Cisco, UALink, and OpenAI Investments: The Future and Growth Scenario of AI Infrastructure
Conclusion: Disruptive Changes Created by UALink and OpenAI, and Cisco’s Leap Forward OpenAI’s expanded strategic investments and the growing market influence of the UALink consortium provide long-term growth momentum for Cisco’s data center business. OpenAI’s transition to a ‘Public Benefit Corporation (PBC)’ and the announcement of a large-scale infrastructure investment of approximately $1.4 trillion are leading to an explosive increase in AI workloads. As UALink, an 'open connectivity standard,' becomes mainstream in the evolution of AI infrastructure, network infrastructure flexibility and scalability are emerging as top priorities. With essential connectivity, security, and optimized network architecture becoming indispensable, Cisco is expected to benefit from both competition and partnerships. Background: OpenAI, UALink, and Changes in the Market Environment 1. OpenAI’s PBC Transition and $1.4 Trillion Infrastructure Investment Plan In October 2025, OpenAI transitioned from its non-profit parent to a ‘Public Benefit Corporation (PBC)’ that combines public benefit and profit, actively pursuing new investments and data center expansion. CEO Sam Altman unveiled a large-scale infrastructure investment plan of approximately $1.4 trillion, which corresponds to about 30 gigawatts (GW) of data center capacity. This scale, capable of supplying about 7.5 million U.S. households, signifies an evolution beyond a mere software company to an 'AI infrastructure utility.' ...