BAJAJ BROKING

Notification close image
No new Notification messages
card image
Oswal Pumps IPO is Open!
Apply for the Oswal Pumps IPO through UPI in just minutes.
delete image
card image
Start your SIP with just ₹100
Choose from 4,000+ Mutual Funds on Bajaj Broking
delete image
card image
Open a Free Demat Account
Pay ZERO maintenance charges for the first year, get free stock picks daily, and more.
delete image
card image
Trade Now, Pay Later with up to 4x
Never miss a good trading opportunity due to low funds with our MTF feature.
delete image
card image
Track Market Movers Instantly
Stay updated with real-time data. Get insights at your fingertips.
delete image

What is IPO: Full Form, Meaning & How it Works?

An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is when a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time to raise capital. This process transforms a privately held company into a publicly traded one, allowing investors to purchase shares and potentially benefit from the company's growth.

Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in the primary market have emerged as a popular investment opportunity, driving a surge in retail investor participation in the stock market.

How Does an IPO Work?

The IPO process involves several stages: from initial planning and regulatory filings to pricing, share allocation, and eventual stock market listing.

Initial Planning Stage

The company evaluates its readiness to go public, considering factors like financial performance, market conditions, and regulatory compliance.

Submission of Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP)

A preliminary document, the DRHP, is prepared and submitted to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for approval. It contains detailed information about the company's business operations, financials, and risks.

Choosing the Stock Exchange

The company decides on the stock exchange(s) where its shares will be listed, such as the National Stock Exchange (NSE) or Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

Investor Roadshows and Presentations

The company's management conducts roadshows to present the investment opportunity to potential institutional and retail investors, aiming to generate interest and gauge demand.

Determining the Issue Price

Based on investor feedback and market conditions, the company, along with its underwriters, sets the price at which the shares will be offered to the public.

Share Allocation Process

Shares are allocated to various categories of investors, including institutional investors, high-net-worth individuals, and retail investors, as per regulatory guidelines.

Official Listing on the Exchange

After the allocation, the company's shares are listed on the chosen stock exchange, making them available for trading to the general public.

Start of Public Trading

Once listed, the shares commence trading on the stock exchange, and their prices fluctuate based on market demand and supply.

Lock-In Period for Insiders

Certain pre-IPO shareholders, such as company insiders, may be subject to a lock-in period during which they are restricted from selling their shares.

Post-Listing Disclosures and Compliance

The company must adhere to ongoing disclosure requirements and comply with regulations to maintain transparency with investors.

Price Stabilization Phase

In some cases, underwriters may engage in activities to stabilize the stock price shortly after the IPO to prevent excessive volatility.

What is an Initial Public Offering (IPO)?

The full form of IPO is – Initial Public Offering.  It is a process through which a private company sells its shares to the public for the first time to raise capital. This process transforms a privately owned company into a publicly traded one, allowing investors to buy shares and potentially benefit as the company grows.

During an IPO, shares are made available to different types of investors, including institutional investors, high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), and the general public. The details of the offering, such as the number of shares and pricing, are outlined in a document called the prospectus. Once the IPO is complete, these shares can be freely traded on the stock market.

After the shares are sold, they are listed on stock exchanges, allowing for public trading. This listing enhances the company's visibility in the market and provides liquidity for investors, making it easier to buy and sell shares.

An initial public offering can be a transformative moment for a company, presenting new opportunities for growth and investment. It also allows early investors to realise returns on their investments. The process of an IPO is intricate and requires careful planning, but the potential rewards can be significant, establishing a solid foundation for the company's future. In summary, the full form of IPO represents a crucial milestone in a company's journey, opening doors to new possibilities.

The IPO full form in the share market is Initial Public Offering. An IPO is the first issue of a company’s equity shares offered to the general public to raise funds. It simply means the company dilutes a part of its ownership to raise the required money. These raised funds are used for various purposes in the company, like growth prospects, debt repayment, etc.

