Anthropic, a prominent artificial intelligence startup, is reportedly making significant strides toward an initial public offering (IPO) that could materialize as early as 2026. The company has engaged the services of the esteemed law firm Wilson Sonsini to navigate the complex process, indicating serious intent for what could become one of the largest tech IPOs in history, the Financial Times reports. This move comes as Anthropic is also said to be pursuing a new funding round, potentially valuing the company at over $300 billion.
Sources indicate that Anthropic is diligently working through an extensive internal checklist to ensure it is fully prepared for its public debut. The involvement of Wilson Sonsini, a firm known for advising major tech companies on their IPOs, underscores the strategic and meticulous approach Anthropic is taking.
Beyond its IPO preparations, Anthropic is actively seeking to raise a substantial funding round. Reports suggest this round could propel its valuation beyond $300 billion, a significant jump from its last announced $13 billion Series F raise in September, which valued the company at $183 billion, according to TechCrunch. While discussions with investment banks are underway, Anthropic has yet to select an underwriter for the potential offering. Wilson Sonsini has served as an advisor to Anthropic since 2022, providing consistent legal guidance.
Anthropic's IPO ambitions emerge amidst a broader trend in the generative AI sector. Its competitor, OpenAI, currently valued at an estimated $500 billion, as reported by CNBC, is also reportedly exploring the possibility of an IPO. OpenAI has begun its preparatory work, Reuters noted, though no specific listing date has been suggested, highlighting a potential race among leading AI firms to tap public markets.
