Agency Directed by Elon Musk Submits $97.4 Billion Offer for OpenAI, According to WSJ Report

11

Elon Musk, along with a group of investors, has put forth a $97.4 billion offer to acquire the controlling nonprofit organization of OpenAI, as reported by the WSJ on Monday.

Exclusive: An investor group led by Elon Musk is making an unsolicited $97 billion offer for control of OpenAI https://t.co/KsD1XPdSBK

— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) February 10, 2025

This proposal intensifies the ongoing conflict between Elon Musk and OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, regarding the company’s strategic direction.

no thanks but we’ll buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want

— Sam Altman (@sama) February 10, 2025

“No thanks, but we’ll buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if you want,” Altman stated in a post on X, replying to the offer.

Musk’s History with OpenAI and His Concerns

Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 and departed in 2019 due to internal disagreements, has frequently criticized its evolution into a for-profit organization.

He contends that OpenAI’s transition emphasizes profit generation over its initial goal of benefiting humanity, a concern that has led to legal disputes between the parties.

Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, is spearheading the bid with financial backing from Valor Equity Partners, 8VC, and Hollywood executive Ari Emanuel.

Under Altman’s leadership, OpenAI has shifted towards a for-profit model, actively seeking funding to advance its AI research.

Altman has defended this transition, asserting that significant investment is essential for large-scale AI innovation.

As part of this initiative, he announced a $500 billion investment in AI infrastructure through a joint venture, Stargate.

Musk’s Bid for OpenAI Creates Uncertainty

Elon Musk’s acquisition proposal has introduced uncertainty regarding OpenAI’s strategic direction, potentially impacting its funding initiatives and business partnerships.

Scam Altman
pic.twitter.com/j9EXIqBZ8u

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 10, 2025

Musk’s offer indicates an attempt to realign OpenAI with its founding principles of transparency and responsible AI research.

In response to the bid, Altman humorously suggested purchasing Twitter for a fraction of Musk’s offer, underscoring the ongoing tension between the two technology leaders.

This recent development adds another dimension to the intricate relationship between Musk and Altman, two influential figures in the AI sector.

The outcome of Musk’s bid could alter OpenAI’s path and influence AI development on a global scale.

The post Elon Musk-Led Firm Makes $97.4B Bid for OpenAI: WSJ Report appeared first on Cryptonews.