OpenAI Nears Completion Of $40B Fundraising Led By SoftBank

by News Editor

March 28, 2025

OpenAI, the trailblazer in the AI domain, is closing in on an impressive $40 billion funding milestone, spearheaded by Japan’s tech giant SoftBank. OpenAI is not just stopping there, as other investors are queuing to join this mega-round. Among the interested parties are Magnetar Capital, proposing an impressive $1 billion, along with Coatue Management, Founders Fund, and Altimeter Capital Management.

SoftBank’s contributions could be broken down into two tranches: an initial $7.5 billion, along with $2.5 billion from a group of syndicated investors. Later this year, SoftBank plans to add another $22.5 billion, with an extra $7.5 billion set to be syndicated. With this surge in funding, OpenAI’s valuation is set to skyrocket to a staggering $300 billion, compared to its previous $157 billion valuation secured in October 2024 with a $6.6 billion round led by Thrive Capital.

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This financial leap signifies an evolving commitment to AI innovation, with OpenAI poised to potentially play a pivotal role in the tech world.

Explore how shifts like these align with broader industry trends in our piece on Europe’s Fintech Unicorns: Who’s Making Money?

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Alshaya Group Secures Exclusive Starbucks Operating Rights In Greece And Cyprus

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 9, 2026

Alshaya Group has acquired the operating rights for 48 Starbucks stores in Greece and Cyprus, transferring management from the Marinopoulos family after a 24-year partnership. The deal expands Alshaya’s presence as a licensed operator of the brand in the region.

Strategic Expansion And Market Consolidation

Under this new arrangement, Alshaya will oversee 30 stores in Greece through its newly established entity, Alshaya Hellas SMSA, and 18 outlets in Cyprus under Murgab Cyprus Ltd. Employing approximately 500 individuals across both markets, the transition is expected to enhance operational efficiencies and accelerate growth within the region.

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Leadership Transition And Continued Partnerships

A 24-year partnership with the Marinopoulos family concludes with this transaction, marking the end of Starbucks’ initial expansion phase in both markets. Yiannis Marinopoulos, former chief executive, is expected to return to the family business. Starbucks said it will continue working with Alshaya as its regional licensed partner.

Vision For A Dynamic Future

Saleh Alshaya, President of Starbucks at Alshaya Group, said the company plans to expand its store network and product offering in Greece and Cyprus. Plans include integration of new teams and continued development of the brand’s presence across both markets.

Regional And Global Business Significance

Duncan Moir, President of Starbucks EMEA, said Alshaya will continue expanding the brand’s presence in the region as its largest licensed partner. He referred to the company’s existing operations and scale across international markets.

Alshaya opened its first Starbucks store in Kuwait in 1999 and now operates more than 2,000 locations across 13 countries, serving over one million customers daily. The addition of Greece and Cyprus extends its footprint in Europe.

Jacqueline Delpippo, Business Manager for Starbucks Greece and Cyprus at Alshaya Group, will oversee the transition process. The company said operations will continue without disruption during the handover.

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