The New York Times reports that OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman testified in court that Elon Musk had wanted OpenAI to pursue a commercial path.

This testimony adds a critical dimension to the legal dispute between Musk and OpenAI. Musk, as a co-founder, had publicly criticized OpenAI’s shift to a for-profit model, claiming it strayed from its original mission. However, Brockman’s testimony suggests Musk himself had supported OpenAI’s commercialization.

The Testimony

Brockman took the stand to provide his account of early OpenAI discussions and decision-making. His testimony directly counters Musk’s central claim that OpenAI’s commercialization was not the founding team’s intention.

Broader Implications

The lawsuit centers on OpenAI’s governance structure and business direction. Its outcome could have profound implications for the future development of the AI industry and the commercialization pathways of non-profit research organizations.

On May 4, 2026, during the trial in Elon Musk’s lawsuit against OpenAI, OpenAI president and co-founder Greg Brockman disclosed nearly $30 billion in personal holdings and financial interests, revealing deeply intertwined finances with CEO Sam Altman.

Where the $30 Billion Comes From

According to court documents, Brockman’s wealth stems primarily from his equity holdings in OpenAI and related entities. The figure stunned the courtroom — Musk’s legal team repeatedly pressed Brockman on “why you are worth $30 billion,” to which Brockman was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation.

The New York Times reported that when Brockman was asked about his specific responsibilities in OpenAI’s day-to-day operations during testimony, his answers were evasive. The Verge noted that Brockman “does all the things, except answer a question.”

Financial Entanglement with Altman

Court filings revealed multiple layers of financial connections between Brockman and Altman, including joint investment funds, cross-shareholding arrangements, and undisclosed profit-sharing agreements. These disclosures further deepen outside concerns about OpenAI’s governance structure.

In a separate development, Altman has publicly warned that “AI washing” — companies exaggerating their AI capabilities for commercial gain — is a real phenomenon. Ironically, his own company’s governance transparency has now become the focus of scrutiny.

Musk’s Text Messages

The trial also revealed a key piece of evidence: text messages Musk sent to Brockman regarding a settlement proposal just two days before the trial began. The timing of this communication has fueled speculation about whether the two parties attempted to reach a private agreement before going to court.

CNBC had previously reported on the text exchanges between Musk and Brockman regarding settlement, and the court disclosure confirmed the authenticity of these communications.

Implications for OpenAI

This financial disclosure poses significant challenges to OpenAI’s corporate image and its ongoing IPO plans. Investors and regulators may demand stricter financial transparency and governance reforms.

Meanwhile, recent news that OpenAI missed its revenue targets has further intensified questions about the sustainability of its business model.

What Comes Next

The trial continues. Brockman’s testimony and financial disclosure are expected to serve as key evidence for Musk’s team in proving that OpenAI has strayed from its nonprofit mission. The final ruling could have far-reaching implications for corporate governance models across the entire AI industry.

Source: Reuters | NYT | The Verge