Last week, reports suggested that after OpenAI’s proposed restructuring and legal shift to a commercial track, CEO and founder Sam Altman would receive a significant block of shares as compensation for his work. However, during an OpenAI staff meeting on Thursday, Altman denied these rumors, as reported by CNBC.
Altman Addresses Share Rumors
According to the source, both CEO Sam Altman and CFO Sarah Friar spoke at the staff meeting via video broadcast. They mentioned that investors had concerns about Altman not holding shares in OpenAI, which he co-founded almost nine years ago. Despite this, Altman emphasized that the rumors about OpenAI’s intentions to grant him a large block of shares were unfounded, stating that such plans do not exist at this time.
Discussions on OpenAI’s Restructuring
OpenAI Chairman Bret Taylor confirmed to CNBC that while the board discussed the possibility of rewarding Altman with company stock, no concrete action has been taken, adds NIX Solutions. Sources indicated that Thursday’s meeting aimed to discuss a potential restructuring scenario in which the for-profit arm of OpenAI might take the lead, while the nonprofit arm would retain power but with reduced influence.
Sam Altman further clarified that the recent departures of three senior OpenAI executives, including CTO Mira Murati, were unrelated to the restructuring plans. These departures had been under discussion for a year, and the executives are simply preparing for the next phase of their careers. OpenAI, in turn, is preparing for its own next steps. We’ll keep you updated on any future developments.