OpenAI becomes world's most valuable startup, surpassing SpaceX

Business Oct 02, 2025

OpenAI just hit a $500 billion valuation after a recent share sale, letting employees cash out about $6.6 billion worth of shares.
This leap puts OpenAI ahead of SpaceX as the world's most valuable startup—a big jump from its previous $300 billion mark in a recent round.

Keeping employees happy and loyal

The latest investment round brought in Thrive Capital, SoftBank, Dragoneer, Abu Dhabi's MGX, and T. Rowe Price.
Beyond raising its value, OpenAI used this move to keep employees happy and loyal—especially with tech giants like Meta offering huge paychecks to lure away top AI talent.