SoftBank and OpenAI have recently announced a new joint venture in Japan called “Crystal Intelligence,” which will focus on selling enterprise AI tools. This partnership, with both companies holding a 50-50 stake, seems like a typical international expansion deal at first glance. However, the fact that SoftBank is a major investor in OpenAI has sparked some skepticism in the industry.
The deal between SoftBank and OpenAI has raised questions about whether these high-profile AI investments are truly creating economic value or simply moving money around in circles. On a recent episode of JS’s Equity podcast, hosts Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and AI editor Russell Brandom delved into the implications of this partnership and what it signifies for the sustainability of AI’s current investment model.
The podcast hosts discussed the potential motives behind the collaboration between SoftBank and OpenAI and explored whether this partnership is truly beneficial for the advancement of AI technology. With the AI industry booming and attracting massive investments, there is growing concern about the actual impact of these deals on the industry as a whole.
Listeners can tune in to the Equity podcast on platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Spotify to gain insights into the latest developments in the world of AI investments. Additionally, followers can stay updated on Equity’s latest updates by following them on Twitter and Threads at @EquityPod.
In conclusion, the joint venture between SoftBank and OpenAI has sparked discussions about the true value of AI investments and the sustainability of the current investment model. As the AI industry continues to evolve, it is essential for stakeholders to critically evaluate the impact of these partnerships on the industry’s growth and development.

