a> by its chip-design subsidiary, Arm Holdings Plc. This acquisition further cements SoftBank&#8217;s position in the AI sector, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39517522/after-missing-nvidia-rally-masayoshi-son-is-giving-ai-investment-another-try-softbank-is-reportedly">following its investment</a> in Jeff Bezos-backed AI startup Perplexity AI in June.
Despite its recent successes, SoftBank also faced a significant loss of opportunity in the AI sector when it sold all of its NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) shares in 2019, missing out on an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/06/39489510/the-150-billion-opportunity-softbank-lost-by-selling-nvidia-shares-too-soon">opportunity of more than $150 billion</a>.
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</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

After Losing $150B Nvidia Opportunity, Masayoshi Son's SoftBank Acquires UK Chipmaker Graphcore In Major AI Push

In a recent development, Flagship Pioneering, the venture capital firm known for backing Moderna (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) has successfully secured a whopping $3.6 billion in funding.
What Happened: Flagship Pioneering has raised $2.6 billion for its eighth fund and an additional $1 billion for parallel funds. These parallel funds will be invested in specific sectors such as diagnostics or therapeutics. The venture firm is also planning to raise more funds for its eighth fund later this year. The funds are intended to launch a series of new biotech companies that will harness the power of generative artificial intelligence for drug discovery, The Financial Times <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/2e530667-49e0-4c8b-895b-d02c7984a6e4">reported </a>on Wednesday.
Noubar Afeyan, the founder of Flagship, stated that a significant part of the investments from the eighth fund will be directed towards platforms that employ AI in innovative ways for drug development. The firm is considering ideas like using AI to create novel chemical materials for medicines and automating hypothesis generation for scientists.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39657063/trump-gives-unexpected-advice-to-biden-following-disappointing-debate-crooked-joe-biden-should?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Gives Unexpected Advice To Biden Following Disappointing Debate: &#8216;Crooked Joe Biden Should &#8230;&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Flagship&#8217;s successful fundraising signifies a positive trend for venture investment in biotech. This sector has been recovering from a downturn triggered by the end of a pandemic-induced boom and a series of interest rate hikes. Flagship&#8217;s investment strategy is increasingly focusing on biotechs developing individual drugs, with at least a quarter of investments from its last fund deployed through its Pioneering Medicines arm.
In April, the global AI in healthcare market size was<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/partner/health-care/24/04/38428956/ai-in-healthcare-is-expected-to-reach-148-billion-by-2029-heres-how-brand-engagement-network-"> valued at $20.9 billion</a> and is expected to reach $148.4 billion by 2029. This indicates a growing interest in AI-driven healthcare solutions.
Moreover, there is growing investment in healthtech sector. For instance, in June, SoftBank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39520492/softbank-bets-big-on-ai-in-healthcare-inks-new-joint-venture-with-tempus-to-transform-cancer-tre">announced a joint venture</a> with Tempus AI Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>) to enhance precision medicine in Japan using AI. 
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39657905/former-mike-pence-staffer-dismisses-trumps-attempts-to-distance-himself-from-project-2025-prepostero?itm_source=parsely-api"> </a>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39657905/former-mike-pence-staffer-dismisses-trumps-attempts-to-distance-himself-from-project-2025-prepostero?itm_source=parsely-api">Former Mike Pence Staffer Dismisses Trump&#8217;s Attempts To Distance Himself From &#8216;Project 2025&#8217; — &#8216;Preposterous If You Look At The Collaborators&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Pooja-Rajkumari" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pooja Rajkumari</a>

