OpenAI is an AI research facility that attracts interest from the media and investors as artificial intelligence gains more attention. For those wondering, "How can I buy OpenAI stock?", there's some bad news: the company is currently privately held and not listed on any major stock exchange.
Industry insiders and financial analysts suggest OpenAI could pursue the largest-ever IPO, possibly exceeding $1 trillion in valuation, scheduled for the second half of 2026. But you don't need to wait for its IPO to gain exposure to OpenAI and ChatGPT.
Although you can't directly purchase OpenAI stock, there are ways to gain exposure to OpenAI and the explosion of Artificial Intelligence sector that OpenAI has helped set alight.
How to Trade or Invest in Open AI – Takeaways
- Step 1: Become knowledgeable about the AI Investment industry. AI makes up only a small percentage of the technology market, with OpenAI being a major player. To better understand AI, consider exploring and investing in other top technology stocks via top brokerages like NAGA.com.
- Step 2: Open a brokerage account. To prepare for the possibility that OpenAI might pursue an IPO in the second half of 2026, or to get exposure on AI, the first step is to open a brokerage account. Trading lets you speculate on rising or falling prices via CFDs, while investing lets you take direct ownership of various AI assets available already.
- Step 3: Keep abreast of business updates. Upon entering and researching the market, it is advisable to stay informed about any statements made by OpenAI. Keep yourself engaged and curious about OpenAI's future advancements so that you'll be ready if the firm decides to pursue an IPO.
Or, if you want to gain a deeper understanding of OpenAI's investment ways before taking a position, continue reading our full guide.
What is Open AI?
Best known for leading the Artificial Intelligence trend, OpenAI is a research organization dedicated to artificial intelligence. The company's mission is to advance AI and make this research widely accessible to the public. OpenAI operates through two segments: the non-profit OpenAI Inc. and its for-profit subsidiary OpenAI L.P. Their goal is to design, develop, and disseminate highly autonomous systems that mimic human speech patterns and performance.
OpenAI was founded in 2015 with a focus on developing AI and machine learning tools for various applications, OpenAI initially launched OpenAI Gym, an open-source framework for creating reinforcement learning algorithms. This product marked its shift towards broader AI research applications.
In 2018, OpenAI introduced the concept of Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT), a neural network—a machine learning model—trained on datasets to simulate the human brain. DALL-E, an image-based version of ChatGPT, allowing users to instruct the generative AI model to create graphics, was released in 2021. ChatGPT gained significant traction as the leading generative AI and chatbot tool for generating resumes, survey questions, and chatbot responses, following its launch in November 2022.
Released in November 2022, ChatGPT is arguably the company's most renowned product, acclaimed as the world's most advanced chatbot for its capacity to furnish answers to users across a vast array of subjects. Discussions persist regarding its merits, limitations, and applications across diverse industries.
Trading and Investing in Generative AI
OpenAI's corporate restructuring
In October 2025, OpenAI completed a restructuring that transformed its for-profit segment into a public benefit corporation called OpenAI Group PBC. The original nonprofit entity, now the OpenAI Foundation, retained legal control and holds a 26% stake valued at around $130 billion. Microsoft owns 27%, while investors and employees hold the remaining 47%. This change removes previous limits on fundraising that were unsustainable under the nonprofit structure.
The restructuring facilitates major investments, including a $30 billion SoftBank commitment and sets the stage for a potential IPO. OpenAI’s new structure enables it to secure funding for its ambitious $1.4 trillion data center expansion and positions the company for sustained growth while maintaining its mission-driven governance.
OpenAI’s infrastructure projects
OpenAI’s infrastructure projects include the Stargate Project, a massive joint venture with Oracle and SoftBank involving up to $500 billion in AI infrastructure investments. OpenAI has committed to building 30 gigawatts of computing capacity, a scale that rivals the electricity output of nine Hoover Dams, enough to power about 13 million U.S. homes.
A key partnership with NVIDIA supports this expansion, with NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang estimating that building one gigawatt of data center capacity costs between $50 and $60 billion, including roughly $35 billion for NVIDIA chips and systems. Much of NVIDIA’s $100 billion investment in OpenAI will be used to lease GPUs, which has raised some concerns about the circular nature of the deal. The first gigawatt of these systems is expected to come online in the second half of 2026.
