Microsoft acquires 27% of OpenAI after strategic agreement with ChatGPT

In a landmark move for the tech industry, Microsoft and OpenAI announced an agreement allowing the US giant to acquire a 27% stake in OpenAI Group PBC . The transaction values ​​OpenAI at $500 billion and redefines its corporate structure, transforming it into a public benefit corporation with the ability to generate profits and raise capital more flexibly.

Since 2019, Microsoft had maintained a strategic partnership with OpenAI, providing cloud computing services in exchange for rights to some of its developments. However, the explosive growth of ChatGPT , with over 700 million weekly users, led OpenAI to require greater financial and operational autonomy.

The popularity of ChatGPT has made OpenAI the face of artificial intelligence for millions of users. The new structure allows the company to invest in new AI models while maintaining control of the non-profit foundation over the for-profit entity.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, will not receive personal shares in the new structure, reinforcing the company's focus on AI mission and security rather than individual profits.

With this investment, Microsoft has secured an estimated return of nearly 10 times its initial investment of $13.8 billion . The company's shares rose 2.5% , surpassing a market capitalization of $4 trillion . Furthermore, the agreement guarantees collaboration until 2032 , including rights to OpenAI's models, even if artificial general intelligence (AGI) is achieved.

The agreement simplifies OpenAI's structure, allowing for transparent recapitalization and greater clarity regarding investment paths. Furthermore, OpenAI will be able to acquire $250 billion worth of computing services on Azure , while Microsoft relinquishes its rights to OpenAI hardware.

The acquisition of io Products , the company of former Apple design chief Jony Ive, for $6.5 billion , strengthens OpenAI's technology ecosystem, expanding its capacity to develop advanced interfaces and innovative AI products.

From Silicon Valley offices to Azure labs, the agreement marks a pivotal chapter in the history of artificial intelligence . Microsoft not only secures a strategic stake but also ensures that OpenAI's innovation has a clear path to global expansion . Analysts agree that this alliance will be key to the evolution of responsible and commercially viable AI , while maintaining ethical oversight through the non-profit foundation.