Biotech

Health Care

General

MRNA

Investor That Backed Moderna Raises $3.6B For AI-driven Biotech Ventures

In a bid to expand their businesses, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/telecom">Japanese telecommunications giants</a> Nippon Telegraph and KDDI Corp. are venturing into space. They plan to build high-speed wireless networks in the stratosphere to link the Earth and the moon.
What Happened: NTT, Japan&#8217;s largest telecom carrier, announced on Jun. 3 that it will launch an &#8220;airborne base station&#8221; on a commercial basis by 2026, <a href="https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15294036">reported</a> The Asahi Shimbun. 
This initiative is part of the NTT C89 orbital development program, which includes the installation of a high-altitude platform station (HAPS) &#8211; an unmanned aircraft equipped with a repeater that can communicate directly with smartphones.
Masayoshi Son-led SoftBank Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFBQF#OTC">SFBQF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) is also working on the development and commercialization of a HAPS, along with plans to offer a foreign-affiliated satellite-based telecom service in Japan.
NTT Docomo Inc., a mobile carrier, plans to invest up to $100 million in AALTO HAPS Ltd., an affiliate of Airbus SE, to build the aircraft. This commercialization will mark the world&#8217;s first realization of such an initiative.
KDDI also disclosed its space business strategies in May, intending to establish a telecom network between Earth and the moon by 2028. The company aims to create a high-speed 5G communications environment on the moon by 2030.
"Telecommunications means will be essential when mankind arrives on the moon, although we have no immediate intention of monetizing our initiatives on the lunar surface," explained Hiromichi Matsuda, a KDDI Managing Executive Officer. "We will be extending our support."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/07/39658172/peter-schiff-says-smart-money-is-selling-and-dumb-money-is-buying-it-through-etfs-they-set?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Schiff Says &#8216;Smart Money Is Selling&#8217; And Dumb Money Is Buying It Through ETFs: &#8216;They Set Up Bitcoin</a>
Why It Matters: The Japanese telecom companies&#8217; foray into space comes when the global space industry is experiencing rapid growth. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39395671/weeks-after-elon-musk-launched-it-indonesias-telecom-industry-voices-concerns-over-starlink-services">Indonesia&#8217;s telecom industry</a> has already voiced concerns over the entry of Elon Musk&#8216;s Starlink, calling for a temporary halt to the company&#8217;s services.
An estimate by U.S. financial services giant Morgan Stanley projects the global market for space businesses to reach $1 trillion by 2040, tripling its current size over the next 20 years, according to the report.
Meanwhile, SpaceX has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39633453/spacex-now-has-over-100-starlink-satellites-in-orbit-with-direct-to-cell-capabilities-t-mobile-users">over 100 Starlink satellites in orbit</a> with Direct to Cell capabilities, aiming to provide global access to texting, calling, and internet browsing using standard LTE phones. In March 2023, Finnish telecom major Nokia Oyj planned to send <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/03/31542443/elon-musks-spacex-and-nokia-are-linking-up-because-we-really-need-4g-on-the-moon">4G network equipment to the moon</a> aboard a SpaceX rocket.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39655101/peter-schiff-says-bitcoin-etf-buyers-hodling-amid-king-cryptos-plunge-but-warns-muc?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Schiff Says Bitcoin ETF Buyers &#8216;HODLing&#8217; Amid King Crypto&#8217;s Plunge But Warns &#8216;Much Larger Drop &#8230;May Come As Soon As Next Week&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by Nobuyuki Hayashi on Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

SPACE

KDDIY

NTTYY

SFBQF

Masayoshi Son-Led SoftBank, Other Japanese Telecom Giants Working On Establishing High-Speed Space Telecom Networks In Outer Space

