Trump administration explores equity stake in OpenAI amid AI oversight push
Details of the potential deal remain unfinalised, but talks coincide with new executive orders requiring government review of artificial intelligence models before public release.
The Trump administration is in active discussions with OpenAI regarding a potential equity stake in the artificial intelligence company, according to reports first published by NOTUS and subsequently confirmed by CNBC. Senior US officials have held talks with OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman since 2025, following the company’s initial proposal for a “Public Wealth Fund” designed to give citizens a stake in AI-driven economic growth.
While the specifics of a potential agreement have not been finalised and the size of the equity stake remains unknown, the negotiations suggest a framework where OpenAI might voluntarily offer shares to the US government. This approach mirrors the industrial policy outline published by OpenAI in April, which outlined mechanisms for public participation in the financial benefits of advanced technology.
The timing of these discussions coincides with heightened regulatory scrutiny of the sector. Earlier this week, the Trump administration signed an executive order granting the government oversight of AI models prior to their public release. OpenAI has stated it intends to comply with the order, allowing regulators to review its latest models before they become publicly accessible.
President Donald Trump has confirmed engagement with AI executives on deals that would allow citizens to become partners in the companies’ success. These talks follow a precedent set by the US government, which previously secured a 10 per cent stake in Intel through a nearly $9 billion investment, marking a significant shift in how the state interacts with major technology firms.
Altman recently met with Washington policymakers to discuss AI regulation, underscoring the ongoing dialogue between the industry and the government. As the talks continue, it remains unclear whether the voluntary equity offer will proceed as a formal government investment or remain a policy proposal, with no official terms settled at this stage.
