OpenAI Eyes Massive IPO Targeting $1 Trillion Valuation
OpenAI, the artificial intelligence powerhouse behind ChatGPT, is laying the groundwork for a historic initial public offering. The company aims for a $1 trillion valuation, positioning itself among tech giants like Apple and Microsoft. CEO Sam Altman, despite holding no equity, views the IPO as a strategic move to secure funding for $1.4 trillion in AI development over the next five years.
The timeline targets late 2026 to 2027, with plans to raise at least $60 billion. OpenAI's current $500 billion valuation and $8.6 billion annualized revenue underscore its rapid growth since its 2015 inception as a nonprofit. CFO Sarah Friar cites 2027 as the probable launch window, though favorable market conditions could accelerate the process.
While publicly emphasizing its mission to build socially beneficial AI, OpenAI is privately advancing its corporate infrastructure. The potential IPO represents a watershed moment for AI commercialization, mirroring the transformative impact of major tech listings in recent decades.