IPOs Demystified: The What, Why, and When of Going Public

What is an IPO, and why should your company consider going public—if at all? Is it the right move for your company’s growth?

In this episode of P&L, we explore one of the most significant milestones in a company's journey: the Initial Public Offering (IPO). An IPO can propel a company to new heights, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and risks.

To help us navigate the complexities of the IPO process, we’re joined by Bikesh Lakhmichand, CEO and Founding Partner of 1337 Ventures. Together, we delve into what an IPO is, when it might be the right time for a startup to go public, and how it compares to other exit strategies like mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

Key topics covered:

- What an IPO is and its role in a company’s lifecycle.

- Comparing IPOs with other exit strategies like M&A.

- Identifying the right time for a startup to consider going public.

- Benefits of going public.

- Risks and downsides of an IPO.

- The role of venture capital firms in IPO preparation.

- Timeline and steps in the IPO process.

- Impact of market conditions on IPO timing.

- Regulatory and compliance challenges.

- Common mistakes in the IPO process.

- Final advice for founders considering an IPO.