Palantir CEO Alex Karp Criticizes AI Token Pricing and Proposes Tax Changes on CNBC Interview

Palantir chief executive Alex Karp appeared on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” on Wednesday to discuss artificial-intelligence pricing models, regulatory proposals and geopolitical topics. He argued that enterprise customers are being asked to pay for token-based AI services that deliver little value and risk exposing intellectual property.

“Every single enterprise in this country is paying for tokens that create no value,” Karp said.

He also opposed ideas for a wealth-tax-style levy on AI firms, saying such measures would penalise businesses without benefiting low-income households.

“These people are creating a wealth tax that does not help the poor. It just punishes… every single person at this table is going to be paying a wealth tax only to punish us,” he said.

When host Becky Quick noted his tone, Karp responded that he was conveying “the voice of American business.” He further remarked that he had been excluded from the Democratic Party after warning against what he described as “far-left” positions, and he criticized both left- and right-wing extremes for misunderstanding technology.

Regarding Israel, Karp described himself as a strong public supporter while also acknowledging “legitimate criticisms.” He declined to elaborate on the issue publicly, citing the difficulty of discussing it in a televised setting.

The interview concluded with Karp indicating he felt uncomfortable and was eager to leave the set.