2026-01-02 17:10:19

The patience of deep-pocket investors has its limits. When you're burning through capital at the scale that some AI giants are operating at—we're talking $115 billion incinerated by 2030 according to leaked projections—stakeholders eventually start asking hard questions about unit economics and paths to profitability.

OpenAI especially shouldn't mistake market hype for a blank check. The gap between theoretical value and actual cash flows is widening, and smart money doesn't stay patient forever. At some point, even the most bullish backers will demand concrete returns instead of promises.

This tension mirrors what we've seen play out in other high-growth sectors. The difference? AI is consuming capital at velocities we've rarely seen before.

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.

7 Likes

Reward
7
4
Repost
Share

Comment

0/400

MevHunter

· 15h ago

1. 115 billion burned, and investors still haven't seen any profit. This is a bit suspicious. 2. OpenAI, don't really think hype is your benefactor. You'll have to pay back sooner or later. 3. The cash flow and valuation are so far apart; no one can be infinitely tolerant. 4. After hyping for so long, finally someone dares to speak out. They should have asked why they're still burning money. 5. The speed at which AI is cutting leeks is unprecedented. Let's see who can hold on until the end. 6. Wait, is 115 billion really true? How much can they burn? 7. Hard power is hard power. No matter how good the hype sounds, ROI matters. Otherwise, it's just a game of pass-the-hat. 8. Smart money has already started to scrutinize, indicating the bubble is about to burst. 9. If this continues, turn around and invest in projects that actually make money. Don't believe in stories anymore.

View OriginalReply0

CodeZeroBasis