WPP Explores Potential U.S. Stock Market Listing

CEO Mark Read cites U.S. growth ambitions, London market challenges, and AI investment plans as key priorities for 2025.

WPP CEO Mark Read has acknowledged the possibility of moving the company’s primary stock market listing from London to New York, though no formal plans have been made.
The London-listed advertising giant generates nearly 40% of its revenue in the U.S. and seeks to expand its presence in the American market under the Trump administration.
Read criticized the valuation challenges facing London-listed companies, calling for the UK government to address the issue, which he said is driving mergers, acquisitions, and delistings.
WPP plans to invest up to $100 million in artificial intelligence to enhance creativity and productivity across its agencies, with 2025 being a key year for execution of this strategy.
The company is facing internal backlash over a new return-to-office mandate requiring employees to work in-person at least four days a week, with nearly 20,000 signing a petition against the policy.