OpenAI Reportedly Floats Handing Washington a 5% Equity Slice

OpenAI has reportedly discussed giving Washington a 5% ownership position, a slice valued at nearly $42.6 billion.

The Financial Times reported the story on Thursday, citing two people with knowledge of the discussions. The administration’s appetite for the deal is unknown.

A $42.6 Billion Offer to Ease Political Heat

CEO Sam Altman raised the 5% figure during initial talks with President Donald Trump’s team, per the FT. According to him, allowing the public to hold a financial interest in the company is the best way to distribute the benefits created by AI.

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Based on OpenAI’s latest valuation, a 5% equity stake would be worth approximately $42.6 billion. The company secured a record funding round in March, pushing its post-money valuation to $852 billion. OpenAI is also preparing for an initial public offering (IPO). It filed confidentially with the SEC in June but emphasized that timing remains flexible.

Meanwhile, the offer reportedly comes with a catch for competitors. OpenAI’s plan would involve other US AI firms to hand over comparable equity.

OpenAI and the White House did not immediately respond to BeInCrypto’s requests for comment sent outside regular business hours.

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