Why are tech giants like OpenAI not in the S&P 500?

They fail to meet the financial viability and profitability criteria set by the S&P Dow Jones Indices.

Why S&P 500 Snubs Tech Giants Like OpenAI

Tech giants like OpenAI face an unexpected hurdle: rejection by the S&P 500. Why do these AI leaders struggle?

June 7, 2026 2 min read 0 views

Team collaborates during a business presentation with data on screen. — Photo by Fiqih Alfarish on Unsplash

Why S&P 500 Snubs Tech Giants Like OpenAI

The S&P 500 has tossed tech giants like OpenAI and Anthropic aside, which puzzles some given their market heft. But the reasons are blunt: these companies don't hit the financial and profitability marks.

Key Takeaways

S&P 500 requires profitability, shutting out tech giants.
$8 billion potential gain for OpenAI blocked.
$7.5 trillion in passive funds follow S&P 500.
Nasdaq and FTSE offer faster market entry options.
Financial viability screens remain unchanged.

The Financial Hurdle

Profitability is Key

S&P Dow Jones Indices sticks to its strict eligibility criteria: financial viability screens and a seasoning period (Ars Technica). No exceptions. This shows an unyielding focus on profitability. Even innovative tech firms like OpenAI and Anthropic don't make the cut because they aren't profitable yet.