2026 Davos Forum AI Trends: Anthropic and OpenAI Redefine Global Power

The power balance in Switzerland has shifted. At Davos 2026, the real deals aren't happening in summit rooms, but behind the closed doors of AI 'houses'. As global leaders gathered for the World Economic Forum, the spotlight was firmly on the architects of artificial intelligence rather than traditional diplomats.

2026 Davos Forum AI Trends and Geopolitical Friction

This year, Anthropic emerged as the ultimate 'cool kid' of the Swiss mountains. Their exclusive events became the most sought-after tickets in town, with reports of high-ranking officials being turned away at the door. Beyond the social prestige, Anthropic's CEO, Dario Amodei, made waves by criticizing chip sales to China, positioning AI startups as major players in the real world of global security and trade policy.

Meanwhile, OpenAI confirmed a long-anticipated shift: ads are coming to ChatGPT. This move signals the end of the subsidized growth era and the beginning of a sustainable business model for generative AI. It's a clear sign that the industry is maturing, even as it continues to disrupt traditional search and information markets.

Silicon Valley's Midterm Maneuvers

While Donald Trump grabbed headlines with renewed rhetoric about acquiring Greenland, the tech sector was focused on more domestic matters. Tech giants are reportedly pouring millions of dollars into the upcoming U.S. midterms, aiming to influence policy on AI safety and regulation. This financial influx highlights the deepening entanglement between Silicon Valley's interests and Washington D.C.'s legislative agenda.