Stripe clinches over $7 billion deal to buy AI firm OpenRouter

Stripe Inc. has finalized an agreement to acquire OpenRouter Inc., a startup that helps companies switch between artificial intelligence models, for more than $7 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. 

The deal, just months after OpenRouter raised money at a reported $1.3 billion valuation, underscores the demand from businesses to find the most cost-friendly AI solutions. It could also give Stripe, a payments processing firm, a stronger footing in the fast-growing artificial intelligence sector.

The final price for the acquisition could change. The discussions were described by people who spoke on condition of anonymity as the information is not public. 

A spokesperson for Stripe said the firm doesn’t comment on rumors or speculation. OpenRouter declined to comment. 

Founded in 2023, OpenRouter provides access to hundreds of AI models, with the goal of matching developers with the most efficient and affordable options for the job at hand. The New York-based company has attracted some of the biggest investors in Silicon Valley, including CapitalG — one of Alphabet Inc.’s venture arms — as well as Andreessen Horowitz and Menlo Ventures. OpenRouter has raised more than $150 million in capital to date.

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