When will OpenAI IPO?
OpenAI is reportedly preparing for a potential initial public offering (IPO) as early as the second half of 2026. The company could target a valuation of up to $1 trillion, potentially raising at least $60 billion, making it one of the largest IPOs in history. However, discussions are still preliminary, and the exact timing and details may change based on market conditions and company growth.
Despite these reports, OpenAI has stated that an IPO is not currently their focus, emphasizing their commitment to building a long-term, mission-driven business. Chief Financial Officer Sarah Friar has indicated that the company is targeting a 2027 public listing, but some advisors believe it could happen sooner, by late 2026.
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Can you buy Open AI stock?
If you've searched through your trading app or trading platform, you might have noticed that OpenAI doesn't have a stock symbol. As mentioned, OpenAI isn't publicly traded, so its shares aren't accessible to the public. Therefore, you can't buy OpenAI stock direct.
Understanding the difference between privately held and publicly traded companies is crucial to grasp why purchasing OpenAI shares isn't possible. Publicly traded firms list their stock on global exchanges.
Publicly traded companies, as the name suggests, are owned by members of the public who buy stocks. These businesses are regulated and overseen by the Securities Exchange Commission, and they must disclose financial and income information to investors.
As of 2025, OpenAI remains a privately held company, meaning you won't find an OpenAI ticker or stock symbol to invest in. The founders' decision not to offer shares to individual investors could be influenced by the company's hybrid structure, comprising both for-profit and nonprofit entities.
Although direct purchases of OpenAI stock are not permitted, there are still ways to invest. Let's explore how.
How to invest in OpenAI?
Many investors are keen to know how to purchase OpenAI stock, given their position at the forefront of artificial technology. However, OpenAI is not a public company, so buying its stock directly is not feasible. Yet, investors can still gain exposure to the company by investing in stocks and ETFs linked to OpenAI.
Invest in Open AI indirectly (via Microsoft)
Until recently, Microsoft’s equity stake in OpenAI was not clearly defined, even in its SEC filings, and it had never disclosed the size or value of its ownership. That changed in October 2025 when OpenAI restructured, moving away from its nonprofit roots. As part of this restructuring, Microsoft (MSFT) received a 27% stake in the new for-profit entity, OpenAI Group PBC, valued at approximately $135 billion.
In addition to owning equity, Microsoft will continue to receive roughly 20% of OpenAI’s revenue and retain certain rights to OpenAI’s products and underlying AI models, cementing its significant role in the company's future development.
Investors can gain exposure to OpenAI indirectly through one of the best stocks to buy for 2025, according to analysts 'consensus.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. All historical data, including but not limited to returns, volatility, and other performance metrics, should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance.
Investing in OpenAI via Microsoft offers several strategic advantages:
- Access to Cutting-Edge AI Technology: Microsoft's investment grants it privileged access to OpenAI's advanced AI models and intellectual property, which it integrates into products like Microsoft 365 Copilot and Azure AI, enhancing its AI capabilities.
- Strengthening Microsoft's AI Leadership: Partnering with OpenAI accelerates Microsoft's innovation and research, helping it stays competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
- Exclusive Cloud Partnership: OpenAI's API is exclusive to Microsoft's Azure platform, boosting Azure's growth and giving Microsoft customers direct access to top AI models.
- Long-term Strategic Partnership and Revenue Sharing: Microsoft has a revenue-sharing deal with OpenAI and remains a major investor, benefiting from OpenAI's growth with a partnership lasting through at least 2030.
- Potential for Equity and Influence in OpenAI: Microsoft's $13-14 billion investment secures an equity stake, giving it influences over OpenAI's future and access to new technologies, especially amid OpenAI's possible restructuring.
- Diversification and Risk Management: While Microsoft integrates other AI models to reduce dependence on OpenAI, its investment keeps it strongly positioned in AI innovation without overreliance on one source.