SoftBank Group Corp (OTCPK: SFTBF) (OTCPK: SFTBY) hit a 24-year high of 11,190.00 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/yen">Japanese yen per share</a>. 
This broke the earlier intraday record high of 11,000 yen made on Feb. 15, 2000. SoftBank stock&#8217;s surge is attributable to strategic moves in AI and a strong performance by its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ARM/news">chip-design subsidiary, Arm Holdings Plc</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>).
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Boost from Arm</h2>
The British chip designer Arm, which SoftBank acquired in 2016, has played a pivotal role in this resurgence, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/04/softbank-shares-hit-record-high-after-24-years-on-arm-and-ai-boost.html">reported</a> CNBC.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="http://www.benzinga.com/pro/register/?utm_source=BZprocontent070524&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="632" height="451" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/05122027/Screenshot-2024-07-05-at-9.50.04-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-421828" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/05122027/Screenshot-2024-07-05-at-9.50.04-PM.png 632w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/05122027/Screenshot-2024-07-05-at-9.50.04-PM-300x214.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 632px) 100vw, 632px" /></a></figure>
<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/pro/register/?utm_source=BZprocontent070524&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
Arm&#8217;s stock has surged nearly 124% this year, fueling SoftBank&#8217;s impressive market performance. This spike highlights the growing value of Arm&#8217;s intellectual property, particularly in sectors like automotive and cloud data centers. 
SoftBank's 90% stake in Arm is now a significant asset, contributing heavily to the parent company&#8217;s market cap.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Vision Fund Rebounds</h2>
SoftBank&#8217;s Vision Fund, despite past volatility, has shown signs of recovery. The fund, which faced setbacks from investments in companies like WeWork and various Chinese tech firms, is now posting better financial results. This turnaround is buoyed by the broader recovery in tech stocks and a strategic shift towards AI investments.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39640049/masayoshi-sons-softbank-negotiates-10b-energy-project-funding-with-banks-report">Masayoshi Son&#8217;s SoftBank Negotiates $10B Energy Project Funding With Banks: Report</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Son&#8217;s AI Ambitions</h2>
Masayoshi Son, SoftBank's founder, is betting big on artificial intelligence. After a record $32 billion loss in 2023, Son announced a shift from &#8220;defense&#8221; to &#8220;offense,&#8221; focusing on AI opportunities. His vision includes developing an AI ecosystem that leverages SoftBank's diverse tech investments. This bold move is aimed at positioning SoftBank at the forefront of the AI revolution.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39549728/masayoshi-sons-softbank-to-raise-1-86b-through-bond-issuance-for-ai-investment-and-debt-repayment">Masayoshi Son&#8217;s SoftBank To Raise $1.86B Through Bond Issuance For AI Investment And Debt Repayment</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Strategic Moves</h2>
SoftBank&#8217;s recent inclusion in the Russell 3000 index and a $150 million investment from Coatue to expand its AI infrastructure are further signals of its aggressive growth strategy. Analysts from CLSA and Macquarie highlight SoftBank's foresight in AI investments as a key driver for future value. They also note the current discount in SoftBank's stock price relative to its asset value, suggesting potential for further appreciation.
As SoftBank navigates the tech landscape with strategic investments in AI and a solid performance from Arm, its stock is positioned for continued growth. Investors seem to be buying into the Arm story, if not the broader SoftBank narrative, marking a significant shift in market sentiment. With AI at the helm, SoftBank&#8217;s journey to new peaks appears just beginning.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/06/39204832/elliotts-bold-play-softbanks-ai-dreams-vs-investor-demands">Elliott&#8217;s Bold Play: SoftBank&#8217;s AI Dreams Vs. Investor Demands</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Masayoshi Son's Shift From 'Defense' To 'Offense' Worked As Arm, AI Drive SoftBank Stock To 24-Year High

SoftBank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) has announced a new joint <a target="_blank" href="https://group.softbank/en/news/press/20240627" rel="noreferrer noopener">venture, </a>SB TEMPUS Corp., with Tempus AI Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), aiming to enhance precision medicine in Japan using artificial intelligence.
The agreement was signed in May 2024, and the venture is set to launch in July 2024, with each party investing JPY 15.0 billion.
This collaboration seeks to revolutionize healthcare in Japan by leveraging Tempus&#8217; AI expertise and technology.
Founded in 2015, Tempus uses AI to improve healthcare. The company&#8217;s platform is connected to around 50% of U.S. oncologists and boasts one of the largest libraries of de-identified molecular, clinical, and imaging data.
This initiative aims to make diagnostics more intelligent, supporting healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies in making better-informed decisions.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39477528/softbank-ceo-masayoshi-son-sees-shareholder-support-plunge-for-his-reappointment-after-proxy-advisor" rel="noreferrer noopener">SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son Sees Shareholder Support Plunge For His Reappointment After Proxy Advisor&#8217;s Recommendation: Report</a>
In Japan, current cancer treatments include standard therapies like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The new venture will collect and analyze various data types to propose more personalized treatment plans, reducing side effects and improving medication effectiveness.
SB TEMPUS will offer genetic testing, medical data analysis, and AI-driven treatment proposals, partnering with Japanese medical facilities and companies.
&#8220;By promoting the advancing personalized medicine using AI, I strongly hope to reduce people&#8217;s sorrow and increase the happiness of as many people as possible,&#8221; said Softbank Chairman and CEO, Masayoshi Son.
SoftBank had previously invested $200 million in Tempus during its Series G funding round in April, ahead of Tempus&#8217; listing on the Nasdaq in June. The deal is expected to close in July, pending final conditions, reported Reuters.
Tempus AI disclosed yesterday that it received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for its Tempus ECG-AF device that uses AI to help identify patients who may be <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39502483">at increased risk of atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF). </a>
Price Action: TEM, which closed higher by 10.4% at $27.56 on Wednesday, gained 1.92% at $28.09 premarket at last check Thursday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock

SoftBank Bets Big On AI In Healthcare: Inks New Joint Venture with Tempus To Transform Cancer Treatment In Japan

