While users continue to explore ChatGPT’s latest image-generation features, OpenAI is quietly finalizing one of the largest private fundraising rounds in tech history. According to Bloomberg, the AI research and deployment company is close to securing a massive $40 billion investment round, with SoftBank set to lead the deal.
The funding round is expected to significantly boost OpenAI’s valuation—doubling it from $157 billion in October 2024 to a staggering $300 billion. That earlier round, led by Thrive Capital, brought in $6.6 billion. Now, less than a year later, OpenAI’s valuation leap signals the rapidly accelerating interest in generative AI from global investors.
Sources familiar with the matter say SoftBank plans to kick off the round with an initial $7.5 billion commitment. Another $2.5 billion will reportedly come from a group of syndicate investors, bringing the first tranche to $10 billion. Bloomberg adds that a second tranche is planned for later this year. In that phase, SoftBank could invest an additional $22.5 billion, with another $7.5 billion expected from co-investors—bringing the total deal to $40 billion.
Several well-known investment firms are also in active discussions to participate. Magnetar Capital may contribute up to $1 billion, while other firms such as Coatue Management, Founders Fund, and Altimeter Capital Management are in talks to join the syndicate. Their combined involvement could make this one of the largest single private funding rounds ever seen in the tech sector.
This deal comes at a time when OpenAI is not only developing powerful AI tools but also solidifying its position as a dominant force in the generative AI space. From language models like GPT-4 to multimodal tools that create images and answer complex queries, OpenAI’s innovations are drawing interest from both tech users and institutional investors alike.
The scale of this funding round reflects broader momentum in the AI sector. Venture capital firms and hedge funds are aggressively pursuing high-growth opportunities in AI infrastructure, applications, and foundation model development. OpenAI’s rapid product rollout, along with its partnerships and enterprise adoption, has made it one of the most sought-after startups in the world.
SoftBank’s leadership in this round also speaks volumes. Known for backing transformative tech companies through its Vision Fund, SoftBank’s renewed commitment to AI signals a strategic shift back into ambitious, long-term bets on artificial intelligence after some earlier investment setbacks.
If the round is finalized as projected, it will significantly increase OpenAI’s financial war chest—fueling future research, computing power, and global expansion. It may also give the company more independence in its complex relationship with Microsoft, its largest strategic partner and investor.
As the AI arms race heats up, this $40 billion deal could reshape the landscape and reinforce OpenAI’s position at the forefront of artificial intelligence innovation.
