OpenAI, the pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) company renowned for its creation, ChatGPT, is reportedly in early-stage discussions to secure a new round of funding with a valuation surpassing $100 billion. According to undisclosed sources familiar with the matter, this potential deal could position OpenAI among the world's most valuable startups. Although preliminary talks have involved potential investors, details such as the terms, valuation, and timing of the funding round remain subject to finalization.If this funding round materializes as anticipated, OpenAI would become the second-most valuable startup in the United States, trailing only behind Elon Musk's Space Exploration Technologies Corp., based on data from CBInsights.

Additionally, the company is on track to finalize a separate tender offer in early January, allowing employees to sell shares at an $86 billion valuation. Thrive Capital is leading this initiative, which has reportedly garnered significant interest from investors, surpassing available shares.OpenAI's soaring valuation reflects the whirlwind of interest ignited by its AI breakthrough, ChatGPT, released just one year ago. The chatbot's ability to generate remarkably human-like sentences and even poetry in response to prompts garnered substantial attention, propelling OpenAI to become Silicon Valley's most sought-after startup. With a total funding of $13 billion to date from major investors, including Microsoft Corp., OpenAI has reshaped the tech industry landscape.

In parallel with its funding endeavors, OpenAI has engaged in talks with G42, a venture based in Abu Dhabi, to raise capital for a new chip project. According to insiders, discussions revolve around securing between $8 billion and $10 billion from G42 for the chipmaking project, codenamed Tigris. The objective is to develop semiconductors capable of competing with Nvidia, the current dominant force in the AI chip market.OpenAI faced a period of uncertainty recently when CEO Sam Altman was abruptly removed from his position by the board. Initial concerns led some investors to contemplate reducing their stakes to zero. However, following a five-day leadership upheaval, Altman was reinstated, and a new board was appointed. The company is actively signaling its commitment to refocus on product development amid the recent organizational turbulence.