SoftBank Group issues Japanese retail bonds at a record low rate of 4.97%.

SoftBank Group issues a yen-denominated hybrid bond targeting retail investors, with an initial 5-year coupon rate of 4.97%, the highest rate among similar bonds issued by the company. The 418 billion yen bond issued this time is a 35-year subordinated bond that can be redeemed after 5 years. The company stated that the funds raised will be used in part to refinance bonds due in June 2026. The bond's coupon rate is the highest among yen retail bonds issued by Japanese companies. SoftBank Group has been accelerating its investments in the field of artificial intelligence, sparking concerns about potential deterioration in liquidity and financial flexibility, as well as risks of ratings downgrade.