A new debate has emerged over Infosys’ missed chance to invest in OpenAI back in 2015. Industry experts believe this decision cost both Infosys and India a potential leadership role in artificial intelligence. Here’s how the clash between N.R. Narayana Murthy and Vishal Sikka shaped India’s AI story.
Introduction to Infosys missed OpenAI investment opportunity
The Infosys missed OpenAI investment opportunity in 2015 is once again under discussion after a LinkedIn post by CA founder Meenal Goel. The debate highlights how a disagreement between Infosys co-founder N.R. Narayana Murthy and then CEO Vishal Sikka may have denied the company — and India — an early lead in artificial intelligence.
Infosys’ Missed AI Bet in 2015
According to Goel’s post, Vishal Sikka envisioned transforming Infosys into an AI-first company. He proposed a bold $1 billion investment in OpenAI, alongside major players like Amazon Web Services, Elon Musk, and Sam Altman.
However, Murthy resisted the move, citing concerns about pay scales and company culture. The clash eventually led to Sikka’s resignation, and Infosys stepped away from the AI gamble. Today, that same investment could have been worth nearly $45 billion, underscoring the magnitude of the missed opportunity.
The OpenAI Stake That Could Have Changed India’s Tech Future
While global peers doubled down on AI, Infosys — and much of Indian IT — continued to rely on cost arbitrage and labor outsourcing models. Analysts argue that had Infosys stayed committed, it could have redefined India’s global tech image and emerged as a trailblazer in AI.
Goel wrote, “The missed alignment cost Infosys the chance to lead a revolution, not just follow it.”
The Buyback vs Innovation Debate
The discussion resurfaced after Infosys completed a ₹13,560 crore share buyback in September 2025, its first in three years. While the move rewarded shareholders, analysts are questioning whether the funds would have been better utilized for long-term technology bets such as AI, similar to what Sikka once proposed.
The irony, according to experts, is striking: while Sikka pushed for AI leadership, Infosys now prioritizes financial conservatism as the IT sector battles global macroeconomic pressures.
A Turning Point in Indian IT History
Sikka later advised OpenAI and consistently stressed that AI would revolutionize software development. Many now view Infosys’ decision as a turning point in Indian IT history, where risk aversion overshadowed innovation.
The broader question remains: Should Indian IT giants continue focusing on cost advantages, or must they take bold bets on emerging technologies to remain globally relevant?
FAQs on Infosys missed OpenAI investment opportunity
1. Why did Infosys miss the OpenAI investment opportunity?
Infosys stepped back due to differences between co-founder Narayana Murthy and then-CEO Vishal Sikka. Murthy preferred conservative governance, while Sikka pushed for bold AI bets.
2. How much would Infosys’ OpenAI stake be worth today?
Reports suggest the $1 billion investment in 2015 would now be valued at approximately $45 billion.
3. Could Infosys still lead in AI despite missing OpenAI?
While the company missed that early opportunity, Infosys can still invest in AI innovation, but it faces stronger global competition today.
Conclusion on Infosys missed OpenAI investment opportunity
The Infosys missed OpenAI investment opportunity is a reminder of how critical decisions shape the future of technology giants. While Infosys continues to be a global IT leader, its choice in 2015 remains a case study in missed innovation. For India, the episode highlights the importance of bold investments in emerging technologies to secure leadership in the AI-driven future.
Disclaimer on Infosys missed OpenAI investment opportunity
This article is based on publicly available information and expert opinions. It is intended for news and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or investment advice.
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