In a new post, OpenAI warned against unauthorized investments involving SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles), which are used to pool funds to invest in startups. The company called on investors to be cautious if they are contacted by companies claiming to be able to provide access to OpenAI shares, especially by selling shares in an SPV. OpenAI explained that any attempt to circumvent share transfer restrictions would be unrecognized and carry no economic value for investors.
The report also noted that SPVs have become a popular way to invest money in AI startups, which has led to some criticism from venture capital funds. They describe SPVs as a way to exploit uninformed investors.
Finally, the sources emphasized that OpenAI is not the only one fighting this phenomenon, as Anthropic has issued guidance to investors to use private capital instead of investing through an SPV in upcoming rounds.