How to buy OpenAI shares when it goes public

OpenAI is the creator of the infamous artificial intelligence (AI) product ChatGPT. The company's valuation has skyrocketed. Here's what you need to know about buying shares in OpenAI.

OpenAI has attracted plenty of attention as a leading artificial intelligence (AI) company, driving innovation and shaping the future of this exciting technology. Its products and services like ChatGPT have become household names, and you might be wondering if it’s possible to invest in OpenAi and buy shares.

Unfortunately, OpenAI shares are not yet publicly traded or listed on a stock exchange. In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of OpenAI, the prospects of an OpenAI IPO, and alternative ways to invest and gain exposure.

How to buy shares in OpenAI when it goes public

Once OpenAI goes public, you'll need a brokerage account to invest. Consider opening a brokerage account today so you're ready as soon as the stock hits the market.

  1. Compare share trading platforms. Find a platform that suits your investing style. In this case, you might need a brokerage providing access to newly listed stocks. Narrow down top brands with our comparison.
  2. Open and fund your brokerage account. Create an account using basic personal details along with your ID and bank information. You can make a deposit with a bank transfer, credit card or debit card.
  3. Search for OpenAI. Find the stock by name or the ticker symbol.
  4. Buy OpenAI shares. Once OpenAI shares become available on your platform, decide how much stock you want to buy and create an order.

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What is OpenAI?

OpenAI is a leading research organisation and technology stock focused on developing AI solutions. Founded in 2015 by notable figures such as Sam Altman, OpenAI’s mission is to ensure that AI serves as a force for good. Its groundbreaking products include large language models (LLMs) like GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) and applications like the beloved and hated ChatGPT, which is already transforming industries from customer service to education.

What we know about the OpenAI IPO

We recently got news that OpenAI is preparing plans to file its paperwork for an IPO in 2026, with roughly a $1 trillion valuation, and hoping to raise about $60 billion.

According to Reuters, we could see OpenAI’s IPO take place in late 2026 or early 2027. There’s not been an official statement from OpenAI just yet, so we’ll have to see how this unfolds throughout 2026.

What is OpenAI’s valuation?

According to a Reuters report, Open AI was valued at $500 billion in October 2025.

When can you buy shares in OpenAI?

Currently, there is no fixed date for OpenAI’s IPO. Keep an eye on the news and our IPO calendar for the latest announcements from OpenAI relating to the stock going public. IPOs can take time to prepare, often years, and OpenAI may need more time to mature and develop before reaching this stage.

Alternative ways to invest in OpenAI

Although you can’t directly buy shares in OpenAI or competitors like DeepSeek right now, there are some alternative ways to get some indirect exposure to OpenAI and the broader AI revolution:

  1. Invest in Microsoft (MSFT). Microsoft is a strategic partner and significant investor in OpenAI, having committed over $10 billion. Microsoft uses OpenAI’s technologies, such as GPT models, into products like Azure.
  2. Invest in Nvidia (NVDA). Nvidia is one of the latest firms to pump money into OpenAI in an investment worth around $100 million. Nvidia will also be working with OpenAI as part of the “Stargate Project” recently announced by Trump that aims to create an AI collective in the US to collaborate in AI infrastructure.
  3. AI-Focused ETFs. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focusing on AI and technology can provide exposure to a diversified portfolio of companies leading the AI revolution. Some popular options include funds that invest in semiconductor companies, cloud computing providers, and AI startups.
  4. Competitors and Industry Leaders. Investing in stocks that compete or collaborate with OpenAI can also provide indirect exposure. These include major tech firms like Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Oracle, and Meta – all of which have significant stakes in AI development and applications.

AI stocks and shares similar to OpenAI

Stock 5-year performance (to Nov. '26) Link
NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) NVIDIA Corporation icon 191.56% Invest Capital at risk
Broadcom (AVGO) Broadcom icon 731.31% Invest Capital at risk
Micron Technology (MU) Micron Technology icon 1,210.65% Invest Capital at risk
Qualcomm (QCOM) Qualcomm icon 27.48% Invest Capital at risk
Analog Devices (ADI) Analog Devices icon 144.80% Invest Capital at risk
Teradyne (TER) Teradyne icon 194.63% Invest Capital at risk
Microchip Technology (MCHP) Microchip Technology icon -34.88% Invest Capital at risk

What is an IPO?

3:21

Bottom line

You can’t invest and buy shares in OpenAI just yet, but there are alternative ways to invest and get exposure to OpenAI, who’s LLM ChatGPT has quickly become the best thing since sliced bread (for some).

Be mindful that although there’s plenty of excitement around AI and AI-related technology, this sector is still in its infancy and we’re yet to see any major impacts these companies are going to have, most of the hype is still around its potential.

All investing should be regarded as longer term. The value of your investments can go up and down, and you may get back less than you invest. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. If you’re not sure which investments are right for you, please seek out a financial adviser. Capital at risk.


George Sweeney, DipFA's headshot

George is a deputy editor at Finder. He has previously written for The Motley Fool UK, Nasdaq, Freetrade, Investing in the Web, MoneyMagpie, Online Mortgage Advisor, Wealth, and Compare Forex Brokers. He's focused on making personal finance and investing engaging for everyone. To do this he draws from previous work and his Level 4 Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA), sharing what he’s learnt. When he’s not geeking out about money, you’ll find him playing sports and staying active. See full bio

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