With AI, investor loyalty is (almost) dead: At least a dozen OpenAI VCs now also back Anthropic
While some dual investors are understandable, others were more shocking, and signal the disregard of a longstanding ethical conflict-of-interest rule.
TL;DR
- Multiple direct investors in OpenAI have also invested in Anthropic's recent $30 billion raise.
- This dual investment pattern, particularly from VC firms, breaks with the traditional expectation of loyalty to a single startup.
- BlackRock's investment in Anthropic is notable as its board member also sits on OpenAI's board.
- The massive funding needs and high potential returns in the AI sector are contributing to this change.
- Sam Altman reportedly attempted to restrict OpenAI investors from backing rivals, but later clarified the consequences related to confidential information sharing.
- Some VC firms continue to adhere to traditional loyalty, investing in only one of the two AI giants.
- The practice of dual investment challenges VC claims of being 'founder friendly' and raises concerns about conflict of interest.