ChatGPT Maker OpenAI Reportedly Preparing For IPO Filing As Early As This Week

Last Updated:May 21, 2026, 12:39 AM IST

OpenAI plans a confidential IPO filing, targeting a possible September debut, amid legal disputes with Elon Musk and intense AI sector competition.

OpenAI plans a confidential IPO filing, targeting a possible September debut, amid legal disputes with Elon Musk and intense AI sector competition. (Image: Reuters)

OpenAI is reportedly preparing to take a major step toward becoming a publicly traded company, with plans to confidentially file paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO) in the coming days, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

The company behind ChatGPT is said to be working with investment banks Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley on a draft prospectus, with a potential stock market debut as early as September, the report said.

The move comes after OpenAI was valued at around $852 billion in a recent funding round, placing it among the world’s most valuable private technology companies.

A confidential filing would allow OpenAI to begin discussions with regulators before publicly disclosing detailed financial information — a common route used by major firms preparing for IPOs.

Also Read: ‘This War Is Not Over’: Elon Musk Vows To Appeal OpenAI Trial Verdict In Favour Of Sam Altman

The timing could make 2026 one of the biggest years for tech listings, with SpaceX also reportedly expected to file for an IPO soon, while AI rival Anthropic has been viewed as another potential public market candidate.

OpenAI’s IPO preparations come shortly after the company secured a legal victory against co-founder Elon Musk, who had challenged the company’s transformation from a nonprofit research organisation into a commercially focused AI giant. Musk has indicated he intends to appeal the ruling.

The report said CEO Sam Altman has been keen to move ahead with a listing, while Chief Financial Officer Sarah Friar has previously suggested more time may be needed before pursuing an IPO.

Despite strong investor interest, analysts say OpenAI faces several challenges before going public. The company continues to compete aggressively with rivals including Google and Anthropic in the rapidly evolving AI sector.

Investors are also expected to closely examine whether OpenAI can generate sufficient revenue to offset enormous spending on AI chips, cloud infrastructure and data centres, which are essential to training and operating advanced AI systems.

Questions around corporate governance and leadership could also remain under scrutiny following recent legal battles involving Musk and allegations surrounding OpenAI’s internal decision-making.

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