Elon Musk calls himself a fool for giving OpenAI $38 million that became an $800 billion company

THE DECODER / 5/2/2026

💬 OpinionIdeas & Deep AnalysisIndustry & Market Moves

Key Points

  • In week one of Elon Musk’s trial against Sam Altman, Musk described himself as a “fool” for previously giving OpenAI $38 million.
  • Musk warned about a potential “Terminator” future during court proceedings, framing concerns about advanced AI risks.
  • He admitted that xAI uses OpenAI’s models as part of its own AI training efforts.
  • The article suggests the most consequential developments in the case may still occur in later stages of the trial.

Elon Musk called himself a "fool" in court, warned of a "Terminator" future, and admitted that xAI taps OpenAI's models for its own AI training. Week one of Musk's trial against Sam Altman delivered plenty of drama; and the best may still be ahead.

The article Elon Musk calls himself a fool for giving OpenAI $38 million that became an $800 billion company appeared first on The Decoder.