Elon Musk Podcast Elon Musk’s $97.4 Billion Power Play: A Battle for OpenAI’s Soul
Feb 11, 2025
Elon Musk has launched a jaw-dropping $97.4 billion bid to take control of OpenAI, igniting a fierce rivalry with CEO Sam Altman. This power play raises questions about the future of the nonprofit as it shifts towards for-profit structures. The implications of Musk's move may alter OpenAI's governance, fundraising strategies, and attract significant regulatory scrutiny. The stakes are personal and monetary, making this clash one to watch closely.
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Musk Bids for OpenAI
- Elon Musk might bid $97.4 billion for OpenAI, challenging Sam Altman's leadership.
- Altman responded dismissively, offering to buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if Musk wanted.
OpenAI's Structure
- Since leaving OpenAI in 2018, Musk has criticized its shift from non-profit to for-profit.
- This structure creates an unusual governance dynamic, with the non-profit board retaining control.
Musk's Strategy
- Musk's bid targets the non-profit governing OpenAI, exploiting its smaller size and legal authority.
- This complicates OpenAI's independence negotiations by setting a high market price for its assets.