Additional Read: IPO Registrar List in India

Types of IPOs

In India, there are two main types of Initial Public Offerings (IPOs): Fixed-price IPOs and Book-building IPOs. Understanding these types is essential for investors looking to participate in the public market.

  1. Fixed-price offering

    In a fixed-price IPO, the price of each share is set in advance and disclosed to the public. This price is determined by the merchant banker hired by the issuing company. Investors know the exact price they will pay for each share, which can simplify the decision-making process. However, the downside is that it may not reflect the true market demand for the shares, potentially limiting the company’s ability to raise optimal capital.

  2. Book-building offering

    In contrast, a book-building IPO allows the issuing company to set a price band for the shares, which includes a floor price and a cap price. Investors place their bids within this range and the final price is determined based on the demand and the bids received. This method helps gauge investor interest and can lead to a more accurate reflection of market conditions. The flexibility of the book-building process often results in a more dynamic pricing structure, benefiting both the company and investors.

In summary, both types of initial public offerings have unique features. Understanding these can help investors make informed decisions. So, whether you are asking what is the full form of IPO or exploring investment options, knowing these types is crucial.

Yes, the IPO full form is the same - Initial Public Offering - in both cases. An investment bank provides underwriting services to the IPO issuing companies and is an intermediary between the company and IPO investors. It buys all or much of the IPO shares from the company and sells them in the market.

Additional Read: Mainboard IPO

Examples of IPOs 

Understanding the primary and secondary markets is essential for grasping how IPOs function. Here's a comparative look at both markets:

Notable examples of IPOs

Here are some of the most significant Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in history, showcasing their impact across various industries.

  1. Alibaba

    Alibaba’s IPO on Sept. 18, 2014, raised an impressive $21.8 billion, making it a landmark event in the technology sector. This record-breaking offering highlighted the company's rapid growth and ambitions, as it aimed to expand beyond China into international markets.

  2. SoftBank

    SoftBank raised $21.3 billion through its IPO on Dec. 10, 2018. This offering marked a significant milestone for the Japanese telecommunications giant, reinforcing its position in the global communication services industry and showcasing investor confidence in its diverse business model.

  3. Saudi Aramco

    Saudi Aramco set a new benchmark with its IPO on Dec. 5, 2019, raising a staggering $25.6 billion. This offering not only made it the largest IPO in history but also solidified Aramco's status as the world’s leading oil company, attracting immense interest from both institutional and retail investors.

  4. Visa

    Visa’s IPO on March 18, 2008, raised $17.4 billion, even amidst a global financial crisis. This remarkable achievement underscored Visa's robust market position in the financial services sector, as it facilitated an extensive number of transactions worldwide.

  5. AIA Group

    AIA Group raised $17.8 billion in its IPO on Oct. 21, 2010. This offering positioned AIA as the largest independent pan-Asian life insurance company, reflecting strong investor confidence in its growth potential across the Asia-Pacific region.

  6. General Motors

    General Motors made a significant comeback with its IPO on Nov. 17, 2010, raising $15.8 billion after emerging from bankruptcy. This event marked a pivotal moment for the iconic American automotive company, demonstrating its recovery and resilience in the competitive market.

  7. NTT Mobile Communication Network

    NTT DoCoMo raised $18.1 billion during its IPO on Oct. 22, 1998. This offering was notable for occurring during a challenging economic period, yet it solidified NTT's leadership in Japan’s telecommunications sector.

  8. Meta (formerly Facebook)

    Meta’s IPO on May 17, 2012, raised $16 billion, but it faced significant trading difficulties shortly after launch. Despite the initial hype, the stock experienced a sharp decline, highlighting the challenges of entering the public market.

  9. Enel SpA

    Enel raised $16.4 billion in its IPO on Nov. 1, 1999. This offering established Enel as a key player in the European utilities market, as it expanded its reach across various countries and strengthened its market position.

