OpenAI Presses AI Buildout, Eyes 2027 IPO as 40 of 41 Data-Center Votes Go Against Growth
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Nov 6
OpenAI Presses AI Buildout, Eyes 2027 IPO as 40 of 41 Data-Center Votes Go Against Growth
3 articles · Updated · CNBC · Nov 6
Summary
Sarah Friar said OpenAI will keep investing in AI infrastructure and continue raising capital, arguing customer demand remains strong despite a broad voter backlash against data-center expansion.
40 of 41 local ballot measures across 10 states either imposed restrictions or rejected pro-development proposals, reflecting concerns over environmental damage, higher utility bills and job losses.
OpenAI relies on data centers to train models and serve customers, and Friar said the election results do not materially change its plans; the company on Thursday issued a policy blueprint and commitments for future company-run sites.
Friar also said OpenAI still aims for a 2027 market debut after confidentially filing in June, while pursuing a new funding round at a $1.25 billion pre-money valuation.
The stance comes as investors grow more skeptical of the AI buildout after a sharp Nasdaq selloff, even as rival Anthropic races toward a mid-November IPO with $33.2 billion in nine-month revenue and $895.4 billion in infrastructure commitments.