(plain text): OpenAI has reached a remarkable milestone with its valuation climbing to $500 billion, following a major secondary share sale involving employees and former staff. The artificial intelligence company behind ChatGPT has now surpassed the valuations of SpaceX and ByteDance, underscoring its rapid rise in the global technology landscape.

Massive Secondary Share Sale Boosts Valuation

The surge in valuation comes after employees and former staff members sold $6.6 billion worth of shares to investors. Among the participants in this transaction were prominent firms such as SoftBank and Thrive Capital. This large-scale secondary sale provided liquidity for shareholders while simultaneously signaling strong investor confidence in the company’s future prospects.

From $300 Billion to $500 Billion in Record Time

OpenAI’s valuation leap is particularly striking when compared to its previous figure of $300 billion. The jump to half a trillion dollars highlights the extraordinary pace at which the company is expanding. Few technology companies have managed such rapid growth in such a short period, placing OpenAI among the most valuable private firms globally.

Revenue Growth Strengthens Market Position

In addition to its rising valuation, OpenAI reported revenue of $4.3 billion during the first half of 2025. This financial performance reflects strong demand for its artificial intelligence products and services, including ChatGPT and related technologies that have become widely adopted across industries ranging from business operations to consumer applications. The revenue figures further reinforce investor optimism about long-term profitability and scalability.

Surpassing Global Tech Giants

By reaching a $500 billion valuation, OpenAI has now overtaken two of the most prominent private technology companies: SpaceX and ByteDance. This shift underscores how artificial intelligence has become one of the most sought-after sectors for investment, rivaling industries such as space exploration and social media platforms in terms of market value and growth potential.

The Broader Significance of OpenAI’s Rise

The company’s ascent reflects not only investor enthusiasm but also broader trends shaping the future of technology. Artificial intelligence is increasingly viewed as a transformative force capable of reshaping industries worldwide, from healthcare and education to finance and entertainment. OpenAI’s success story illustrates how quickly AI-focused enterprises can scale when supported by both innovation and capital investment.

OpenAI’s new valuation milestone marks a defining moment in the evolution of artificial intelligence companies on the global stage. With revenue momentum building and investor confidence at an all-time high, its trajectory signals continued influence over both technological development and market dynamics in years to come. Surpassing established giants like SpaceX and ByteDance further cements its role as one of the most valuable players shaping the future of innovation worldwide.