While users experiment with ChatGPT’s new image-generation features, OpenAI is working on securing a massive new funding round. According to a Bloomberg report, the company is finalizing a $40 billion investment, led by SoftBank.
The round is expected to include contributions from several major investors, including Magnetar Capital, Coatue Management, Founders Fund, and Altimeter Capital Management. Magnetar may invest as much as $1 billion.
SoftBank plans to contribute $7.5 billion upfront, with an additional $2.5 billion coming from an investor syndicate. Later this year, a second tranche will bring in another $22.5 billion from SoftBank and $7.5 billion more from other investors.
This follows OpenAI’s $6.6 billion funding round in October 2024, which was led by Thrive Capital at a $157 billion valuation. Bloomberg reports that this latest mega-round will push OpenAI’s valuation to an astonishing $300 billion.
