OpenAI has discussed a proposal to grant the U.S. government a 5% equity stake in the company, according to a media report. The proposal is aimed at strengthening ties with the Trump administration and ensuring that the economic gains from artificial intelligence are shared more widely with the public.
Public Share in AI Gains
According to the report, OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman believes the benefits of the fast-growing AI economy should not be limited to private investors alone. The proposal to provide the U.S. government with an ownership stake is being seen as part of that broader idea.
Under the proposed framework, other leading U.S. AI companies could also allocate around 5% of their equity to a Special Investment Vehicle. The objective would be to distribute long-term economic gains from the AI industry more broadly.
Discussions Still at Early Stage
The report said the discussions remain preliminary and no final decision has been taken. It is also unclear whether the U.S. government or relevant regulatory authorities would accept such an arrangement.
The development comes after U.S. President Donald Trump recently said he planned to meet leading AI companies to discuss whether the government should take equity stakes in them. He said such a move could help address public concerns about the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence.
Governance and Oversight Questions
OpenAI is currently among the world’s most valuable AI companies, with an estimated valuation of about $852 billion. As AI technologies expand rapidly, governments and regulators are exploring ways to improve transparency, accountability and public benefit across the sector.
A researcher at Algoritha Security said technological innovation alone is not enough as the AI industry grows. The researcher said any partnership between governments and AI companies should be backed by a clear regulatory framework, independent oversight, strong data protection measures and safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest.
