SoftBank stock split: what it means for traders

SoftBank Group Corp. (9984) has approved a 4-for-1 stock split effective 1 January 2026. The decision follows a sharp rise in its share price during 2025 and adds to its long history of share splits dating back to the mid-1990s. While the split will increase the number of shares in circulation and reduce the price per share, it won’t change the company’s market capitalisation or the economic exposure of existing shareholders.

This article outlines how stock splits work, summarises the details of SoftBank’s latest action, reviews its historical approach, and highlights its recent financial performance and upcoming developments.

SoftBank live share price

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

What is a stock split?

A stock split is a corporate action that increases the number of a company’s shares at a predefined ratio while reducing the price per share. Although the number of shares changes, the total value of an investor’s holding remains the same because the company’s market capitalisation – the combined value of all shares – is unaffected.

In a 4-for-1 split, each existing share becomes four new shares. The share price adjusts so that the total value of those four shares equals the value of the pre-split share.

Companies may undertake stock splits to make shares appear more accessible to a wider range of market participants, particularly retail investors. A lower per-share price can also support smaller order sizes, which may influence liquidity. However, a split doesn’t change a company’s underlying financial performance, valuation or risk profile.

SoftBank’s 4-for-1 stock split

SoftBank Group’s board has approved a 4-for-1 split of its common shares, effective 1 January 2026. The record date is set for the end of December 2025 (around 30–31 December), after which the split will be applied.

The decision follows a period of strong price appreciation. On 10 November 2025, SoftBank’s shares reached approximately ¥22,255, about four times higher than their April 2025 low. Because the company trades in units of 100 shares, the rally pushed the minimum investment amount to more than ¥2,225,500 – a high entry point for many retail investors.

Once the split takes effect, each existing share will convert into four new shares. The per-share price will be adjusted accordingly, reducing the minimum trading unit and widening access. SoftBank notes that the split won’t affect the total value of its common stock on its consolidated financial statements.

Why did SoftBank conduct a share split?

SoftBank states that the main objective is to lower the investment amount required to purchase a standard trading unit, making its shares more accessible. The 2025 rally significantly increased the cost of a single trading unit, limiting participation for some retail investors.

Adjusting the share structure allows for smaller transaction sizes without altering valuation or ownership proportions. While accessibility may influence liquidity, a stock split isn’t an indicator of operational performance or strategic direction.

Will SoftBank split again in 2026?

As at 15 December 2025, SoftBank has announced only one stock split for 2026: the 4-for-1 split effective 1 January. There are no statements or regulatory filings indicating additional splits later in the year.

Any further split would require a new board resolution and public disclosure. No such announcements appear in SoftBank’s investor-relations materials or major financial news sources up to this date.

SoftBank stock split history

SoftBank has conducted multiple stock splits since the mid-1990s, significantly expanding its total outstanding shares over time. Historic ratios include:

SoftBank’s investor-relations data shows that a holding of 100 shares at IPO would now equate to several thousand shares, reflecting the company’s long-running use of splits. External datasets generally align, though presentation formats may differ.

Latest earnings: SoftBank FY2025 results

SoftBank reported strong earnings momentum for the six months ended 30 September 2025, supported by fair-value gains in technology-focused investments and improved performance across the group.

• Net income reached approximately ¥2.9trn, up around 191% year-on-year.
• Gains were driven by investment-related revaluations, including exposures linked to OpenAI and Vision Fund portfolio companies.
• Net sales rose to roughly ¥3.74trn, an increase of about 7.7% year-on-year.
• Investment gains, operating income and pre-tax income reached record levels for a half-year period.

Outlook and upcoming developments

SoftBank’s published materials highlight its focus on monetising technology and AI-related assets, managing leverage and optimising capital allocation. Structural measures – such as the 2026 stock split and selective share buybacks when appropriate – may support shareholder engagement and liquidity.

Future portfolio adjustments, investment priorities or corporate actions will depend on SoftBank’s internal assessments and broader market conditions. This article doesn’t include analyst projections or external forecasts.

Summary

• SoftBank has approved a 4-for-1 stock split effective 1 January 2026.

• The split follows a strong 2025 price rally, with shares reaching around ¥22,255 in November.

• The aim is to reduce the minimum investment unit and broaden accessibility.

• SoftBank has conducted numerous stock splits since 1995.

• FY2025 results highlight strong income growth and record performance across key business segments.

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