An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the process by which a privately held company lists its shares on a public stock exchange, allowing public investors to buy and sell equity for the first time. For private equity and venture investors, an IPO is one of the most visible exit routes, enabling them to sell their positions over time in the open market.
IPOs require extensive preparation, including audited financials, a prospectus filing, regulatory approval, and a roadshow to institutional investors. Major exchanges relevant to Alternatives.pe's coverage include the ASX (Australia), SGX (Singapore), IDX (Indonesia), and HKEX (Hong Kong). Many technology companies from Southeast Asia have dual-listed on the NYSE or NASDAQ for access to deeper liquidity pools.