OpenAI has attracted plenty of attention as a leading artificial intelligence (AI) company, driving innovation and shaping the future of this exciting technology. Its products and services like ChatGPT have become household names, and you might be wondering if it’s possible to invest in OpenAi and buy shares.
Unfortunately, OpenAI shares are not yet publicly traded or listed on a stock exchange. In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of OpenAI, the prospects of an OpenAI IPO, and alternative ways to invest and gain exposure.
Once OpenAI goes public, you'll need a brokerage account to invest. Consider opening a brokerage account today so you're ready as soon as the stock hits the market.
31 January, 2025: The latest funding talks surrounding OpenAI could mean that the AI startup ends up with a valuation of around $340 billion.
11 February, 2025: Reports from the BBC say that Elon Musk has led a group offering $97.4 billion (about £78.4 billion) to buy ChatGPT creator, OpenAI. Chief executive Sam Altman was quick to reject Musk’s offer and instead gave a counter offer to buy Twitter for just under $10 billion.
OpenAI is a leading research organisation and technology stock focused on developing AI solutions. Founded in 2015 by notable figures such as Sam Altman, OpenAI’s mission is to ensure that AI serves as a force for good. Its groundbreaking products include large language models (LLMs) like GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) and applications like the beloved and hated ChatGPT, which is already transforming industries from customer service to education.
As it stands, there are no concrete plans for an OpenAI IPO. The company is having no issues raising funds privately, with big tech firms like Microsoft (MSFT) and Nvidia (NVDA) lining up for a slice of the AI action.
Currently, the estimated valuation of OpenAI is a whopping $157 billion (around £126 billion). This valuation was pinned to this hot AI stock after it raised $6.6 billion (about £5 billion) in its latest round of funding (which is when Nvidia and SoftBank got involved).
Currently, there is no fixed date for OpenAI’s IPO. Keep an eye on the news and our IPO calendar for the latest announcements from OpenAI relating to the stock going public. IPOs can take time to prepare, often years, and OpenAI may need more time to mature and develop before reaching this stage.
Although you can’t directly buy shares in OpenAI right now, there are some alternative ways to get some indirect exposure to OpenAI and the broader AI revolution:
| Stock | Icon | 1-year performance (to May. '25) | 5-year performance (to May. '25) | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) |  |
29.47% | 274.59% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Broadcom (AVGO) |  |
54.53% | 644.68% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Micron Technology (MU) |  |
-30.76% | 71.23% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Qualcomm (QCOM) |  |
-20.08% | 79.12% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Analog Devices (ADI) |  |
-2.44% | 81.97% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Teradyne (TER) |  |
-37.65% | 15.36% | Invest Capital at risk |
| Microchip Technology (MCHP) |  |
-47.73% | 7.20% | Invest Capital at risk |
You can’t invest and buy shares in OpenAI just yet, but there are alternative ways to invest and get exposure to OpenAI, who’s LLM ChatGPT has quickly become the best thing since sliced bread (for some).
Be mindful that although there’s plenty of excitement around AI and AI-related technology, this sector is still in its infancy and we’re yet to see any major impacts these companies are going to have, most of the hype is still around its potential.
All investing should be regarded as longer term. The value of your investments can go up and down, and you may get back less than you invest. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. If you’re not sure which investments are right for you, please seek out a financial adviser. Capital at risk.
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