Deciding to go public is an exciting step in a company’s evolution. An IPO offers a unique opportunity to transform your business, but can also present tremendous challenges. Read on for valuable resources to help you navigate the complex IPO process. And when you’re ready to begin, Deloitte can act as the independent adviser you need to help get you through it.
You have IPO questions, Deloitte has answers. Learn how our extensive experience and one-team approach prepare you ahead of time so you’re ready when the window opens.
of the top 30 IPOs
of all IPOs
of software IPOs
of financial services IPOs
On the surface, going public seems like a straightforward transaction. In reality, it’s a complex journey that requires planning, guidance, and a well-developed process.
See how Deloitte can provide guidance during the execution phase of your transformation to a public company. View the illustrative sample timeline below.
Deloitte’s IPO readiness services are designed to provide advice and recommendations before, during, and after the IPO. Our framework divides the process into three phases—assess, execute and thrive. We advise throughout the entire spectrum, from developing a personalized IPO readiness checklist through navigating the reporting obligations that follow the transaction.
Innovation is often woven into the fabric of any company considering an IPO. It’s what drives a team to excel and is a key competitive edge. This is also the case with the tools our IPO services team uses.
Footnote:
1includes US domiciled companies only and indicates activity and proceeds raised from 2021 through 2024.
The services described herein are illustrative in nature and are intended to demonstrate our experience and capabilities in these areas; however, due to independence restrictions that may apply to audit clients (including affiliates) of Deloitte & Touche LLP, we may be unable to provide certain services based on individual facts and circumstances.
The most valuable insights often come from companies that have completed the IPO process. These three challenges can slow down the IPO launch:
You have to be ready to close your books in a timely manner. Consider accelerating your close process now by taking small steps each quarter toward streamlining the process. Implement the appropriate systems, automate as much of the process as possible, develop and maintain a detailed close calendar, and hire experienced resources.
Implementing a top-tier enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is also critical. Choose your system wisely; for example, make sure it can scale and expand geographically in alignment with the company’s future plans. System implementations can be time-consuming and expensive, but they usually pay off significantly in the long run. Also consider upgrading systems for financial planning and analysis (FP&A), revenue recognition, customer relationship management (CRM), accounts receivable/accounts payable, etc.
Providing accurate forecasts as a public company is essential. Consider focusing on and stress-testing key metrics and other performance indicators now while the implications of a missed projection are limited. Removing metrics down the road can cause complications and create headaches. Furthermore, consider using the same metrics the company uses to run the business.
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Our IPO services professionals can offer companies a distinctive, personalized IPO readiness experience. Calling upon decades of experience, our teams can help companies avoid pitfalls and overcome obstacles, resulting in a timely IPO process and smooth transition to a public company. Our IPO professionals have:
Supported over 500 IPOs, with several professionals having individually supported more than 20 IPOs and Form S-1 related engagements
Provided accounting and reporting advisory services for several of the most dynamic, unicorn IPOs in recent years
Worked with a former assistant chief accountant at the SEC, who has reviewed more than 500 registration statements, and who continues to support our team
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Engaging with the Deloitte IPO advisory team was a crucial element of our very aggressive IPO timeline. Their ability to look around the corner and help us plan for “what is next” was invaluable to me. Since the IPO, they have continued to support our transition to operating as a public company. Their deep network of skilled professionals is imperative for any company looking to execute an IPO.
- Ashim Gupta, CFO, UiPath