SoftBank’s Vision for AI and the Future of Labor
Headline: AI to Reach 20% of Global GDP by 2040, Says SoftBank Founder
Key Insights:
- Investment Projection: Masayoshi Son, founder of SoftBank Group, forecasts that global AI infrastructure will require $5 trillion in annual investment by 2040.
- Shift in Workforce: The rise of AI technologies, including data centers, power supplies, and humanoid robots, indicates a significant transition away from traditional human-centered work.
Event Highlight:
- Masayoshi Son shared these insights during his presentation at SoftBank World 2026 in Tokyo on July 14, emphasizing the transformative power of AI in shaping the future economy.

Caption: Masayoshi Son presents at SoftBank World 2026 in Tokyo on July 14. (Photo by Hikaru Yagi)
This vision underscores the significant role AI is expected to play in the labor market and the necessary infrastructural investments to support this transformation.