OpenAI Revises Annualized Revenue Estimate Down by $20 Billion to $50 Billion

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OpenAI has informed investors that its annualized revenue is approximately $50 billion, significantly lower than a previously reported figure of nearly $70 billion. This adjustment affects comparisons with competitors like Anthropic.

Recent reports had suggested that OpenAI's annualized revenue was approaching $70 billion, a benchmark that positioned the company near parity with rivals such as Anthropic. However, new information disclosed to investors indicates that OpenAI's actual annualized revenue is closer to $50 billion, approximately $20 billion less than earlier estimates. The discrepancy arises partly due to differences in revenue calculation methods. Anthropic includes sales made by its cloud partners when calculating its annualized revenue, whereas OpenAI excludes such third-party sales. This distinction complicates direct financial comparisons between the two firms.

OpenAI has faced scrutiny regarding its revenue figures amid large investments, including a reported $122 billion raised during a funding round earlier this year. Financial documents leaked in 2026 revealed that despite generating around $13 billion in revenue, the company was spending substantially more in that period. These financial dynamics have contributed to the delay of OpenAI's anticipated initial public offering, which sources now indicate is deferred until early 2027.

While OpenAI had not publicly commented on the earlier $70 billion figure, this revision sheds light on the company's current financial position as it navigates rapid growth and market pressures. The clarification underscores challenges in transparent reporting within the AI sector, where diverse accounting practices and rapid scaling can obscure comparative analyses. OpenAI's investors and the broader market will be monitoring forthcoming disclosures, especially as the company prepares for its eventual public listing.