SoftBank's real bet on OpenAI isn't the model, it's the debt at a $1.2T valuation
CurieuxExplorer · x · 2026-09-21
OpenAI's next fundraise ahead of an IPO is reportedly being structured around an enterprise valuation of roughly $1.2 trillion, meaning SoftBank and other existing investors would barely increase their stake even if they put in more capital. Commenters note this is a gamble far bigger than WeWork for SoftBank — failure would shake Japan's stock market, so OpenAI needs to reach listing. As the post puts it: the model isn't the bet, the debt is.
Related event: OpenAI in Early Talks for Pre-IPO Round at $1.2 Trillion Valuation(4 posts)→
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