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Trade and invest in leading AI stocks
While investing directly in OpenAI might not be feasible at present, you can still explore artificial intelligence investments through other publicly traded avenues. Like OpenAI, several tech firms are actively engaged in AI research. It's often said that shovel vendors fare better during a gold rush than prospectors themselves. Investing in companies that manufacture the hardware essential for AI could provide a lucrative opportunity to partake in the AI "gold rush."
Generally, stocks of companies leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in their products, services, or applications are termed AI stocks. While only a few companies in the Nasdaq 100 technology index currently integrate AI into their customer solutions, the anticipated widespread adoption of AI across various industries is expected to significantly impact the economy. Industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, marketing, education, and resources are actively developing AI-enabled solutions.
Explore some of the best AI Stocks for 2025
Nvidia (NVDA)
OpenAI does not receive direct funding from Nvidia (NVDA). However, the AI megatrend greatly benefits semiconductor stocks. Nvidia dominates the AI semiconductor market with its GPUs powering AI data centers and generative AI applications. Nvidia’s hardware is critical infrastructure for training and running OpenAI’s models, making it an essential AI play.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. All historical data, including but not limited to returns, volatility, and other performance metrics, should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance.
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Advanced Micro Dev (AMD)
Advanced Micro Dev (AMD), a leading semiconductor manufacturer, plays a vital role in powering the computing systems that drive artificial intelligence. With its diverse product range, AMD has forged strong connections with the technical community. AMD challenges Nvidia in AI chips with its MI300X designed for data centers and generative AI workloads. AMD’s chips are used by major cloud providers, indirectly supporting AI models like those from OpenAI.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. All historical data, including but not limited to returns, volatility, and other performance metrics, should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance.
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Amazon (AMZN)
Amazon (AMZN) is arguably the firm that uses artificial intelligence the most. One of the proponents of machine learning and artificial intelligence has been Jeff Bezos, the company's founder and CEO. Technology has always been at the heart of Amazon, even though the company began as an online store. Amazon Web Services (AWS) provides AI infrastructure powering many AI applications, including those developed by startups and enterprises. While AWS is not directly tied to OpenAI, it supports AI workloads at scale, giving investors exposure to AI cloud growth.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. All historical data, including but not limited to returns, volatility, and other performance metrics, should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance.
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Trade and invest in AI ETFs
Although OpenAI's unique status prevents its shares from being included in ETFs, investors can still invest in related AI projects if they are not comfortable selecting individual stocks. Consider top technology-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that provide exposure to generative technologies like OpenAI.
Here we feature some of the most popular ETFs with exposure to the AI sector. As you consider these options, be sure to review the fund's prospectus to understand the investment strategy, holdings, and fees.
iShares Exponential Technologies ETF (XT)
The iShares Exponential Technologies ETF (NASDAQ: XT) may be an appealing option for investors looking for a technology investment with a lower expense ratio. Compared to other technology-focused ETFs, this one has a net expense ratio of 0.46%, allowing you to retain more of your gains. XT holds assets in various technology-related industries, including automation and robotics.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. All historical data, including but not limited to returns, volatility, and other performance metrics, should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance.
The XT Fund, a large-cap fund, aims to track the Morningstar Exponential Technologies Index. It selects international stocks, including those in artificial intelligence, that are developing cutting-edge technologies with the potential to disrupt their respective industries. Approximately 53% of the fund's holdings are estimated to be in the information technology and healthcare sectors. The AI fund's top three holdings are Nvidia (NVDA), First Solar Inc (FSOLAR), and Moderna Inc.
ROBO Global Robotics & Automation ETF (ROBO)
The ROBO Global Robotics & Automation ETF (NYSE: ROBO) aims to provide investors with access to companies at the forefront of technological innovation, particularly in robotics and automation driven by artificial intelligence. The fund offers diverse investment opportunities, as no single asset constitutes more than 4% of its holdings. However, compared to other ETFs, ROBO can be more expensive due to its nearly 1% expense ratio.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. All historical data, including but not limited to returns, volatility, and other performance metrics, should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance.
