OpenAI investors have proposed a new funding round valuing the company at $1.2 trillion, though the company says no formal discussions are underway. OpenAI, which raised $122 billion in March, is preparing for an expected IPO in 2027, though CEO Sam Altman recently suggested timing concerns due to ongoing AI safety issues.
OpenAI is in early talks with investors about a funding round valuing the company at over $1.2 trillion, ahead of a planned initial public offering that CEO Sam Altman says won't happen until 2027. The talks were initiated by investors and would allow existing backers to increase their stake before going public, positioning OpenAI ahead of rival Anthropic, which raised funds at a $965 billion valuation.
OpenAI CFO Sarah Friar told CNBC that despite ongoing AI safety concerns, the company won't slow development unnecessarily and will make investment decisions based on strong ROI while remaining pragmatic about real risks. Friar's comments come as industry leaders debate the pace of AI development following warnings about potential dangers, though she emphasized OpenAI will listen to researchers and adjust if needed.