  10. ICBC

    The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China raised $14 billion during its IPO on Oct. 20, 2006, later increasing this figure to $21.9 billion. This landmark event marked a significant moment in the financial services industry, highlighting the bank's extensive operations and growth potential.

These notable IPOs highlight the diverse industries involved and the substantial capital raised, underscoring their vital role in shaping the global financial landscape. In exploring the full form of IPO and understanding what is the full form of IPO, it is clear that these initial public offerings have made a significant impact worldwide.

Aspect

Primary Market

Secondary Market

Definition

Where new securities are issued and sold to investors.

Where existing securities are traded among investors.

Participants

Company, underwriters, and initial investors.

Individual and institutional investors.

Purpose

Raise capital for the company.

Provide liquidity and trading of shares.

Example

IPO, FPO (Follow-on Public Offer).

Stock exchanges like NSE and BSE.

Role of Company

Direct involvement in issuing shares.

No direct involvement post-issuance.

Pricing Mechanism

Determined by the company and underwriters.

Determined by market supply and demand.

The primary market is a platform used by organisations to issue their shares to the public through an IPO. It is the first time the shares of that company are issued to the public. When individuals invest in IPO shares, they purchase them directly from the company in the primary market and receive them in their demat account.

The secondary market is where those issued securities/shares are listed on stock exchanges. After completing the IPO process, the shares are traded among individuals on stock exchanges using their trading accounts.

Who is eligible to apply for an IPO?

There are defined categories for IPO investors:

  • Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB)
  • Non-Institutional Bidders (NII)
  • Retail Individual Investors (RII)
  • Anchor Investors

Eligibility Criteria for retail investors are as follows:

  • Retail investors must be 18+ years old to invest in IPOs.
  • A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a must for stock investments.
  • You should have a demat account with a SEBI-registered stockbroker in India to apply online.
  • You should have a demat account linked with your bank account for seamless transfer and withdrawal of funds

Thus, these features of trading accounts enable traders to benefit from stock market trading.

Differentiate a Fixed Price and a Book Built IPO

Fixed Price IPO:

The share price is already determined before the company goes public and is mentioned in the offer documents submitted to the SEBI. Applicants pay the share price in full when submitting an IPO application.

Book Building IPO:

The company offers a bidding range to investors. Investors need to bid on the shares, and the company decides the final price later. These bids will be used to finalise the share price, and the price of an issue is discovered on the basis of demand in the market. The lowest price band is called the Floor Price of the IPO, and the upper price band is the Cap Price.

What is IPO Timeline?

Generally, an IPO issue is kept open for at least three working days and a maximum of ten working days. Individuals can bid for IPO shares within the decided price band during this subscription period.

Explain the process of closed IPO? 

After the IPO closes, the company needs to submit the final equity shares to be allotted to applicants and the final issue price. Then shares are allotted to IPO applicants based on the price quoted in their application forms.

Key Benefits of Investing in an IPO

Important Points to Consider Before Investing in an IPO

  • Early Investment Opportunity: IPOs allow investors to purchase shares at the offering price, potentially lower than the future market price, before the stock is publicly traded.
  • Potential for Capital Appreciation: If the company performs well post-listing, there is a possibility for share prices to rise, offering capital gains to early investors.
  • Participation in a Company's Growth: Investing in an IPO enables individuals to be part of the company’s long-term vision and expansion, including dividends or bonus shares if declared.
  • Access to New Market Players: IPOs often include companies from emerging sectors, giving investors exposure to new industries and innovative business models.
  • Increased Liquidity: Once listed, shares bought in an IPO can usually be traded on the stock exchange, offering liquidity and flexibility to investors.
  • Transparency and Regulation: Companies going public must comply with regulatory disclosures, providing investors with detailed financial and operational information before investing.

Pros and Cons of Investing in IPOs

Aspect

Pros

Cons

Pricing

Opportunity to purchase shares at initial offering price.

Initial pricing may be overvalued, leading to potential losses.

