The public sours on AI and data centers as Anthropic, OpenAI look to IPO and tech keeps spending
Public sentiment is tanking on AI right as OpenAI and Anthropic gear up for IPO roadshows.

Why it matters
Shifting public opinion on AI and data center infrastructure could materially impact IPO valuations, investor appetite, and regulatory tailwinds for the two largest frontier AI labs entering the capital markets.
The key facts
6 to knowOpenAI and Anthropic both pursuing IPO paths
Public negativity toward AI increasing
Data center infrastructure facing public backlash
AI policy expected to be midterm election issue
Potential drag on IPO pricing and investor sentiment
Published April 15, 2026 — timeline appears speculative/future-dated
Go to the source
CNBC Technologycnbc.com
Publisher excerpt: Negativity around AI could be a drag on OpenAI and Anthropic as the startups look to go public, and will likely be a major issue in the midterm elections.