Sam Altman’s OpenAI is reportedly weighing plans to go public with a valuation that could reach $1 trillion. The move, expected as early as 2026, would represent a watershed moment for artificial intelligence and one of the largest IPOs in corporate history.
The company is considering raising more than $60 billion to bolster its push into new data centers and AI infrastructure. Such funding would enable OpenAI to accelerate development and deployment of advanced AI systems globally.
Altman told employees that an IPO appears to be the “most likely path” to sustain OpenAI’s growth trajectory. Yet the company’s leadership insists that its mission—not market valuation—remains the central focus, highlighting its commitment to building AGI that benefits humanity.
Following a structural overhaul, OpenAI transitioned into a for-profit model, allowing greater flexibility to raise capital while still being governed by its nonprofit board. The reorganization also cemented Microsoft’s 27% ownership stake, aligning it closely with OpenAI’s future success.
Despite record-breaking growth, OpenAI’s losses have been steep—around $7.8 billion in the first half of the year—reflecting the high costs of building AI systems at scale. Investors are watching closely as AI optimism drives valuations to dizzying heights.