OpenAI estimates a negative cash flow of 278 billion dollars by 2030, amid massive investments in AI infrastructure

OpenAI estimates that it will record cumulative negative free cash flow of $278 billion between 2026 and 2030, as it massively expands investments in computing power and infrastructure to develop and operate artificial intelligence models, according to a company presentation reviewed by the Financial Times and cited by Reuters.

The projections highlight the enormous funding needs of the company that develops ChatGPT. OpenAI has reportedly held discussions about a new funding round at a valuation of approximately $1.2 trillion. In March, the company raised $122 billion at a valuation of $852 billion, but the funds could be depleted by 2028 at its current spending rate.

OpenAI’s revenue is expected to increase from $36 billion this year to $350 billion in 2030, while cumulative revenue by the end of the decade could reach approximately $840 billion. At the same time, the company estimates spending of around $856 billion on computing and infrastructure.

OpenAI confidentially filed documents in June for a possible initial public offering. Chief Executive Sam Altman said, however, that the company would not go public in 2026, citing concerns related to artificial intelligence safety. OpenAI did not immediately provide a comment to Reuters.