OpenAI, the artificial intelligence company behind ChatGPT, is reportedly seeking a valuation of $300 billion in a new funding round led by SoftBank. This ambitious target comes after a significant $6.6 billion funding round in October 2024, which valued the company at $157 billion.
In the October round, Thrive Capital led with a $1.25 billion investment, while SoftBank contributed $500 million. Other notable investors included Microsoft, Nvidia, Tiger Global, Fidelity, Altimeter Capital Management, Khosla Ventures, and MGX.
Following this, OpenAI allowed employees to sell approximately $1.5 billion worth of shares to SoftBank through a tender offer, further strengthening the partnership between the two companies.
SoftBank’s increased investment aligns with CEO Masayoshi Son’s strategy to position the conglomerate at the forefront of the AI industry. The company has been actively investing in AI startups, including a recent move to lead a funding round for robotics startup Skild AI, potentially valuing it at nearly $4 billion.
OpenAI’s rapid growth and substantial funding underscore the escalating interest and competition in the AI sector, as companies vie for leadership in this transformative technology.