OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has opened up about his decision not to take equity in the company, admitting he wishes he had done so earlier. In a detailed response posted on X, Altman reflected on his motivations and the misconceptions surrounding his lack of ownership in OpenAI, especially amid recent restructuring and speculation about a potential IPO. “If I were like a sports star or an artist or something, and just really cared about doing a great job at my thing, and was up at 5 a.m. practicing free throws or whatever, that would seem pretty normal, right?” Altman wrote. He emphasized that his drive comes not from financial gain but from a deep commitment to advancing artificial intelligence—particularly the pursuit of artificial general intelligence (AGI). Altman acknowledged that his absence of equity has fueled speculation and conspiracy theories. “I think it would have led to far fewer conspiracy theories,” he said. He criticized the perception that rejecting equity was tone-deaf, noting that saying “I already have enough money” only deepened confusion. “It was a crazy tone-deaf thing to try to make the point ‘I already have enough money,’” he admitted. The lack of equity has long puzzled observers. In OpenAI’s early days, the company was structured as a non-profit with the goal of advancing AI safely and responsibly, which led to Altman forgoing equity. Reports last year indicated that the board had considered granting him a 7% stake, but no formal agreement has been reached. Altman described the early phase of OpenAI as “unbelievably fun,” calling it the most important scientific endeavor of the generation. While the current phase is more challenging and emotionally taxing—“extremely painful,” he admitted—he still finds it deeply rewarding. “The chance to really ‘make a dent in the universe’ is more than worth it,” he wrote. He also reflected on how fatherhood has changed his perspective. After welcoming a child in February, Altman noted that while his kids will likely never be smarter than AI, balancing family life with intense work has become an “extremely hard trade.” Still, he remains committed. “I believe that AGI will be the most important technology humanity has yet built,” Altman said. “I am very grateful to get to play an important role in that and work with such great colleagues.” He concluded by reaffirming his desire for an engaging life: “I like having an interesting life.”