Microsoft (MSFT, Financials) isn't clinging to its OpenAI stake. It's playing the long game. If OpenAI's heading toward an IPO, Microsoft's fine stepping back—so long as it stays plugged into the tech that's powering the future.
Back in 2019, Microsoft invested $1 billion into OpenAI. Since then, that number ballooned to over $13 billion. But now, the two are shaking up the deal. Microsoft's reportedly ready to give up part of its stake in exchange for long-term access to OpenAI's next-gen models—even beyond 2030.
Why? Because in AI, it's not just about owning the hotshot startup—it's about staying connected to the breakthroughs. And that's what this deal reshuffle is all about.
OpenAI, meanwhile, is getting serious about the next phase. According to The Information, it told investors Microsoft will get a smaller revenue cut going forward. The vibe? More independence, less hand-holding.
Microsoft's cool with that. It recently shifted gears again, teaming up with Oracle (ORCL, Financials) and SoftBank to launch a monster $500 billion U.S. AI data center play.
Neither company commented to Reuters, but the writing's on the wall: Microsoft wants to be wherever the future of AI is happening. Even if that means it owns less of the action.
This is what modern tech alliances look like—leaner, looser, and laser-focused on staying in the game.
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