If you've ever wondered why every Big Tech company seems to have its sights set on OpenAI, you're not alone. According to a partner at Thrive Capital, Vince Hankes, the reason is simple – fear of new competition. In a recent episode of the "Uncapped" podcast, Hankes highlighted how established players in the tech industry are reluctant to welcome new challengers into their arena.
The Competitive Landscape: OpenAI in the Crosshairs
Big Tech's Defensive Stance
Hankes painted a vivid picture, describing OpenAI as being cornered while facing a barrage of threats from major tech giants. He emphasized that none of these established players are keen on adding a new heavyweight to the mix. It's like a high-stakes showdown where everyone is armed, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
Thrive Capital's Strategic Support
A Partnership for Innovation
Thrive Capital, led by Josh Kushner since 2011, stands as a significant investor in OpenAI, the brains behind ChatGPT. This venture capital firm has a diverse portfolio, backing groundbreaking companies like SpaceX, Databricks, and Stripe. Hankes underscored the importance of fostering healthy competition, especially when it comes to challenging the dominance of tech behemoths like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and others.
Embracing Risk for Reward
Investing in Innovation
While showing unwavering support for OpenAI, Hankes clarified that Thrive Capital isn't putting all its eggs in one basket. He stressed the unparalleled potential for returns that OpenAI offers, making it a compelling investment choice. However, he also acknowledged the importance of balancing risk and reward in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
In a rapidly changing landscape, OpenAI has been making strategic moves to solidify its position among tech giants. Recent developments, including partnerships and product launches, have further propelled OpenAI into the spotlight, intensifying its rivalry with established players.
OpenAI's latest initiatives, such as integrating apps into ChatGPT and empowering developers with an app software development kit, are reshaping the AI landscape. These bold moves have the potential to disrupt industry leaders like Apple and Google, signaling a new era of innovation and competition.
With groundbreaking deals like the recent partnership with AMD and plans to develop its AI chip, OpenAI is gearing up for a future where innovation and collaboration will redefine the tech industry's landscape.
As OpenAI continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, the tech world eagerly anticipates how this David-and-Goliath narrative will unfold. Will the underdog emerge victorious, or will the giants maintain their dominance? Only time will tell.
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By: sgoel@insider.com (Shubhangi Goel)
Title: Why Big Tech Companies Are Targeting OpenAI: Thrive Capital Partner’s Insight
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/thrive-partner-vince-hankes-openai-big-tech-competition-2025-10
Published Date: Thu, 09 Oct 2025 06:39:30 +0000
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