SoftBank CEO on the Amazon Deal That Got Away

The transcript discusses a past attempt to invest in Amazon before its IPO. The speaker reflects on negotiations with Jeff Bezos, highlighting disagreements on valuation. Despite recognizing Bezos' vision and passion, the speaker's executive team could not agree to the terms. In hindsight, the speaker acknowledges the missed opportunity and the mistake of not agreeing to Bezos' valuation.

What was the main reason the speaker and Jeff Bezos couldn't finalize the deal?

• The speaker didn't see potential in Amazon.

• There was a disagreement on the company's valuation.

• Jeff Bezos was not interested in selling.

• The speaker's company was not ready to invest.

What was the internal issue that prevented the speaker from investing in Amazon?

• Amazon's declining market

• Executive disagreement

• Legal issues

• Lack of funds

At the time of the potential investment, what was Amazon's financial status?

• Profitable and well-established

• Losing money and a startup

• Breaking even

• A leading market player

What qualities of Amazon did the speaker admire despite not investing?

• Its high profitability

• Its advanced technology

• Its strong vision and passion

• Its large customer base

In hindsight, what does the speaker regret about the Amazon deal?

• Not negotiating harder

• Not agreeing to Bezos's valuation

• Not consulting more experts

• Not investing in other companies