AI, billions and the race to go public

Artificial intelligence companies including OpenAI, Anthropic and SpaceX are preparing for potential stock market listings in 2026, as investor interest in the sector pushes combined company valuations towards the trillion-dollar mark. President Trump has also decided against signing a planned executive order on AI regulation today, a move being closely watched by technology companies and investors. And Universal Music Group and Spotify have signed a new agreement around AI-generated music — including covers and remixes that imitate artists’ voices and styles — raising fresh questions about ownership, consent and how musicians should be compensated in the age of AI. (Picture: REUTERS/Kent Nishimura)