Information Availability

Access to company's prospectus and financials.

Limited historical data may make analysis challenging.

Market Volatility

Potential for quick gains if stock performs well post-listing.

Shares may be subject to high volatility after listing.

Liquidity

Shares become tradable on public exchanges.

Lock-in periods may restrict selling for certain investors.

Criteria for Offering an IPO

  • Financial Stability: Companies seeking to go public are generally expected to have a track record of consistent financial performance. This includes steady revenue generation, manageable debt levels, and, in many cases, sustained profitability over a defined period. Such financial metrics provide investors with greater confidence in the business's viability.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to all applicable laws and regulatory frameworks is essential. In India, this involves fulfilling the requirements laid out by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), including disclosures, documentation, and corporate structuring in line with listing norms.
  • Corporate Governance Standards: A company must demonstrate strong corporate governance practices. This includes having an independent board, internal controls, ethical policies, and clear reporting mechanisms, which contribute to operational transparency and safeguard investor interests.
  • Favourable Market Conditions: Timing plays a crucial role in a successful IPO. Companies often wait for market conditions to be conducive—typically during periods of investor optimism and overall market stability—to ensure healthy subscription levels.
  • Scalable Business Model: A company must present a growth-oriented business model that can be scaled efficiently across markets or segments. This includes identifying expansion strategies, market opportunities, and competitive advantages.
  • Minimum Net Worth and Capital Requirements: As per SEBI guidelines, companies are also expected to meet specific thresholds related to net tangible assets, operating profit, and net worth to qualify for listing.
  • Legal Structuring and Documentation: A structured corporate setup, including a clear shareholding pattern and legal entity formation, is a basic prerequisite.

Reasons Behind a Company Going Public

  • Capital Raising: Companies often launch an IPO to generate funds for business expansion, research and development, improving infrastructure, or reducing outstanding debt. This influx of capital can support long-term strategic growth.
  • Increased Visibility: Listing on a stock exchange can boost a company's public profile, enhancing credibility, market reputation, and overall brand awareness among consumers, partners, and investors.
  • Liquidity for Shareholders: Going public allows early investors, founders, and venture capitalists to sell their shares in the open market, thereby realising returns on their investments.
  • Employee Incentives: A public listing enables companies to offer stock-based compensation, such as ESOPs, helping attract and retain skilled professionals.

Key Factors That Influence IPO Performance

  • Company’s Financial Health: The financial stability of the issuing company plays a crucial role. Metrics such as revenue growth, profit margins, debt levels, and cash flow are closely analysed by investors. A company with consistent earnings and a strong balance sheet is generally perceived as more stable.
  • Market Sentiment: IPO performance is often impacted by broader market conditions. In bullish markets, investor confidence is typically high, which may result in strong demand for new listings. In contrast, bearish markets may reduce investor participation, leading to subdued IPO performance.
  • Industry Trends: The sector in which the company operates significantly influences IPO outcomes. If the industry is experiencing growth and investor interest—such as technology or renewable energy—IPOs in these sectors may perform more favourably. On the other hand, underperforming or saturated industries may face less enthusiasm.
  • Management Team: The experience, track record, and credibility of the company’s leadership team can affect investor confidence. A seasoned and reputable management team may be viewed as better equipped to drive future growth and navigate challenges.
  • Valuation and Pricing Strategy: How the company is valued and the pricing of shares at the time of the IPO matter to investors. If priced too high, investors may be hesitant; if priced attractively, it may increase demand.
  • Regulatory and Legal Compliance: Adherence to regulatory standards and transparent disclosures can also impact investor trust and, consequently, IPO performance.

Important Points to Consider Before Investing in an IPO

Investing in an IPO requires careful consideration of several factors:

Research the Company Thoroughly

Analyse the company's business model, revenue sources, financial performance, industry position, and future outlook. Reviewing the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) and past performance helps in evaluating whether the company has a sustainable and scalable business strategy.

