OpenAI is engaged in complex negotiations with Microsoft regarding the restructuring of the company’s corporate structure. This is reported by the Financial Times, citing several sources familiar with the situation. Previously, OpenAI announced a change in its plans — the business unit is to become a limited-profit company, but control will remain with the non-profit board of directors.
Microsoft, which has already invested thirteen billion dollars in OpenAI, remains a key partner whose approval is necessary to complete the restructuring. The main issue in the negotiations is the size of Microsoft’s stake in the new structure. Additionally, the parties are discussing the terms of broader cooperation — according to FT, Microsoft is proposing to relinquish part of its stake in exchange for access to OpenAI technologies that will be developed after 2030.
Sources cited by the Financial Times note that the negotiations are complicated by increased competition between the companies. The growth of OpenAI’s corporate business and the development of the “Stargate” infrastructure project have intensified the rivalry between the partners.
The FT article emphasizes that the final decision on restructuring depends on agreeing on key terms with Microsoft. Representatives of both companies are currently refraining from public comments on the progress of the negotiations.
