OpenAI in Talks with Middle Eastern Sovereign Funds for $50B Funding Round
OpenAI is negotiating with Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds to secure approximately $50 billion in new financing, according to a confidential source. While the final figure remains fluid pending formal agreements, the company aims to conclude the round by the end of Q1 2024. CEO Sam Altman recently traveled to the UAE to advance discussions.
The AI pioneer, which ignited global interest in generative AI with ChatGPT's 2022 launch, has become one of technology's fastest-growing enterprises. Its previous $40 billion round led by SoftBank set a private tech funding record, with participation from Microsoft and other institutional investors. An October 2023 share sale valued the company at $500 billion.