OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has reiterated his commitment to the cryptocurrency project Worldcoin amid reports that the company is seeking a $50 million funding injection.
Worldcoin’s mission is to establish a global identity and financial network, with over 2.6 million individuals already expressing interest in participating by having their irises scanned through the use of Worldcoin’s “orb” devices. In return for this biometric data, participants receive a digital ID and complimentary cryptocurrency.
Altman shared his perspective during a virtual Q&A hosted by FT Partners, a fintech-focused investment bank. This appearance followed recent coverage by crypto news outlet The Block, which disclosed that Tools For Humanity, the entity behind Worldcoin, was actively seeking $50 million in investment. The fundraising strategy involves selling the project’s crypto tokens at a discounted rate.
Altman emphasized the increasing relevance of distinguishing humans in a world heavily influenced by artificial intelligence. He stated, “In a world with a lot of AI, knowing who is human matters more and more,” highlighting the growing importance of uniquely identifying individuals as AI continues to play a significant role in our lives.
A spokesperson for Worldcoin has not yet responded to The Block’s report, leaving questions about the funding initiative unanswered.
It’s worth noting that Worldcoin has previously secured $115 million in a Series C funding round led by Blockchain Capital, with participation from a16z crypto and Bain Capital Crypto.
However, the project has drawn regulatory scrutiny, with authorities in the United Kingdom and Germany expressing interest in investigating Worldcoin following its launch in July.