Sam Altman says ‘enough’ to questions about OpenAI’s revenue

In a recent appearance on the Bg2 podcast, OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, confidently asserted that the company is generating significantly more than $13 billion annually. However, he appeared slightly annoyed when questioned about how OpenAI will manage its substantial spending commitments. During the interview, co-host and Altimeter Capital CEO Brad Gerstner highlighted reports indicating OpenAI's revenue figures. While $13 billion is impressive, it pales in comparison to the staggering $1 trillion in computing infrastructure commitments the company has made over the next ten years. Altman responded firmly, stating, "First of all, we’re doing well more revenue than that." He further suggested that there are investors eager to acquire shares in OpenAI, saying, "If you want to sell your shares, I’ll find you a buyer. I just — enough. I think there are a lot of people who would love to buy OpenAI shares." Gerstner chimed in, expressing interest in purchasing shares himself. Altman also addressed the skepticism surrounding OpenAI's future, noting that while there are risks, such as potential issues in securing computing resources, he remains optimistic. He emphasized that revenue is on a steep upward trajectory, stating, "We are taking a forward bet that it will continue to grow." Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, who joined Altman on the podcast, chuckled at his responses and remarked that OpenAI has consistently exceeded every financial projection provided to Microsoft as an investor. As the conversation shifted back to OpenAI's revenue and potential IPO, Gerstner speculated that the company could reach $100 billion by 2028 or 2029. Altman humorously countered with a target of 2027 and clarified that there are no current plans for an initial public offering. "No no no, we don’t have anything that specific. I’m a realist; I assume it will happen someday, but I don’t know why people write these reports. We don’t have a date in mind," he concluded.