Elon Musk Sues OpenAI and Microsoft, Seeking Up to $134 Billion in Damages

American billionaire Elon Musk has launched a high-profile legal battle by filing a lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft, seeking financial compensation ranging between $79 billion and $134 billion. The lawsuit alleges a breach of the founding commitments of the company behind ChatGPT.

The case is based on accusations that OpenAI abandoned its original non-profit status and transitioned into a for-profit entity, alongside entering into a strategic partnership with Microsoft. Musk argues that this shift runs counter to the vision and principles upon which the organization was initially established.

A legal memorandum submitted on Friday by Musk’s attorney, Steven Molo, outlined the financial claims following a federal judge’s decision to deny a request by the two companies to avoid a jury trial. The trial is expected to take place next April in Oakland, California.

The lawsuit relies in part on an assessment prepared by economist C. Paul Wazan, which concludes that Musk is entitled to a share of OpenAI’s current market value—estimated at around $500 billion—based on his initial $38 million contribution in 2015, as well as his technical and advisory roles during the company’s early stages.