Intelligence Squared Lionel Barber and Zanny Minton Beddoes on the Story of the World’s Wildest Investor, Part Two
Nov 1, 2024
Lionel Barber, former Financial Times editor and author of "Gambling Man," joins Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, to explore the wild journey of Masayoshi Son, the tech titan behind SoftBank. They discuss Son's audacious investments, including Alibaba, and his pivotal role in Silicon Valley's boom. The conversation navigates Son's unique strategies, his ambition to build an empire, and his compelling relationship with Steve Jobs, illuminating the intersection of technology and investment in a rapidly changing world.
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Son's Self-Comparison
- Masayoshi Son compared himself to historical figures like Napoleon, Genghis Khan, and Emperor Chin.
- This comparison came after a meeting with Elliott Capital, who referenced business leaders like Warren Buffett.
Son's Extravagant Lifestyle
- Despite claiming a modest public profile, Son's spending habits reveal a different story.
- His extravagant house in Tokyo, complete with a golf course and pool, showcases his grandiosity.
Keys to Son's Success
- Masayoshi Son's success can be attributed to a combination of factors.
- These include the era of cheap money, risk-taking, and his long-term vision.
