SoftBank Group

One of the world's largest technology investors with significant influence over AdTech, AI, and digital media sectors through its Vision Funds

SoftBank Group Corp. is a Tokyo-based multinational conglomerate founded by Masayoshi Son in 1981, best known today as one of the most influential technology investment vehicles in the world. Through its SoftBank Vision Fund 1 and Vision Fund 2, the company has deployed over $140 billion into technology companies spanning artificial intelligence, e-commerce, ride-sharing, fintech, and digital advertising. Its portfolio includes or has included major AdTech and digital media players such as The Trade Desk (early investor), Verizon Media (Yahoo), and numerous AI-driven marketing technology companies, making it a significant force shaping the AdTech landscape. SoftBank's investment thesis centers on the 'Information Revolution,' backing companies it believes will dominate their sectors over a 20-30 year horizon. In the AdTech and digital media space, SoftBank has backed companies involved in programmatic advertising, data analytics, AI-powered targeting, and connected TV. Its Vision Funds operate as the world's largest technology-focused venture and growth equity funds, giving SoftBank unparalleled influence over the trajectory of emerging AdTech platforms and infrastructure. Beyond investments, SoftBank operates direct businesses including SoftBank Corp. (Japanese telecom), Arm Holdings (semiconductor IP, publicly traded), and has stakes in companies like Alibaba. The conglomerate's scale and capital deployment capacity mean that its portfolio decisions can reshape competitive dynamics across the entire digital advertising ecosystem. SoftBank is publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and remains one of the most closely watched technology holding companies in the world.