OpenAI Proposes 5% Stake for US Government Amid AI Scrutiny

OpenAI's Proposal to the US Government

OpenAI, a leading player in artificial intelligence, has put forth a proposal to offer the US government a 5% equity stake, according to a report by the Financial Times. This initiative emerges as AI companies are under intense scrutiny regarding the potential misuse of sophisticated AI technologies and their implications for society, intensifying the ongoing discussion about the balance between industry profits and ethical considerations.

The report indicates that OpenAI advocates for this financial stake as a means for the American public to benefit from the anticipated economic advantages of AI advancements. Initial evaluations suggest that this stake could be valued at approximately $42.6 billion, given OpenAI's recent valuation of around $852 billion.

This strategic move by OpenAI, led by Sam Altman, aims to alleviate the increasing political pressure from Washington. Experts believe that this proposal could harmonize the interests of the US government while addressing the scrutiny faced by AI firms. By offering a 5% stake, OpenAI intends to convey that the benefits of the AI revolution should extend to all Americans, rather than being concentrated among a select few industry leaders.

As concerns grow regarding the risks associated with AI technologies—such as security threats, misinformation, job displacement, and market monopolization—this proposal signals the industry's willingness to collaborate with the US government rather than circumvent regulatory frameworks. This latest initiative builds on previous discussions about ensuring public benefits from the AI-driven economic growth. In April 2026, OpenAI had introduced the concept of a 'Public Wealth Fund' aimed at managing assets tied to AI companies to distribute economic benefits to the public. However, this marks the first instance of OpenAI explicitly suggesting a direct 5% stake for the US government.