Better Potential IPO in 2026: SpaceX vs. OpenAI (ChatGPT)

Core Insights - The excitement for IPOs in 2026 is driven by potential candidates in new sectors, particularly AI, with SpaceX and OpenAI being notable contenders [1][9] Group 1: SpaceX - SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, focuses on building rockets from reusable materials to reduce launch costs and aims for lunar and planetary travel [4] - The company has developed low-Earth-orbit satellites for high-speed internet access, with Starlink having 9,357 satellites in orbit and a goal of 42,000 [5] - Reports suggest SpaceX could raise over $30 billion in an IPO, with a potential valuation of $1.5 trillion, following a recent secondary share sale at an $800 billion valuation [6] - Projected revenue for SpaceX is about $15.5 billion in 2025, with Starlink boasting 9 million active users across 155 countries, adding 20,000 users daily [7] Group 2: OpenAI - OpenAI's ChatGPT utilizes large language models for human-like conversations and can generate various forms of content, including images and code [8] - OpenAI is also considering an IPO, with potential valuations exceeding $1 trillion, although the timing remains uncertain [9][10] - ChatGPT is recognized as the fastest-growing consumer application, reaching 800 million active weekly users as of last October [10]