OpenAI Rules Out 2026 IPO as Altman Cites AI Safety Work

OpenAI will not pursue an initial public offering in 2026 as it continues work on artificial-intelligence safety, alignment and cooperation with governments, CEO Sam Altman said.

Altman indicated that 2027 could be the earliest window for a listing but did not set a firm date. “I would say not 2026,” Altman said, adding that going public now would be “an ill-advised moment” given current safety concerns.

OpenAI confidentially submitted a draft registration statement to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on June 8, beginning a potential IPO process without publicly disclosing financial details. The company said the filing does not establish when an offering would occur.

OpenAI said the confidential filing leaves open the possibility of an earlier listing and noted that some planned work may be easier to complete while the company remains private. Its official position remains that IPO timing has not been decided.