OpenAI raises projected compute spending to $856 billion while cutting expected cash burn
Summary
OpenAI now projects $856 billion in compute and infrastructure spending through 2030—43% above its February target—while lowering expected 2026–2030 cash burn to $278 billion as partners help finance data-center commitments.
Key Points
- OpenAI's July presentation raises projected 2026–2030 compute and infrastructure spending to $856 billion, about 43% above the $600 billion compute target it gave investors in February.
- OpenAI cuts its projected negative free cash flow for 2026–2030 from roughly $305 billion in May to $278 billion in July while forecasting $350 billion in 2030 revenue, versus about $36 billion this year.
- Nvidia discusses guaranteeing $250 billion of data-centre debt, while SB Energy accepts $5.5 billion in OpenAI warrants for a 20-year lease, shifting infrastructure commitments onto partners.