The Robo Global Artificial Intelligence Fund was introduced in May 2020 to track the performance of the ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence Index, an AI-focused index established by Robo Global in 2013. Like the WisdomTree AI Fund, it gives investors access to numerous businesses that use artificial intelligence in various forms. The AI fund's top three holdings are Harmonic Drive Systems and IPG Photonics Corp. (IPGP) and Zebra Technologies Corp. (ZBRA).
Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ)
The Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (NASDAQ: BOTZ), an exchange-traded fund, invests in companies involved in the advancement of AI. The fund's top holdings include stocks like Nvidia (NVDA), Intuitive Surgical (ISRG), and private AI development firms such as ABB Ltd.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. All historical data, including but not limited to returns, volatility, and other performance metrics, should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance.
The Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence ETF (BOTZ) aims to invest in companies that may benefit from increased use and adoption of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). These companies may include those involved in autonomous vehicles, non-industrial robots, and industrial robotics and automation.
Should you invest in Open AI (Chat GPT)?
While there isn't a direct method for investing in OpenAI at present, many long-term investors might consider indirect options. Specifically, buying Microsoft stock could be a prudent choice if you want to benefit from OpenAI's innovations. No other stock is as closely connected to OpenAI.
Generative AI technology, such as OpenAI's GPT-4, is likely to be a game-changer. According to the global consulting firm McKinsey & Company, generative AI could have an annual economic impact of up to $4.4 trillion. This amount surpasses the GDP of every country except the United States, China, and Japan.
Investors should also consider purchasing other AI stocks that could benefit from the generative AI boom. For instance, Nvidia produces graphics processing units (GPUs) that are ideal for powering AI applications. Nvidia's GPUs could see strong demand even if an OpenAI rival, such as AutoGPT, ultimately achieves greater success. However, the downside to buying Nvidia is that its share price already reflects significant growth expectations.
You might also consider buying stocks of companies that are utilizing AI. For example, Salesforce (CRM 0.93%) has integrated with OpenAI to develop Einstein GPT, which generates content for customer relationship management functions. Another option is Atlassian (TEAM 1.63%), which has partnered with OpenAI to incorporate generative AI into its products.
Trading AI stocks
Buying AI stocks
‘Trading’ lets you speculate on the price of a stock or other financial asset rising or falling using derivatives like CFDs. If you want to take a position on AI stocks or ETFs without owning them directly, then CFDs might be for you.
Bear in mind that these are leveraged products, which means they enable you to get full market exposure for an initial deposit – known as margin. But, while leverage can increase your profits, it can also increase your losses.
‘Investing’ means that you’re taking direct ownership of something with the aim to potentially benefit from prices rising. You’ll be able to invest in the shares of individual companies that are involved in the AI sector, or in ETFs to get broad exposure to AI.
Leverage isn’t available when you’re investing, so you’ll need to commit the full cost of your position upfront. While this could increase your initial outlay, it also caps your maximum risk with the amount of money you paid to open your position.
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Conclusion
One of the pioneers in generative AI is unquestionably OpenAI. ChatGPT is still gaining more popularity day by day. OpenAI's technology has the potential to usher in a new era in which artificial intelligence (AI) is considerably more pervasive in practically every facet of civilization. Even while OpenAI is not directly investable, you can purchase the stocks of businesses that will benefit from its AI advancements.
Though AI is a fascinating field with investing opportunities, it's crucial to keep in mind that cutting-edge technology might lead to riskier investment choices. If you're new to the market, invest in AI as a modest percentage of a diversified portfolio and think about using an ETF rather than individual stocks. An easy diversity layer is provided by investing in an ETF, which exposes you to all underlying assets mentioned in the holdings list.
Free Resources
Before you start investing or trading AI stocks, you should consider using the educational resources we offer like NAGA Academy or a demo trading account. NAGA Academy has lots of free trading and investing courses for you to choose from, and they all tackle a different financial concept or process – like the basics of analyses – to help you to become a better trader or make more-informed investment decisions.
Our demo account is a suitable place for you to learn more about leveraged trading, and you’ll be able to get an intimate understanding of how CFDs work – as well as what it’s like to trade with leverage – before risking real capital. For this reason, a demo account with us is a great tool for stock investors who are looking to make a transition to leveraged trading.
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