With 2019 being the foretold “Year of IPOs,” understanding the interest and potential for profit is essential when considering the success of a company that goes public as well as the benefits for investors. When considering the prospect of investing in an IPO, determining the company’s potential is challenging with no public trading records available. However, there are a number of factors that tend to affect an investor’s choice, and while many of these contribute to investors’ decisions, it is important to recognize that some investments require taking a calculated risk regardless of any evident or lacking traits.
Reputable Underwriters
For those who understand the IPO process, the significance of a respectable underwriter can make an immense difference in the IPO’s potential. In the case of IPOs, an underwriter manages many of the transactions between the company and its shareholders; this responsibility often entails the underwriter purchasing the entire stock inventory of the IPO and selling these shares to the public at the established price. Additionally, underwriters help a company prepare for the IPO process, determining things like the desired amount of capital to be raised or the kinds of securities to be issued.
Investors should be aware of who is underwriting any given IPO; a reputable bank is often a good sign that the company’s shares are capable of producing positive long-term results.
Competitors
Many companies going public this year are primarily digital in nature, and while the technological field is still developing, these companies are hardly the first to enter the market. Before deciding to invest in an IPO, assess the success of the company’s competitors. If the competitors are performing well, there is a chance that the IPO will follow suit; however, the same scenario could also suggest an IPO will struggle to compete against prospering companies. Even though an obvious answer is unlike when comparing competing companies’ successes, doing so will grant investors additional insight into the nature of such companies in the stock market.
Realistic Projections
When a company goes public, the primary motivation for doing so stems from a need or desire for additional capital. Because of this, it is crucial that potential investors take time to carefully assess the performance of the company as well as the sustainability of its structure. If a company does not have evidence to support its lofty claims of a high valuation or other impressive numbers, investors may choose to opt out of such an investment.
One of the most important IPO investment tactics is simple: adhere to proven investment strategies and avoid companies whose promises seem too good to be true. In order to make the most of your investment, being selective and thorough in your choices will surely benefit you.