Anthropic confidentially files for initial public offering on US stock market

Anthropic has confidentially filed for an initial public offering (IPO) on the US stock market, marking a significant milestone in the competitive artificial intelligence (AI) sector. The company, known for its Claude chatbot favored by software engineers and business clients, has experienced rapid growth this year. While specific details such as the valuation and share offering remain undisclosed, Anthropic recently raised $6.5 billion in funding, boosting its valuation to $96.5 billion, a substantial increase from $38 billion in February. This move positions Anthropic ahead of its rival OpenAI, which is also expected to file for an IPO soon. The confidential filing allows regulatory review before Anthropic’s investor prospectus becomes public, a strategy increasingly common among major tech firms, including Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which is also preparing for a public offering with a valuation around $1.75 trillion. Anthropic’s IPO plans reflect the escalating financial stakes in the AI industry, where leading companies are racing to capitalize on advancements in AI technology and market dominance. The company has not provided a timeline for the IPO but is anticipated to go public as early as this fall, depending on market conditions. Anthropic’s rise from a lesser-known player to a leading AI startup has been fueled by the success of its Claude chatbot, particularly its advanced coding assistant products launched late last year. The company’s growth is not only technological but also political, as it has significantly increased its lobbying efforts, spending $1.6 million in the first quarter of 2026 compared to $360,000 in the same period the previous year. Additionally, Anthropic is involved in a high-profile legal dispute with the Trump administration concerning the use of its AI technology, underscoring the broader regulatory and ethical challenges facing the AI sector. The confidential IPO filing highlights the intensifying competition among AI firms to secure capital and influence as the technology reshapes industries and society. With Anthropic, OpenAI, and SpaceX all moving toward public listings, the coming months will be critical in defining the future landscape of AI innovation and investment.