SAM ALTMAN says he's ‘0%’ excited to be CEO of a public company as OpenAI drops IPO hints

Sunday, December 21, 2025 -OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has candidly admitted he’s “0%” excited about the prospect of leading a public company, even as OpenAI signals it may be preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) in the near future. 

Altman’s comments highlight the tension between the company’s rapid growth and the pressures that come with being publicly traded.

Despite the IPO hints, Altman stressed that OpenAI’s focus remains on developing safe and impactful AI technologies, rather than chasing short-term financial gains or stock market approval. 

Analysts note that taking OpenAI public could unlock significant capital for research and expansion, but it would also expose the company to intense scrutiny and shareholder demands.

The remarks have sparked debate among investors, tech experts, and the AI community. Many see OpenAI’s IPO potential as a milestone for the AI industry, while Altman’s lack of enthusiasm signals that the company may prioritize innovation over traditional corporate pressures, keeping its mission-driven approach at the forefront.