Artificial intelligence giant OpenAI has issued a strong warning to investors, cautioning them against engaging in the unauthorised sale or transfer of its equity. The organisation, which has rapidly risen to global prominence for its groundbreaking AI technologies including the widely used ChatGPT, made it clear that all transactions involving its shares must comply strictly with its internal policies and regulatory standards.
In a statement released by the company’s legal team, OpenAI expressed concern over reports of potential backdoor dealings and unauthorised offers involving its equity—particularly from early investors or employees seeking to cash out stakes. The firm reiterated that such actions not only violate company policy but may also expose individuals and third parties to serious legal consequences.
“We are aware of attempts by some parties to engage in secondary share sales without proper approval. We want to make it unequivocally clear that any such sale or attempted transfer of equity without explicit consent from OpenAI constitutes a breach of contract and could result in legal action,” the statement read.
OpenAI operates under a unique structure that combines a capped-profit model with its nonprofit mission. Its approach to equity and investment differs from traditional tech companies, making compliance with its governance structure all the more critical. The company clarified that any secondary sale or liquidity arrangement must pass through formal approval processes to protect both its mission and the integrity of its investor ecosystem.
The warning comes at a time when the AI sector is experiencing massive investment interest, with OpenAI at the centre of the boom due to its partnership with Microsoft and rapid product rollout. As a result, demand for a stake in the company has surged, prompting speculative interest in private share transactions, especially through unofficial channels.
Industry observers have noted that such unofficial equity dealings are not uncommon in the fast-moving tech space, particularly among startups with limited public access. However, OpenAI’s latest stance sends a clear signal that it intends to maintain tight control over its investor landscape as it navigates its next phase of growth and innovation.
Investors and potential buyers have now been advised to conduct all equity-related discussions directly with OpenAI’s authorised representatives and to avoid third-party facilitators who lack formal ties to the company.