OpenAI, despite having filed confidentially for an initial public offering (IPO), does not plan to go public this year or in 2026, according to CEO Sam Altman. In a recent interview with Fortune's editor in chief Alyson Shontell, Altman emphasized that the company is not rushing into an IPO. He highlighted that current concerns around AI safety make this an inappropriate time to enter the public markets. Altman stated that OpenAI will consider going public only when the business and societal conditions align with the technology's impact. When asked if this means the IPO would not occur in 2026, Altman confirmed that it is unlikely, noting that the company still has significant work ahead. Earlier reports indicated that OpenAI had engaged bankers and legal advisors aiming for a late 2026 IPO, but market volatility and financial factors have shifted expectations toward 2027. This cautious approach underscores OpenAI's focus on responsible AI development and readiness before taking the company public.