OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently addressed questions about the company’s finances during a joint interview with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on the Bg2 podcast. Altman confirmed that OpenAI is earning significantly more than the reported $13 billion in annual revenue but declined to provide further details on how the company will handle its large future spending commitments.
The discussion began when podcast host Brad Gerstner, CEO of Altimeter Capital, raised concerns about OpenAI’s $13 billion in revenue versus its reported $1 trillion in future computing infrastructure expenses over the next decade.
Altman responded sharply, saying, “First of all, we’re doing well more revenue than that. Second of all, Brad, if you want to sell your shares, I’ll find you a buyer.” The remark prompted laughter from Nadella, and Gerstner jokingly expressed interest in buying shares as well.
Altman dismissed worries about OpenAI’s financial stability, particularly regarding its heavy investments in computing resources. He acknowledged potential risks, such as difficulties in securing enough computing power, but emphasized that OpenAI’s revenue was “growing steeply.” He expressed confidence in the company’s future growth, focusing on its expansion of ChatGPT, AI cloud services, and consumer devices.
“We are taking a forward bet that it will continue to grow,” Altman said, emphasizing AI’s ability to automate science and unlock significant value.
Microsoft’s Nadella also joined in, claiming that OpenAI had exceeded every business expectation presented to Microsoft as an investor. Later in the conversation, Gerstner speculated that OpenAI could reach $100 billion in revenue by 2028 or 2029, to which Altman responded with a playful “’27” but denied any immediate plans for an IPO.
“We don’t have a date in mind, we don’t have a board decision to do this or anything like that,” he said, though he acknowledged that going public was a possibility down the line.
Altman’s comments reflect OpenAI’s focus on long-term growth despite questions about its financial commitments and future IPO plans.
