OpenAI is reportedly seeking up to USD 30 billion in fresh funding at a USD 1.25 trillion pre-money valuation ahead of its planned IPO. The ChatGPT developer is negotiating the private funding round with Coatue and investors from the United Arab Emirates, according to CNBC reports published Thursday.
The proposed funding round could help cover OpenAI’s growing computing costs while providing capital ahead of a potential IPO.
The terms remain under discussion, and OpenAI has not confirmed the reported deal. CNBC also reports that the UAE discussions could include an agreement for additional computing capacity.
The latest target marks a shift from earlier reports that OpenAI sought a USD 1.4 trillion valuation. Bloomberg reported those discussions in September, while current negotiations point to a lower figure. The final valuation and total funding amount could still change before the deal closes.
If completed at the reported valuation, the deal could make OpenAI the world’s most valuable private company. It would also set a demanding benchmark for the company’s eventual public listing.
OpenAI confidentially filed IPO paperwork in June after raising USD 122 billion in March at a USD 852 billion post-money valuation.
The fundraising discussions come as rival Anthropic also prepares for a potential public listing. Reports suggest Anthropic could seek a valuation between USD 1.5 trillion and USD 2 trillion for its IPO. The company raised USD 65 billion in May at a reported USD 965 billion valuation.
The competing fundraising plans highlight the capital AI companies are seeking to expand their models and computing infrastructure.
OpenAI’s reported UAE discussions could combine financial investment with access to additional computing resources. However, neither the funding agreement nor its final terms have been confirmed.
OpenAI’s next steps will determine whether the private raise advances before its expected public market debut. The proposed deal reflects continued demand for AI investment, alongside growing scrutiny of valuations at trillion-dollar levels.
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