TechCheck

OpenAI eyes $500B valuation deal 8/6/25

Aug 6, 2025
Mackenzie Sigalos, a journalist covering business, finance, and technology, discusses the buzz around OpenAI's potential $500 billion valuation tied to an employee share sale. She highlights the fast-paced negotiations and who might benefit the most. The conversation dives into how this valuation compares to tech giants and how the changing financial landscape impacts employees under the two-year hold rule. Sigalos also touches on OpenAI’s transition to a public benefit corporation and its ongoing partnerships, particularly with Microsoft.
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INSIGHT

OpenAI's $500B Valuation Aspirations

  • OpenAI is in talks for an employee share sale valuing the company at around $500 billion.
  • This would surpass SpaceX and place OpenAI above major public companies like Netflix and ExxonMobil.
INSIGHT

Rapid Secondary Sale due to Demand

  • OpenAI's rapid secondary sale talks stem from high investor demand and timing tied to shareholding eligibility.
  • Thrive Capital is leading these talks amid significant oversubscription of OpenAI's recent primary funding round.
INSIGHT

OpenAI Restructuring and Microsoft Talks

  • OpenAI's restructure into a public benefit corporation legally mandates serving public good alongside profits.
  • Ongoing talks with Microsoft focus on cloud partnerships, equity stakes, and computing flexibility rights.
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