SoftBank Group Corp is seeking to secure a loan of up to $40 billion to finance a potential investment in OpenAI, according to reports. The proposed financing would represent one of the largest corporate loans on record.

The Japanese conglomerate, led by CEO Masayoshi Son, has been exploring various funding mechanisms to participate in OpenAI's growth as the artificial intelligence company continues to attract significant investor interest. OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has become one of the most valuable AI companies globally.

SoftBank's pursuit of this substantial loan underscores the intense competition among investors to secure stakes in leading AI companies. The firm has previously made large-scale technology investments through its Vision Fund, though this potential OpenAI investment appears to require financing beyond the fund's current resources.

The loan discussions come as OpenAI continues to expand its operations and develop new AI technologies. The company has attracted investments from major technology firms and venture capital companies, driving its valuation to significant levels in recent funding rounds.

If completed, the $40 billion loan would mark a significant commitment by SoftBank to the artificial intelligence sector and represent one of the largest single investments in an AI company to date.