SoftBank has completed its full investment commitment of about $40 billion in OpenAI, according to sources cited by CNBC (30/12).

The Japanese investment group transferred a final payment of roughly $22 billion to $22.5 billion last week, people familiar with the deal said.

Deal Values OpenAI at $260 Billion Pre-Money

CNBC previously reported that the investment values the ChatGPT maker at a $260 billion pre-money valuation.

At the time, the funding was expected to be paid over a 12- to 24-month period.

SoftBank’s Ownership Rises to Around 11%

SoftBank had earlier invested $7.5 billion directly in OpenAI and syndicated another $11 billion with co-investors.

With a total aggregate commitment of about $41 billion, SoftBank’s stake in OpenAI is now around 11%.

Funding Supports AI Infrastructure Expansion

Some of the funding was planned to support OpenAI’s artificial intelligence infrastructure, Stargate joint venture with Oracle, and SoftBank.

Companies across the sector have been increasing spending on data centers and connectivity to meet rising AI demand.

Broader AI Commitments and Strategic Moves

OpenAI has made more than $1.4 trillion in infrastructure commitments over the coming years, including agreements with Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices, and Broadcom.

SoftBank recently agreed to acquire data center investment firm DigitalBridge for $4 billion and also sold its entire $5.8 billion stake in Nvidia, with sources saying the sale helped support the OpenAI investment.

PHOTO: AFP/YUICHI YAMAZAKI

This article was created with AI assistance.