Among companies in urgent need of growth catalysts, ad technology giant The Trade Desk (TTD) stands out. The company has seen its growth rate steadily slow in recent years, leaving investors concerned about its long-term prospects. This unease stems from both intensifying market competition and the potential disruption that artificial intelligence (AI) technology may bring to its traditional business model. So far this year, The Trade Desk’s stock price has fallen 37%, and after a poor performance in 2025, its shares have plunged 68%, placing shareholders in a worrying position.
Recent market reports suggest that The Trade Desk is in talks with tech giant OpenAI about a potential collaboration. If an agreement is reached, it would not only represent a critical strategic alliance for The Trade Desk but could also open the door to further partnerships with other AI companies, serving as a significant catalyst to reverse its stock price downturn.
From OpenAI’s perspective, the company is under pressure to demonstrate its profitability. While its chatbot ChatGPT has gained widespread popularity, OpenAI is in urgent need of expanding its revenue streams in preparation for a possible initial public offering (IPO) as early as this year. Selling advertising is seen as a viable path forward. For The Trade Desk, a partnership with OpenAI would bring substantial growth opportunities.
However, risks cannot be overlooked. Reports indicate that OpenAI is also developing its own ad technology capabilities. Leveraging its advanced AI technology, OpenAI may no longer require The Trade Desk in the future. In a worst-case scenario, the two companies could transition from partners to competitors.
Even if a partnership is ultimately finalized, the additional revenue it generates for The Trade Desk may not be enough to completely turn the tide. In recent quarters, the company’s growth rate has continued to decline, raising questions about long-term demand for its ad technology platform. Against the backdrop of a persistently falling stock price, investors are struggling to find reasons for optimism. With competition intensifying, its growth rate is likely to remain under pressure. Unless more compelling positive factors emerge, The Trade Desk’s stock continues to face significant risk.
Meanwhile, OpenAI is nearing the completion of a deal to raise approximately $10 billion from venture investors, bringing its total funding in the latest round to over $120 billion. OpenAI Chief Financial Officer Sarah Friar confirmed that the company is seeking additional capital. This funding round is co-led by Andreessen Horowitz, Abu Dhabi investment firm MGX, D.E. Shaw Ventures, TPG, and T. Rowe Price, and is expected to close next week. It is reported that Coatue Management, Thrive Capital, and Altimeter Capital will also participate, with the valuation reaching approximately $730 billion (excluding new funds raised). Microsoft, an existing investor in OpenAI, will also take part in this round. Including the new funds raised, this round would value OpenAI at around $850 billion.
