Sam and OpenAI | DRAM Price Spike Shakes Tech Market
Edited By
Dmitry Petrov
Reports from late 2025 and early 2026 are confirming a shocking strategy by OpenAI, led by Sam Altman, that has led to significant DRAM price increases. Multiple industry sources reveal that OpenAI executed a massive procurement tactic that cornered a large portion of the memory market.
How OpenAI Locked Up DRAM Supply
On October 1, 2025, OpenAI signed separate agreements with Samsung and SK Hynix. Both manufacturers were reportedly unaware that they were entering into deals of similar scale, preventing them from realizing true demand levels. This strategic move effectively kept initial contract prices lower.
A Significant Portion of the Market
Analysts estimate that these agreements amount to around 900,000 DRAM wafers per month, constituting 40% of the global production capacity. By securing raw wafers instead of finished RAM sticks, OpenAI has made it nearly impossible for competitors to access these vital materials before they can be processed into chips.
"This sets a dangerous precedent for market dynamics," commented a leading industry analyst.
Immediate Effects on Prices
The immediate effect was palpable. As competitors scrambled to secure whatever inventory remained, panic buying ensued. Hardware manufacturers faced spot price increases ranging from 50% to over 150%, driven by fears of supply shortages.
OpenAI's Broader Strategy
This procurement effort is part of OpenAI's broader "Stargate" infrastructure project, aimed at securing long-term resources tailored for massive AI data centers. By consolidating their supply chain, OpenAI seeks to create barriers that hinder rivals from scaling their own AI hardware capabilities.
Mixed Reactions from the Community
The price hike has not gone unnoticed. People express varied sentiments:
Rising Costs: "RAM prices are stupidly high now; my old server skyrocketed in value," noted a frustrated server owner.
Supply and Demand Realities: Comments reflect a fundamental understanding of market dynamics, with some saying, "Congratulations, you have discovered supply and demand."
Criticism of Major Players: Observers have called the move "pure evil," highlighting the impact on individuals and small businesses.
Key Insights
△ OpenAI’s strategy includes locking up a staggering 40% of global DRAM supply.
▽ Competitors are engaging in panic buying, causing prices to surge.
※ "This sets dangerous precedent for market dynamics," said an analyst.
In a time of unprecedented demand for memory resources, many are left wondering: How will this strategy affect future tech development and pricing? The implications of OpenAI's tactics extend far beyond immediate price spikes, reshaping the landscape of semiconductor supply.
Future Price Dynamics on the Horizon
With OpenAI holding such a substantial share of DRAM supply, a strong chance exists that hardware manufacturers will continue to face significant price hikes. Experts estimate that shortages could persist well into 2026, forcing firms to either absorb costs or pass them on to consumers. This could lead to a downturn in tech spending as overhead increases. Additionally, if competitors fail to secure alternative sources, there's a likelihood that OpenAI will maintain its pricing power, fueling an ongoing cycle of inflation in memory prices. In a worst-case scenario, some analysts suggest a 30-40% contraction in the tech sector's growth as companies adapt to these new economic pressures.
A Historical Echo of Resource Control
This current situation bears a striking resemblance to the 1970s oil embargo, when Middle Eastern nations decided to restrict oil exports. Just as those moves sent shockwaves through global economies, causing prices to soar and forcing nations to rethink energy strategies, OpenAI’s tactics could compel tech companies to innovate alternative solutions or seek new partnerships. Both events underscore a common thread in economic history: when a crucial resource is cornered, the ripple effects can shift entire markets, pushing innovation in unexpected directions.