OpenAI Discusses Adding Citi, JPMorgan to IPO Lineup

OpenAI is reportedly in discussions to add Citigroup and JPMorgan Chase to its roster of banks for a planned initial public offering [1][3]. These financial institutions could join Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, which are already working on the preparations [2][3]. The move aims to bolster the company's financial framework and credibility ahead of a potential public market debut [1].

Key takeaways

• OpenAI has discussed adding Citigroup and JPMorgan to its IPO underwriting team [1][3].
• Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley are already preparing the draft prospectus [2][4].
• Reports differ on the timeline, with some suggesting a filing within weeks and others targeting 2026 [2][3][4].
• The company achieved a post-money valuation of $852 billion following a recent funding round [2][4].

Expanding the Wall Street Roster

The discussions with Citigroup and JPMorgan are part of an effort to fill out the company's roster of underwriters, though these talks may not result in the banks joining the lineup [3]. Representatives for OpenAI, Citigroup, and JPMorgan have declined to comment on the matter [3]. The inclusion of these major banks is expected to provide substantial backing and industry trust, which are viewed as crucial components for a successful IPO [1]. It is likely that other investment banks will also end up working on the listing [3].

Conflicting Timelines and Valuation Targets

There is conflicting information regarding when the offering will take place. Some reports indicate that a confidential IPO filing is expected within weeks,