Friendship breakups can be complicated, but few involve as much drama and expense as the fallout between Elon Musk and Sam Altman, two prominent figures in the technology sector. On Thursday, a lawsuit by Musk against OpenAI concluded its closing arguments, with a jury set to deliberate next week. Musk claims that Altman and other executives “stole a charity” when they transformed OpenAI from a nonprofit research organisation into a for-profit company.
Both sides presented extensive evidence during the trial, aiming to show the other as untrustworthy. If the jury finds Musk was misled into donating about £38 million to OpenAI, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers could determine damages that might reach £150 billion. Such a decision could also prompt significant changes in OpenAI’s leadership and governance. If Musk does not prevail, the case might still influence regulators to reconsider OpenAI’s transformation into a for-profit entity.
Legal experts suggest that the losing side is likely to appeal, indicating that the conflict could continue. Witnesses at the trial raised questions about Altman’s honesty and judgment, leading to his temporary removal as CEO in 2023. A notable detail from the trial was the personal diary of OpenAI president Greg Brockman, revealing his internal struggles about whether the company should become for-profit.
As the trial revealed many surprising dynamics, it remains to be seen how the jury will ultimately decide and what long-term changes may result from this legal confrontation.
