SoftBank beefs up US lobbying power to support Vision Fund bets

Japanese conglomerate focusing efforts on autonomous vehicles, fintech and export controls

20190724 USA-TRUMP/

SoftBank's Masayoshi Son has been keen to build a rapport with U.S. President Donald Trump. © Reuters

YIFAN YU, Nikkei staff writer

PALO ALTO, U.S.-- SoftBank Group is beefing up its lobbying operations in Washington as its $100 billion Vision Fund makes huge bets in emerging U.S. tech sectors, including autonomous driving and fintech.

SoftBank registered four lobbyists in June, government filings show, including a former national security adviser to ex-Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and the director of legislative affairs in the office of former Vice President Joe Biden.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.