Masayoshi Son-led SoftBank Group Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) is set to invest in the Amazon.com Inc. founder Jeff Bezos-backed artificial intelligence startup Perplexity AI at a valuation of $3 billion, in a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39405916/jeff-bezos-vision-inspires-perplexity-ai-ceo-as-he-takes-on-google-search-one-thing-ive-done-is">bid to bolster its AI portfolio</a>.
What Happened: SoftBank&#8217;s Vision Fund 2 is planning to invest between $10 million to $20 million in Perplexity AI, a startup that aims to utilize AI to compete with Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) Google search, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-06-27/softbank-to-invest-in-perplexity-in-ai-race-against-google-rivals">reported</a> on Thursday, citing people familiar with the matter.
This investment is part of a larger $250 million funding round, which will triple Perplexity&#8217;s valuation and position it as one of the industry&#8217;s most highly valued companies.
This move underscores SoftBank&#8217;s intention to significantly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39405543/softbanks-masayoshi-son-readies-for-next-big-investment-move-after-setback-from-alibaba-wework-witho">accelerate its AI investment</a>. The company&#8217;s founder, Son, recently outlined an ambitious vision for the future of AI, including the realization of &#8220;artificial super intelligence.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39448955/dogecoin-killer-shiba-inu-falters-here-is-what-these-key-indicators-reveal-about-its-short?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;Dogecoin Killer&#8217; Shiba Inu Falters — Here Is What These Key Indicators Reveal About Its Short-Term Prospects</a>
SoftBank and Perplexity AI did not immediately respond to&nbsp;<a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga</a>'s request for comment.
Why It Matters: This investment comes at a crucial time for SoftBank, as the company has been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39405543/softbanks-masayoshi-son-readies-for-next-big-investment-move-after-setback-from-alibaba-wework-witho">preparing for a significant AI investment</a> following setbacks from its previous investments in companies like Alibaba and WeWork. This move is in line with Son&#8217;s acknowledgment of the potential for success or failure in the AI sector.
Perplexity, which is less than two years old, has already made a name for itself by providing more real-time information than other AI chatbots. 
The startup&#8217;s primary service is search, and it refers to itself as an &#8220;answer engine,&#8221; providing results in text format instead of links. Perplexity has also been involved in some controversy over a product that summarizes news stories and whether the product gives outlets due credit for their work.
Despite the controversy, the investment in Perplexity is a strategic move for SoftBank, which is also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39405543/softbanks-masayoshi-son-readies-for-next-big-investment-move-after-setback-from-alibaba-wework-witho">expected to quicken the pace of activity</a> around AI services. Recently, SoftBank directly invested $200 million into Tempus AI, a startup that analyzes medical data, and plans to set up a joint venture in Japan.
Moreover, SoftBank&#8217;s decision to sell its Nvidia shares in 2019 has been scrutinized, as the shares would be worth over $150 billion today. This <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/06/39489510/the-150-billion-opportunity-softbank-lost-by-selling-nvidia-shares-too-soon">missed opportunity</a> underscores the importance of strategic investments in high-growth sectors like AI.
Son recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39429393/regret-missing-out-on-nvidia-rally-youre-not-alone-as-softbanks-masayoshi-son-laments-157b-lost-">admitted the regrettable sale of Nvidia shares</a> at a recent annual meeting of SoftBank shareholders. He called it &#8220;The fish that got away was big.&#8221; SoftBank held a 4.9% stake in Nvidia at the time, with an investment of $700 million. Although Son multiplied it over four times with a $3.3 billion return, it would have been worth $157 billion now.

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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

After Missing Nvidia Rally, Masayoshi Son Is Giving AI Investment Another Try? SoftBank Is Reportedly Investing In Jeff Bezos-Backed AI Startup That's Taking On Google Search

