The Powers That Be: Daily Sam Altman’s A.I. Power Loop
Nov 5, 2025
Ian Krietzberg, an AI reporter for Puck, dives into OpenAI's transformation from an idealistic nonprofit to a profit-driven powerhouse under Sam Altman's leadership. He discusses how the company's shift to for-profit was crucial for securing investments. The episode reveals insights from a pivotal deposition about Altman’s removal attempt, alongside accusations of deceptive behavior. Krietzberg also argues that advertising could be OpenAI’s best strategy to achieve massive revenue, despite user trust concerns. A must-listen for AI enthusiasts!
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Capping Removed To Unlock Investor Returns
- OpenAI removed its profit ceiling by converting its hybrid structure into a public benefit corporation owned partly by the nonprofit and investors.
- This change unlocks investor returns and shifts real control toward investors like Microsoft and other stakeholders.
Huge Losses Undercut Lofty Revenue Targets
- OpenAI is a massively money-losing company, with nuclear-scale quarterly losses implied in Microsoft's filings.
- Ambitious revenue targets like $100 billion are speculative against current multibillion-dollar quarterly losses.
Altman As Fundraiser, Not Chief Scientist
- Sam Altman's chief skill is fundraising and dealmaking rather than technical AI leadership.
- He signs ambitious letters of intent to unlock narratives and market movement despite lacking immediate funding.
