Global financial markets and investors in tech have their eyes firmly set on what could soon become a historic year for initial public offerings. The year 2026 is shaping up to be remarkable as some of the world’s largest private technology companies prepare to go public in stock markets. Experts now talk about a new class of tech giants known as “hectocorns” because of their potential to list at valuations above $100 billion. These listings could reshape global investment flows, influence how technology companies are valued and change the way investors see cutting-edge industries like artificial intelligence and space technology.
The anticipation comes at a time when global markets are holding near record highs, and demand for innovation-led growth remains strong. While some plans were previously delayed by regulatory and geopolitical challenges, confidence is rising that investors are ready to back big tech names as they seek public capital.
Table of Contents
The Big Tech Names That Could List in 2026
Among the companies drawing the most attention is OpenAI, the artificial intelligence firm that became a household name through ChatGPT and other generative AI services. Investors and analysts believe that if OpenAI goes public this year, its valuation could reach around $1 trillion, placing it in rarefied air among global corporations. The company has attracted funding from major global players and continues to expand its infrastructure and product ecosystem in response to surging demand for AI capabilities.
Close behind on the list is Anthropic, another AI specialist known for its Claude chatbot platforms and developer tools. The company recently raised large capital sums, which lifted its private market valuation to hundreds of billions of dollars. If it also decides to list, Anthropic’s IPO could send ripples far beyond financial markets and into how founders and employees think about wealth and purpose.
Space technology is also on the list of explosive growth industries. SpaceX has repeatedly pushed the boundaries of rocket launches, satellite deployment and space connectivity. Having reported valuations in the hundreds of billions of dollars, it is widely expected to seek public funding. Analysts expect the company’s debut on stock markets to attract a mix of institutional investors and retail traders, although questions remain about timing and geopolitical pressures.
Stripe, the global payment processing platform founded by Irish entrepreneurs, is another contender. After years of strong private fundraising and growth in digital commerce services, Stripe could pursue a listing that values it well above the $100 billion mark. Such a move would make it one of the most significant fintech IPOs of the decade.
Other Tech Innovators in the Queue
Beyond the headline names, a number of other influential companies are also positioning for public market listings if conditions remain favourable. Databricks, a data analytics and machine learning business, recorded strong revenue growth last year, and its markets are watching closely for listing news.
Canva, the design software company with hundreds of millions of users worldwide, has also laid the groundwork for public markets, though it has not yet confirmed when this will happen. The company’s move to register a US corporate domicile is widely seen as part of a long-term plan to tap public capital.
In the world of crypto and digital finance, Kraken has already filed paperwork to launch an IPO. While its valuation is currently below the $100 billion threshold, a successful listing would serve as a major boost for crypto infrastructure and exchange platforms seeking credibility in public markets.
Online banking services are also in the mix. Monzo, a digital bank with millions of customers, and Bolt, a mobility platform competing with ride-hailing giants, have both been preparing for public offerings. Outcomes in these listings will give important signals about investor appetite for fintech and mobility tech stocks.
Why 2026 Could Be a Turning Point
Investors have not forgotten the market turbulence of recent years, including previous government shutdowns and shifts in regulatory oversight. But confident market sentiment, driven largely by faith in technology-led growth, means that 2026 could be unique in how capital markets engage with start-ups and private firms.
Public listings of these companies could influence global investment trends for years. Smaller technology firms and investors looking to take part in the innovation economy will be watching closely. If the major listings go well, they could unlock new capital for next-generation tech ventures and change how public markets value rapid innovation. If they falter, analysts say there could be a reevaluation of risk, particularly where valuations are based more on future growth than current profits.
In many ways, the 2026 IPO pipeline reflects broader changes in global finance. Where traditional sectors once dominated stock market listings, today’s largest candidates are pioneers in artificial intelligence, fintech, crypto infrastructure and space exploration. For markets in Africa and beyond, this shift presents both opportunity and challenge as global investors chase growth but also weigh risk.
Looking Ahead
For business leaders and investors in Nigeria and across the continent, the emergence of these hectocorns highlights how fast the business of technology is evolving. As global capital flows into AI, software platforms and digital infrastructure, local markets may find new avenues for collaboration, investment and innovation.
While it remains to be seen which companies will successfully make it to the listing podium this year, one thing is clear: 2026 could redefine how the world sees technology investment and what it means to be a global tech leader.
Join Our Social Media Channels:
WhatsApp: NaijaEyes
Facebook: NaijaEyes
Twitter: NaijaEyes
Instagram: NaijaEyes
TikTok: NaijaEyes