Understand the Lock-In Period

Be aware of lock-in periods that restrict selling shares for a specific duration post-listing. These typically apply to promoters, employees with stock options, and anchor investors. Understanding this period helps assess short-term liquidity and potential price movements after listing.

Define a Clear Investment Strategy

Before investing, identify your investment goals—whether short-term gains or long-term holding—along with risk appetite and capital allocation. Assess if the IPO complements your broader investment portfolio, keeping in mind your financial goals and the company's potential to generate returns.

Conclusion

Understanding the IPO full form and its implications is crucial for investors looking to diversify their portfolios. The process of participating in an IPO can offer significant opportunities, but it also requires careful analysis and consideration of market dynamics. By staying informed and leveraging reliable platforms like Bajaj Broking, investors can make well-informed decisions and potentially benefit from the growth prospects of newly public companies.

Share this article: 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IPO full form in Market and IPO full form in Banking the same?

Answer Field

Yes, the full form of IPO (Initial Public Offering) in the Market and Banking sectors remains identical. Both refer to the process by which a private company offers shares publicly.

How many days does the IPO remain open for applications?

Answer Field

Typically, an IPO remains open for applications between three and five days. This window allows investors to apply for shares before the offering closes, depending on company policies and regulatory guidelines.

Is Investing in an IPO profitable?

Answer Field

Investing in an IPO can be profitable, but it also involves risks. While some IPOs have delivered impressive returns, others may not perform as expected. It's important to conduct thorough research and consider market conditions before investing in an IPO.

Who can invest in an IPO?

Answer Field

In India, individual retail investors, qualified institutional buyers (QIBs), and non-institutional investors (NIIs) can invest in an IPO. Retail investors must meet certain eligibility criteria set by the issuing company and regulatory bodies.

How to calculate the profit of an IPO?

Answer Field

To calculate the profit from an IPO, subtract the IPO purchase price from the current market price of the shares, then multiply by the number of shares allotted.

 

For example:

Profit = (Current Market Price − IPO Purchase Price) × Number of Shares

How to invest in an IPO at Bajaj Broking app?

Answer Field

To invest in an IPO via the Bajaj Broking app, follow these steps:

 

·       Log in to the Bajaj Broking app.

·       Go to the IPO section.

·       Select the desired IPO from the list of available IPOs.

·       Fill in the application form with required details.

·       Submit the application and ensure sufficient funds in your account for the application amount.

·       Confirm the application and await the allotment status.

How to know about the upcoming IPO?

Answer Field

Investors can stay informed about upcoming IPOs through financial news websites, stock exchange announcements (NSE and BSE), and brokerage platforms like Bajaj Broking. Subscribing to newsletters and financial alerts can also help keep track of new IPO listings.

How to Know about IPO allotment?

Answer Field

To know about IPO allotment, investors can check the status on the official registrar's website of the IPO or through the brokerage platform they used to apply. Additionally, updates are often sent via email or SMS notifications to the registered investors.

Is IPO profitable?

Answer Field

Investing in an IPO can be profitable, but it comes with risks. The profitability depends on various factors, including the company's performance, market conditions, and investor sentiment. Historically, some IPOs have provided substantial returns, while others have underperformed.

What is the IPO full form in the share market?

Answer Field

In the share market, IPO stands for Initial Public Offering. It is the process through which a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time, allowing investors to buy shares and thus become part-owners of the company.

As an IPO investor, how do I choose a price to apply at?

Answer Field

Investors can choose to bid at the cut-off price or specify a price within the given range based on their valuation of the company.

Who decides the IPO size and price range?

Answer Field

The company, in consultation with its underwriters, determines the IPO size and price range based on factors like capital requirements and market conditions.

Do the BRLM and Registrar have the same role in an IPO?

Answer Field

No, the Book Running Lead Manager (BRLM) manages the IPO process, while the Registrar handles administrative aspects like processing applications and allotment of shares.

