Interview
What’s Driving the Latest Wave of IPOs?
- The IPO super cycle is projected to become the new normal, with large transaction averages predicted near $20 billion.
- December is expected to host four IPOs of this scale, a volume described as atypical compared to an average annual total of zero or one.
- Over a dozen billion-dollar-plus IPOs are expected in 2021, maintaining volumes similar to 2020 and the current year.
- Investors are expected to prioritize tech companies addressing evolving needs, with public markets continuing to reward growth and tech sectors.
- Business focus in 2021 and 2022 is expected to center on post-COVID normalization, distinguishing between entities that grew dramatically and those accelerating after challenges.
- Companies that paused IPO preparations during the pandemic are expected to restart as markets rebound.
- Innovation on paths to the public market is expected to expand next year through direct listings, SPACs, and improved IPO pricing data.
- Long-term drivers for tech value creation are expected to include the pace of innovation, the scale of tech businesses gaining market share, and the low interest rate environment.