OpenAI: The World’s Most Valuable Startup at a $500B Valuation
OpenAI, a leading player in the artificial intelligence industry, has successfully completed a massive $6.6 billion secondary share sale. This significant transaction has propelled the company to an unprecedented $500 billion valuation, earning it the title of the world’s most valuable privately held company.
The deal enabled both current and former employees to cash out shares at record prices. Major investors who participated in the transaction include:
- SoftBank
- Thrive Capital
- Dragoneer Investment Group
- Abu Dhabi’s MGX
- T. Rowe Price
This remarkable achievement surpasses Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which was previously valued at approximately $456 billion. This marks a significant milestone in the AI industry.
The valuation represents a massive leap from OpenAI’s previous $300 billion price tag from earlier this year. This demonstrates unprecedented investor confidence in the generative AI sector.
The secondary sale comes as OpenAI reported generating $4.3 billion in revenue during the first half of 2025. Projections suggest the company could reach a $20 billion annual run rate.
Despite not yet turning a profit, the valuation reflects high expectations for AI technology’s transformative potential across industries.
Source: Bloomberg