On what basis are the shares allotted?

Answer Field

Shares are allotted based on the subscription levels in different investor categories, following SEBI guidelines.

My funds will be locked in for a fixed period once I apply for the IPO - is it correct?

Answer Field

Funds are blocked in your account during the IPO application process but are released if shares are not allotted.

How do IPO shares get listed at a premium/discount to the issue price?

Answer Field

Post-listing, share prices are determined by market demand and supply, leading to trading at a premium or discount to the issue price.

No Result Found

investment-card-icon

What is a Venture Capital-Backed IPO

A Venture Capital-Backed IPO marks a startup’s shift from private funding to public markets. See how it works and what it means for investors.

investment-card-icon

What is Back-Door Listing

A back-door listing is an alternative way for companies to go public. Understand how it works, along with its pros, cons, and impact on firms and investors.

investment-card-icon

What Is a Minority IPO & How Does It Work

A minority IPO, or partial IPO, is when a parent company sells a portion of its subsidiary through an initial public offering without full divestment.

investment-card-icon

What Is IPO Lock-Up Period

What an IPO lock-up period is, its purpose, typical duration, and how it affects stock prices post-IPO. Discover the implications for investors and the regulatory framework in India.

investment-card-icon

What is Primary Market

Primary market issuance includes IPOs, FPOs, and rights issues, providing companies with capital while giving investors access to new securities in the market.

investment-card-icon

IPO Lot Size

Curious about IPO lot size? It’s the minimum share limit for investors. Check its types, why companies set it, and how the maximum value is determined.

investment-card-icon

IPO Application Process for HNI Category Individuals

Discover how to apply for an IPO under the HNI category. Understand the non-institutional investor segment and explore various investor types in detail.

investment-card-icon

Fixed Rate Bonds

Fixed Rate Bonds offer steady interest returns. Explore their features, benefits, risks, and different types to make informed and secure investment choices.

investment-card-icon

What is IPO Full Form, Types, Examples & Key Benefits

IPO full form is Initial Public Offering .Know about how Initial Public Offerings (IPO) work, types, examples and important points before investing in ipo.

investment-card-icon

Difference Between NFO and IPO (NFO vs IPO)

NFO (New Fund Offer) lets you invest in new mutual funds, while IPO (Initial Public Offering) involves buying company shares. Know the differences for smart investing.

Disclaimer :

The information on this website is provided on "AS IS" basis. Bajaj Broking (BFSL) does not warrant the accuracy of the information given herein, either expressly or impliedly, for any particular purpose and expressly disclaims any warranties of merchantability or suitability for any particular purpose. While BFSL strives to ensure accuracy, it does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the information. Users are advised to independently verify details and stay updated with any changes.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without prior notice. BFSL shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided herein and shall not be held responsible for all or any actions that may subsequently result in any loss, damage and or liability. Interest rates, fees, and charges etc., are revised from time to time, for the latest details please refer to our Pricing page.

Neither the information, nor any opinion contained in this website constitutes a solicitation or offer by BFSL or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities, futures, options or other financial instruments or provide any investment advice or service.

BFSL is acting as distributor for non-broking products/ services such as IPO, Mutual Fund, Insurance, PMS, and NPS. These are not Exchange Traded Products. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read the sales brochure carefully before investing.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing. This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.

[ Read More ]

For more disclaimer, check here : https://www.bajajbroking.in/disclaimer

Our Secure Trading Platforms

Level up your stock market experience: Download the Bajaj Broking App for effortless investing and trading

Bajaj Broking App Download

10 lakh+ Users

icon-with-text

4.4 App Rating

icon-with-text

4 Languages

icon-with-text

₹5100+ Cr MTF Book

icon-with-text
banner-icon

Open Your Free Demat Account

Enjoy low brokerage on delivery trades

+91

|

Please Enter Mobile Number

Open Your Free Demat Account

Enjoy low brokerage on delivery trades

+91

|