When creating a company, likely the hardest factor to begin the process is raising the funds to expand. One of the most common ways to do this is through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Essentially the idea here is to offer the first sale of stock of a private company, to be purchased by the public. While large companies have been known to use IPOs in order to become publicly traded, more often than not smaller companies take advantage of this process in order to gain capital for expansion.
Typically in an IPO, or what some refer to as “going public,” about 10 to 15% of the company is offered up for sale. Because the organization allowing buyers some control over their company, many choose to work with an IPO firm who are well-versed in the process. These IPO services can help the companies decide what the optimal offering price will be as well as the best time to bring it to market.
The reason that IPOs are so effective when handled correctly by IPO firms, is because institutional investors can greatly benefit from the sale of stock as well. They are usually willing to buy substantial amounts of stocks before its debut on the open market. The hedge fund prime brokers and investment banks can end up providing the selling company with triple-digit gains just on the first trading day.
Before a company goes public, its almost impossible to buy shares because the owners are not obligated to sell no matter what sort of investment is being offered. Some companies choose to remain on the private route to avoid having to disclose too much sensitive information due to their lack of shareholders. Public companies, on the other hand, must follow strict rules and regulations such as having a board of directors to help make big decisions and financial reports given every quarter to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
If companies are willing to perform these required tasks, they can greatly benefit from investors offering the capital to incorporate a company. As the years have gone on, IPOs have become more common and have helped create some of the largest companies currently in existence. With 2015 expected to be the best year for IPOs since 2000, IPO firms will likely have their hands full.