Sam Altman says OpenAI’s top token spender uses 100 billion tokens a month OpenAI CEO Sam Altman revealed that while the company’s employees are known for high AI token spending, an individual outside of OpenAI spends even more. This individual is considered the world’s top token spender, which Altman described as an “embarrassment” for the company. The discussion highlights a broader trend where AI costs have become a significant concern for companies, contrasting with earlier in the year when it was not an issue.

• OpenAI CEO Sam Altman discussed the company’s highest AI token spenders at an enterprise event.
• The current top token spender at OpenAI uses approximately 100 billion tokens per month.
• Altman stated that someone outside of OpenAI spends more than their top internal user, calling it a personal “embarrassment.”
• The article notes OpenAI has a culture of high token spending, with employees sometimes sharing their totals on X.
• Some OpenAI employees have reportedly spent significantly more than 100 billion tokens in a month.
• Other companies like Amazon and Uber are tightening their AI token spending, with Uber setting usage caps.
• Altman acknowledged that AI costs have suddenly become a “huge issue” for companies, whereas previously it was not a concern.
• OpenAI is exploring ways to deliver more value for less spend. Continue reading https://www.businessinsider.com/sam-altman-openai-top-token-spender-ai-costs-issue-2026-6