Gate.io launches Pre-IPOs phase 2 with OpenAI token via USDT and GUSD

Gate.io has launched the second phase of its Pre-IPOs program, introducing a tokenized OpenAI investment product that allows users to subscribe using USDT or GUSD stablecoins, the exchange announced July 13.

"The Pre-IPOs platform bridges the gap between private market opportunities and crypto-native capital," a Gate.io spokesperson said. "By tokenizing pre-IPO exposure to companies like OpenAI, we are giving retail users access to investment rounds that were previously reserved for institutional investors."

The OpenAI-linked token, designated OPENAI, functions as an asset certificate and perpetual pre-market contract tradable within Gate.io's pre-market infrastructure. Subscriptions require KYC verification and a minimum allocation of stablecoins locked during the offering window, with earlier and longer lock-up periods receiving priority allocation. Participants receive tokenized instruments rather than equity, meaning they hold no shareholder rights, voting power, or dividend claims — the tokens reflect speculative exposure to OpenAI's anticipated public listing.

The move marks one of the first instances of a major cryptocurrency exchange tokenizing exposure to a private artificial intelligence company valued at more than $150 billion. OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, has been widely expected to pursue an initial public offering, though the company has not confirmed a timeline. Gate.io's Pre-IPOs platform previously offered tokenized access to other private companies, and the addition of OpenAI could attract significant new capital inflows to the exchange as retail traders seek exposure to high-profile pre-IPO names. The token's price will fluctuate based on market expectations around OpenAI's valuation and listing prospects, with Gate.io warning that the instruments carry high volatility and no guarantee of future equity conversion.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.