OpenAI, the firm behind ChatGPT, is preparing to sell stock on the public market. This may value the company at as much as $1 trillion, one of the largest launches in history. Three individuals familiar with the plans informed Reuters that OpenAI could submit documents to government regulators in the second half of 2026. At early-stage discussions, the firm has considered raising $60 billion on the low side and likely higher.
These individuals added that the discussions continue and the plans could shift depending on the performance of the business and the state of the economy. The company’s finance head, Sarah Friar, has mentioned to some individuals that she’s targeting 2027. But some of her advisers believe it might happen earlier, perhaps towards the end of 2026. An OpenAI representative explained that they’re not presently thinking about this and haven’t announced a deadline. But preparing indicates the company is ready to access public markets now that a massive overhaul is complete.
Making Money But Losing It Too
The firm is planning to generate around $20 billion in revenue by the close of this year. But it’s also making losses, according to individuals close to matters. On Tuesday, CEO Sam Altman discussed potentially listing during a livestream. “I think it’s fair to say it is the most likely path for us, given the capital needs that we’ll have,” he stated. Going public would assist in accessing money more easily and allow them to acquire other companies with stock. This would assist in funding Altman’s intentions to spend trillions on AI systems.
OpenAI began as a nonprofit in 2015. A couple of years later, they altered the way things were done so that the nonprofit would oversee the money-making part. The idea was to ensure OpenAI developed AI technology responsibly rather than pursuing profits like standard businesses.
Big Changes Let Them Sell Shares
This week OpenAI transformed itself again. A non-profit organisation named the OpenAI Foundation still holds the reins, but now the non-profit is a 26% owner of OpenAI Group and has the option to acquire more shares if the company performs well. The non-profit therefore becomes a significant owner of OpenAI’s financial success. It’ll be wonderful for investors such as SoftBank, Thrive Capital and MGX of Abu Dhabi if this takes off. Microsoft is among the largest supporters and now controls around 27% after investing $13 billion.
All while artificial intelligence is driving stock markets wild. Earlier this year, AI cloud firm CoreWeave was listed for $23 billion and has almost tripled. On Wednesday, Nvidia became the first firm ever to be worth a massive $5 trillion due to the AI boom.
News At Glance
- OpenAI is preparing for a public market debut worth as much as $1 trillion
- Could file documents in the second half of 2026 for a public offering
- Making $20 billion annually but also losing money
- Microsoft holds 27% after investing $13 billion
- The CEO explains that going public is the likeliest route because they require plenty of cash
FAQs
Q: When will OpenAI sell shares to ordinary people
A: Perhaps late 2026 or 2027. The firm is considering filing documents in the second half of 2026. Some advisors believe late 2026 while others believe 2027.
Q: How valuable is OpenAI today?
A: OpenAI recently reorganised at $500 billion. The public debut can value it up to $1 trillion, one of the largest ever.
Q: Why does OpenAI want to do so?
A: CEO Sam Altman says they require tons of money. Going public and selling shares makes it simpler to raise money and acquire other companies to create AI systems.
Q: Who owns OpenAI today?
A: The OpenAI Foundation nonprofit controls 26%. Microsoft has 27% after investing $13 billion. SoftBank, Thrive Capital and Abu Dhabi’s MGX are other investors.
Q: Is OpenAI profitable?
A: Revenue will reach $20 billion annually by the end of 2025, but the business is losing money simultaneously.
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