{"id":37921,"date":"2023-08-21T19:18:18","date_gmt":"2023-08-21T19:18:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/?post_type=business-glossary&p=37921"},"modified":"2025-04-24T14:48:52","modified_gmt":"2025-04-24T14:48:52","slug":"initial-public-offering-ipo","status":"publish","type":"business-glossary","link":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/business-glossary\/initial-public-offering-ipo\/","title":{"rendered":"Initial public offering (IPO)"},"content":{"rendered":"
An IPO, or initial public offering, is a significant financial event that marks the first time a private company offers its shares to the public on a stock exchange.<\/p>\n
This process allows the company to raise capital by selling ownership stakes (shares) to individual and institutional investors. In return, investors become shareholders in the company and have the potential to benefit from its growth and success.<\/p>\n
Here’s an overview of the IPO process and its key points:<\/p>\n
1. Going public<\/strong>: When a company decides to go public through an IPO, it typically means that it has reached a stage of growth where it requires additional capital to fund its expansion, research, development, or other business activities. Going public also provides the company’s founders and early investors an opportunity to cash out some of their investments.<\/p>\n 2. Preparation<\/strong>: Before launching an IPO, the company needs to go through a thorough preparation process. This involves working with investment banks, lawyers, and financial experts to assess the company’s financials, valuation, market positioning, and regulatory compliance.<\/p>\n 3. Pricing and valuation<\/strong>: The company, along with its underwriting investment banks, determines the initial price at which its shares will be offered to the public. This price is often based on factors such as the company’s financial performance, industry trends, and market demand.<\/p>\n 4. Roadshow<\/strong>: Prior to the IPO, the company may engage in a roadshow, which involves presentations to potential investors to generate interest and educate them about the company’s business model, growth prospects, and financials.<\/p>\n