SoftBank Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) is set to introduce a medical service in Japan that uses artificial intelligence to analyze personal medical data, including genetic information. The service will be launched through a joint venture with U.S. healthcare company Tempus AI Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>). Following the report, Tempus AI Inc.&#8217;s stock surged nearly 3% in pre-market hours trading.
What Happened: The joint venture, capitalized at 30 billion yen ($188 million), will be equally owned by SoftBank Group and Tempus AI. The venture is expected to commence operations as early as July and aims to start providing services within one to two years, <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Artificial-intelligence/SoftBank-Group-to-launch-AI-service-analyzing-medical-data">reported</a> Nikkei on Tuesday.
Tempus AI, through its analytical machine learning platform, enables physicians to make real-time, data-driven decisions to provide personalized care and targeted therapies for patients using the power of AI in healthcare.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/06/39453063/nasdaq-futures-slip-as-nvidia-sell-off-continues-s-p-500-futures-hold-up-analyst-says-valuations-wi?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nasdaq Futures Slip As Nvidia Sell-Off Continues, S&amp;P 500 Futures Hold Up: Analyst Says &#8216;Valuations Will Go Parabolic And It Will Be A Perfect Time To Sell&#8217;</a>
SoftBank and Tempus AI did not immediately respond to&nbsp;<a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga</a>'s request for comment.
Why It Matters: This initiative comes at a crucial time for SoftBank, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. In 2019, SoftBank's Vision Fund <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/06/39489510/the-150-billion-opportunity-softbank-lost-by-selling-nvidia-shares-too-soon">sold all of its shares</a> in Nvidia, missing out on a potential gain of over $150 billion.
Moreover, Masayoshi Son has seen <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39477528/softbank-ceo-masayoshi-son-sees-shareholder-support-plunge-for-his-reappointment-after-proxy-advisor">a notable drop in shareholder support</a> for his reappointment as CEO, falling from 95.93% to 79.22% in a year, following a recommendation by proxy advisor Institutional Shareholder Services.
In addition, activist investor Elliott Investment Management has taken a $2 billion stake in SoftBank and is demanding a $15 billion share buyback, reflecting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/06/39204832/elliotts-bold-play-softbanks-ai-dreams-vs-investor-demands">investor concerns over the company&#8217;s strategic direction</a>. 
Finally, the collaboration between SoftBank and Tempus AI aligns with a broader trend of integrating AI into healthcare. For instance, Microsoft-backed OpenAI has partnered with Color Health to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39359502/openai-and-color-health-develop-ai-driven-cancer-care-solutions-report">develop AI-driven cancer care solutions</a>.
Price Action: Tempus AI Inc. closed at $24.96 on Tuesday, experiencing a decrease of 1.38% for the day. In pre-market trading, the stock rose by 2.52%. Since its public debut, Tempus AI Inc. has seen a decline of 37.99%, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

This AI Stock Surges Nearly 3% Premarket As SoftBank Reportedly Plans To Launch AI-Powered Medical Service In Japan

SoftBank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) CEO Masayoshi Son has reportedly seen a significant drop in shareholder support for his reappointment, falling from 95.93% to 79.22% in a year. This follows a recommendation by proxy advisor Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) against his reappointment.
What Happened: The decline in support for Son&#8217;s reappointment was driven by the ISS&#8217; recommendation, which cited SoftBank&#8217;s average return on equity of less than 5% over the past five years, Reuters reported. This was revealed in a stock market filing on Tuesday.
Notably, the reappointment of external director Kenneth Siegel also faced a decrease in shareholder support, dropping to 68.46% from 66.9% last year.
SoftBank has yet to respond to queries sent by Benzinga.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39446399/donald-trump-vows-to-end-joe-bidens-war-on-crypto-shiba-inus-burn-rate-surges-trumpcoin-my?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Donald Trump Vows To End &#8216;Joe Biden&#8217;s War On Crypto,&#8217; Shiba Inu&#8217;s Burn Rate Surges, TrumpCoin Mystery And</a>
Why It Matters: The drop in support for Son&#8217;s reappointment comes at a time when activist investor<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/06/39204832/elliotts-bold-play-softbanks-ai-dreams-vs-investor-demands"> Elliott Investment Management</a> has taken a bold stance against SoftBank. Elliott has demanded a $15 billion share buyback, questioning whether Son has learned from past mistakes at the Vision Fund.
Despite this, SoftBank&#8217;s stock has surged nearly 50% this year, driven by the impressive rally of Arm Holdings Plc, the chip designer it controls, whose shares have more than tripled since going public last year.
Son, however, remains undeterred and is preparing for a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39405543/softbanks-masayoshi-son-readies-for-next-big-investment-move-after-setback-from-alibaba-wework-witho">significant AI investment</a>, emphasizing that SoftBank has no choice but to take the risk. Son had recently expressed regret over the&nbsp;decision to sell <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39429393/regret-missing-out-on-nvidia-rally-youre-not-alone-as-softbanks-masayoshi-son-laments-157b-lost-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the company's stake</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;NVIDIA Corp and missing out on a potential $157 billion windfall.
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Photo by Nobuyuki Hayashi on Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Pooja-Rajkumari" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pooja Rajkumari</a>

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