Razorpay partners with OpenAI to bring ads to ChatGPT in India

Reports suggest Razorpay has teamed up with OpenAI in an effort that could enable Indian brands to advertise within ChatGPT. The collaboration, as described by Inc42, appears to build on prior ties between the companies and may represent OpenAI’s initial exploration of ad-based revenue in India.

This development comes as OpenAI reportedly pursues a private funding round that could value it at $1.2 trillion, a milestone that would depend on scaling revenue without undermining user engagement. Advertising could offer a significant opportunity, though it remains uncertain how such a model would integrate with ChatGPT’s interface or whether it would extend beyond enterprise use cases.

The partnership follows OpenAI’s broader push into India, including a recent multi-year deal with Sachin Tendulkar to promote ChatGPT for learning and personal projects. Meanwhile, the company has also introduced Dots, a feature allowing AI agents to operate independently within ChatGPT, signaling a shift toward more persistent, goal-driven interactions.

For Razorpay, the move could signal an effort to expand its services ahead of its anticipated public listing. The fintech firm, which serves Indian startups with payment and financial tools, has navigated regulatory challenges while maintaining a central role in the country’s digital economy.

What remains to be seen is how users might respond to ads in an AI chat environment. OpenAI’s valuation assumes it can grow revenue without disrupting engagement—a balance few platforms have mastered. If successful, the approach could redefine AI monetization. If not, it may prompt a reevaluation before OpenAI’s potential IPO.

Sources: inc42.com