Microsoft Pledges $10B AI Investment in Japan

Microsoft has announced a four-year, $10 billion investment package in Japan, partnering with Sakura Internet and SoftBank to develop cloud and AI infrastructure. The deal includes expanding data centers, cybersecurity partnerships, and training one million AI engineers by 2029. The investment signals Microsoft's push to compete with Amazon and Alphabet in Japan's growing AI market. Sakura Internet shares surged 20% on the news, while SoftBank rose 1.6%. Microsoft President Brad Smith cited clear market demand following a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.