Investors have shown significant interest in purchasing shares of OpenAI on the secondary market, valuing the artificial intelligence leader above $100 billion according to data from securities tracking platforms. The high valuation comes as OpenAI is in talks to raise funding in a round that could see their official valuation surpass this record number.
Multiple companies that facilitate the buying and selling of shares from existing investors, rather than directly from the company, have seen heavy bidding that points to a valuation higher than $100 billion for OpenAI. Data analyzed by tracking platform Caplight reveals the current worth to be in excess of $111 billion based on secondary market activity and past fundraising rounds. Meanwhile, trader Rainmaker Securities has witnessed bids valuing OpenAI as high as $143 billion from investors eager to join the startup.
Interest in contributing to OpenAI's upcoming funding appears strong, with reports stating the round could be led by Thrive Capital with a $1 billion investment. Other rumored participants in the round include industry heavyweights like Microsoft, Nvidia and Apple. Should these deals finalize, it would cement a valuation for OpenAI that has climbed rapidly from its last known valuation of $86 billion less than a year ago.
While a valuation above $100 billion may seem high, the success OpenAI has achieved in transitioning from no revenue to billions in projected sales shows the potential for continued strong growth. If the company realizes its potential to transform AI, the high valuation could prove a bargain. The mounting interest from investors creates momentum for others in the AI field and signals market expectations have been reset higher.
As talks continue on OpenAI's forthcoming funding, one thing is clear – this startup has captured the attention of tech investors willing to value it as one of the most promising companies in the world. The next steps will likely spur further secondary market activity and boost valuations for other leaders in developing beneficial artificial intelligence.
