The ongoing rivalry between Elon Musk and Sam Altman intensifies as OpenAI’s CEO openly critiques Musk’s “insecurity.” Altman suggested that this insecurity played a significant role in Musk’s recent hostile attempt to take control of the AI organization.

The intensifying exchange between the two tech moguls saw Altman firmly state, “OpenAI is not for sale. Our mission remains unwavering and is not up for negotiation.”

In a conversation with Bloomberg, Altman remarked, “I suspect he operates from a place of insecurity, and I genuinely feel for him,” while expressing doubt that Musk experiences happiness.

Musk’s aggressive overture coincides with his efforts to thwart OpenAI’s transition from a non-profit to a for-profit entity, part of a federal lawsuit involving ChatGPT’s creator, significant investor Microsoft, and Altman himself.

Though Musk and Altman co-founded OpenAI as a non-profit in 2015, Musk departed before the organization achieved significant prominence in the tech landscape.

‘I Wish He Would Compete Instead’

Recently, a consortium led by SpaceX founder Elon Musk made headlines with a $97.4 billion offer to acquire the non-profit controlling OpenAI, further escalating tensions in his ongoing dispute with Altman.

Altman swiftly countered on X by saying, “No thank you, but we would be willing to buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if you’re interested.”

The ChatGPT creator also shared insights with Bloomberg during the AI Action Summit in Paris, indicating that Musk’s maneuvering appears aimed at undermining OpenAI. “I believe he’s likely trying to hinder our progress. He’s clearly a competitor,” Altman commented.

“I wish he would channel his energy into competing through innovation rather than resorting to various tactics, including numerous lawsuits and other unusual strategies,” Altman added.

Despite Altman’s robust reaction to Musk’s proposal, OpenAI’s board will ultimately play a role in determining the seriousness of the offer. Larry Summers, a director on OpenAI’s board, mentioned to the media that he has not received “any formal communication” from Musk regarding the bid.

It is important to note that Musk’s offer has the backing of his own firm, xAI, as well as support from several investors including Valor Equity Partners, Baron Capital, Atreides Management, Vy Capital, and media executive Ari Emanuel through his investment fund.

Meanwhile, OpenAI is actively working on a significant fundraising effort that could boost its valuation to about $300 billion, following a valuation of $157 billion last October.

In light of the tension between Altman and the OpenAI board, a complete restructuring of the board was initiated, now including former treasury secretary Larry Summers and investment banker Adebayo Ogunlesi as directors.