OpenAI is reportedly in early-stage discussions to grant a 5% stake in the ChatGPT developer to the US government, as artificial intelligence companies seek to improve relations with Donald Trump's administration.
Details of the Proposal
According to the Financial Times, which cited two unnamed sources familiar with the talks, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has argued that giving the US public a financial stake in the company is the best way to share the benefits of AI. The proposal would also involve other US AI companies, such as Anthropic, Google, and Meta, contributing a similar stake to the government, though it remains unclear whether they would agree.
Such a deal could help garner political support by distributing wealth generated by the AI boom to the public and ease tensions with Washington. The talks are described as “conceptual” and in early stages; any implementation might require an act of Congress.
Background and Context
The proposal comes amid growing pressure from the US government on AI companies. Last month, Anthropic suspended its newest model after the government ordered it to restrict access for foreign nationals on national security grounds. This week, Anthropic said it had restored customer access after resolving safety concerns.
Altman and other OpenAI executives have suggested that each major US AI developer should give 5% of their equity to an investment vehicle similar to the Alaska Permanent Fund—a sovereign fund that invests oil wealth and pays dividends to the state.
Previous Policy Suggestions
Both OpenAI and Anthropic have previously proposed in policy papers that a public or sovereign wealth fund might be needed to distribute shares to the public. In April, OpenAI stated that a “public wealth fund” could provide “every citizen – including those not invested in financial markets – with a stake in AI-driven economic growth.”
OpenAI and Anthropic are preparing for US stock market listings, with some investors believing both companies could be valued at over $1 trillion.
Political Engagement
Altman has been in talks with Trump, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about public ownership, according to the FT. He has also reportedly spoken with Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders, who has been pushing for a sovereign wealth fund financed through a one-time 50% tax on the stock of the largest AI companies.
OpenAI was approached for comment but did not respond.
