AsianFin -- OpenAI is in early discussions to conduct a multi-billion-dollar secondary share sale that could value the artificial intelligence leader at around $500 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.

The company is exploring a plan to allow current and former employees to sell their shares, marking a significant jump in OpenAI's valuation as investor demand for AI assets continues to surge. Existing backers, including Thrive Capital, have reportedly approached OpenAI to acquire employee-held stock, the people said, asking not to be named discussing private negotiations.

The talks follow OpenAI’s previous financing round, where the company was valued at $300 billion in a SoftBank-led funding deal. The sharp increase in valuation underscores investor optimism over OpenAI’s dominant position in the rapidly evolving AI market, despite growing competition and regulatory scrutiny.

No final terms have been agreed, and the structure of the secondary sale could still change, the people cautioned.