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IPOs and new issues explained

What is an IPO, how are they priced and how do you apply?

  • WHY EQI?

    Open IPOs and new issues

    View current open IPOs and new issues

  • EQI EXPLAINS

    Fixed income investments explained

    Looking for a set rate of return? Think fixed income

  • EQI EXPLAINS

    Retail bonds explained

    A type of loan and are a way for retail companies to raise funds in exchange for a fixed rate of return

  • EQI EXPLAINS

    Complex financial instruments

    Further investment options for experienced investors

Be there from the start

An IPO is an Initial Public Offering, the first sale of stock by a company to the public, also known as a flotation on the stock market.

Why invest in IPOs?

The chance to get in on the ground floor of a company set for significant growth is what attracts investors to IPOs. Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba is one example. In 2014, its offering price was $68 and ended the day at close to $98 and it has reached highs of $195.

Not all IPOs succeed of course. Groupon’s offering at flotation in 2011 was $20 but a year later its shares were trading for less than $5. It is up to investors to exercise their judgement, research the company, its sector and prospects before committing to buy.

Whether the stocks perform well or not after launch, all investors benefit from zero commission and no stamp duty fees when they buy shares at IPO stage.

Popular articles

  • What about retail bonds and new issues?

  • How to apply for an IPO

  • How does IPO pricing work?

  • Register for free IPO alerts

    If you want to be one of the first to hear about IPOs and new issues, simply register for our free IPO service.

    To sign up, log in to your account, visit ‘My Profile’ and select ‘Communication Preferences’ and subscribe to the ‘New issues and IPO alerts’ list.

Which account is right for you?

  • Dealing Account

    For individuals or a group of up to four people, access global investments with this flexible, unrestricted account

  • Flexible ISA

    Invest up to £20,000 per year, take advantage of tax-free investing, and access your money at any time

  • SIPP

    Enjoy more control and access to a wider range of investment options and benefit from attractive tax advantages

  • Lifetime ISA

    Available for those aged 18-39, you can invest up to £4,000 per year and the government will add a 25% bonus up to a maximum of £1,000