OpenAI proposes $300 equity stake for Americans as Treasury issues AI warning

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has resurfaced with a proposal that Americans should receive a share of the wealth generated by artificial intelligence. The plan, which Altman is reportedly discussing with lawmakers, would allow citizens to benefit directly from the company’s profits or from a broader tax on AI‑generated income. Altman’s own stake in the company—reported to be worth roughly $300 million—underscores the scale of the potential payouts and the level of influence he could wield in shaping the policy.

The proposal comes amid growing scrutiny of AI’s economic impact. OpenAI has reported record revenues in recent quarters, and industry analysts estimate that the sector could add trillions to the global economy over the next decade. Altman’s suggestion would create a mechanism for redistributing some of that upside to the public, either through a universal basic income‑style payment or a direct dividend tied to the company’s earnings. He has been in talks with congressional aides and tech policy experts to refine the mechanics and assess feasibility.

While the idea has sparked debate among policymakers, economists, and privacy advocates, no formal policy has yet been adopted. Altman’s proposal remains in the exploratory stage, and its eventual shape will depend on negotiations with regulators and the broader public’s appetite for a new form of wealth sharing in the age of AI.