OpenAI Compute Spending Could Hit $600 Billion in 2030 as Revenue Target Tops $280 Billion

OpenAI has long spent heavily on research, development and computing capacity to build generative AI models and operate ChatGPT. As rivals including Anthropic accelerate their expansion, investors are focused on whether OpenAI can turn its rapidly growing user base and revenue into profits—a key consideration in assessing its prospects for a public listing and future funding needs.

Recently leaked audited financial documents showed that OpenAI generated more than $13 billion in revenue in 2025 but posted a $20.9 billion operating loss, about eight times the previous year’s figure. The company has told investors it does not expect to become profitable until 2030. It has also shut down some projects, including Sora, to concentrate resources and narrow its funding gap.

OpenAI’s capital needs have surged as it has continued investing in large models, AI chips and data centers since launching ChatGPT in November 2022. The SoftBank-led financing set records for a single funding round in Silicon Valley and the AI industry. It also reflects OpenAI’s push into the enterprise market and preparations for a potential IPO.

OpenAI announced in July 2026 that it had completed a $122 billion funding round at a post-money valuation of $852 billion, while monthly revenue had surpassed $2 billion. The proceeds will fund chips, data centers and model development. Some employees will also be able to sell shares through the transaction, and OpenAI tapped retail investors through bank distribution channels for the first time.