Science
NVIDIA topped companies while Anthropic led AI performance
NVIDIA was the Largest firm by year-end and Anthropic's model topped performance rankings, valuing the firm at $1.75 trillion.
The same day, Anthropic's AI system was ranked as the best-performing model of the year. Anthropic also reached a valuation of $1.75 trillion by 31 December. OpenAI, Google Deepmind and Anthropic all remained domiciled in the United States or United Kingdom.
The ranking placed NVIDIA ahead of Apple, Alphabet and SpaceX, which had previously vied for the top spot. By the final day of December, NVIDIA's position was confirmed.
The figure reflected investor confidence in the company's technology pipeline. The valuation placed Anthropic among the world's most valuable firms.
In benchmark tests conducted through 2026, Anthropic's model achieved higher scores than those of OpenAI, Google and xAI. The assessments considered accuracy, efficiency and scalability. The results were published in industry reports released early January. The model's lead reinforced Anthropic's strategic position.
On Tuesday, 10 November, it was confirmed that none of the three firms, OpenAI, Google Deepmind or Anthropic, had relocated their headquarters outside the United States or United Kingdom before 2027. Their continued presence in these jurisdictions preserved current tax and legal frameworks.
Analysis
Anthropic's lead in AI model performance, as measured against OpenAI, Google and xAI, strengthens its bargaining position in partnerships, licensing, and talent acquisition. The fact that the three major AI developers kept their headquarters in the United States or United Kingdom preserves the current regulatory and tax environment, which may affect how new entrants navigate compliance and where future research investments concentrate.
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