Legal Definitions - initial public offering

An initial public offering (IPO) is the first time a company sells its stock to the public. It is also known as a flotation. The company must file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) before the IPO. This statement includes information about the company's financials, management, and business operations.

For example, if a company called XYZ decides to go public, it will offer its shares to the public for the first time through an IPO. The company will file a registration statement with the SEC, which will provide information about the company's financials, management, and business operations. Investors can then buy shares of XYZ through the IPO.

Another example is when a startup company wants to raise money to fund its growth. It can do so by going public through an IPO. This allows the company to raise capital by selling shares to the public.

Overall, an IPO is a significant event for a company as it allows it to raise capital and become publicly traded. It also provides investors with an opportunity to invest in the company and potentially profit from its growth.