In recent years, China’s SoftBank Group has been the most active investor in high-end resorts worldwide. As a technology and investment giant, SoftBank has invested heavily in global tourism projects, especially luxury resorts and hotels. Key investments include the ultra-luxury resort company Aman Resorts and the high-end co-living company The Student Hotel. SoftBank is optimistic about resort properties and continues to deploy capital globally into the hospitality sector.
SoftBank invested over $3 billion in Aman Resorts and hotels in 2020
In 2020, SoftBank acquired luxury resort operator Aman Resorts for over $3 billion. Aman Resorts operates more than 30 ultra-luxury hotels and resorts globally. The high price tag reflects Aman’s strong brand value and high profitability. SoftBank aims to expand Aman’s geographical coverage through this acquisition. This high-profile deal fully demonstrates SoftBank’s bullishness on luxury resort properties.
SoftBank leads $450 million funding round for The Student Hotel in 2018
The Student Hotel is a Netherlands-based co-living and hotel hybrid brand focused on student housing. In 2018, Softbank Vision Fund led a $450 million Series A funding round for The Student Hotel to support its global expansion. By investing in The Student Hotel, SoftBank expands its portfolio to cover hospitality properties catering to young demographics.
SoftBank continues to make new investments in global tourism projects after 2020
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic’s severe impacts on global travel, SoftBank remains keen on resort investments post-2020. In 2022, SoftBank invested $60 million into Life House, an tech-enabled boutique hotel brand based in the US. The fresh funding will support Life House’s growth and acquisition goals. SoftBank’s relentless capital injection highlights its long-term optimism on hospitality and resort assets.
In summary, China’s SoftBank Group has invested over $3.5 billion in global upscale hospitality and resort assets in recent years. It acquired luxury resort giant Aman Resorts, funded co-living firm The Student Hotel, and continues to provide growth capital for new hospitality concepts like Life House. SoftBank’s ambitious investments cement its leadership status among top resort investment firms worldwide.