Razzak Jallow is the CFO of pre-IPO fintech company FloQast.
The IPO market began to show signs of life last year, and that momentum is expected to carry over into 2025. According to Renaissance Capital, IPO proceeds surged over 50% last year, powered by high-profile debuts such as Reddit Inc. and Rubrik Inc. Looking ahead, Renaissance Capital anticipates a stellar year for IPOs in 2025, projecting 155 to 195 new listings as the market stabilizes and returns to more typical conditions. Among the standout companies expected to lead the IPO charge this year are fintech powerhouse Stripe, European payments leader Klarna and AI chipmaker Cerebras.
As signs of an IPO recovery emerge in 2025, it’s important to recognize the broader impact of a successful public debut. When a company makes a strong entry into the public market, it generates optimism and inspires other ambitious businesses to embark on their own IPO journeys. A well-executed IPO not only benefits the company but also contributes positively to the broader economy.
As more companies gear up to enter the public market, here are four essential tips and best practices to help organizations strengthen their compliance processes, streamline IPO readiness and position themselves for a successful public debut.
1. Build the right team for the journey.
Before diving into the IPO process, assemble the right team to guide you through the experience. The reality is the IPO journey is a mix of exhilarating highs, unexpected twists and the occasional heart-pounding drop. So, surround yourself with seasoned consultants who have been around the block—experts who can offer insights into what to expect during the IPO journey, the post-IPO landscape and, crucially, the regulatory environment. These advisors will help position your organization for success during your IPO and well beyond it.
But it’s not just about the IPO itself. Your team also needs to be ready for the workplace shifts that come after going public. New rules, controls and heightened scrutiny can be challenging to navigate. Public companies face far more attention than private ones, and public perception can directly impact stock value. That’s why it’s so important to prepare not just yourself but your entire team for the changes ahead. With the right people and mindset, you’ll be better equipped to handle the transition and thrive in the public market.
2. Do your homework.
Before you embark on an IPO, you must roll up your sleeves and do your research. Start by pulling S-1 filings from other companies in your industry and studying them closely. Pay attention to the SEC’s comments and questions on those filings—they’ll give you valuable insights into what regulators are looking for and help you avoid potential delays.
But don’t stop there. Look into regional and national associations for educational opportunities and networking events that can broaden your understanding of the IPO process. And don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn—use it to connect with experienced financial professionals who’ve been through the IPO journey. Their firsthand knowledge can be a gold mine of practical advice and lessons learned.
3. Master compliance now to thrive later.
If you’re used to operating as a private company, the shift to being public will require adjustments. While you might be accustomed to monthly reporting for the CFO and board, as a public company, you’ll need to prepare quarterly financial statements and disclosures.
To make the transition smoother, start operating like a public company even before the IPO. That means tightening internal controls and documenting them thoroughly, establishing and enforcing approval hierarchies and getting comfortable with quarterly external reviews and annual audits. And don’t forget, SOX compliance audits will become a regular part of your yearly routine.
The good news is that technology can play a big role in getting you IPO-ready by supporting the ongoing reporting and compliance demands of being a public company. For instance, the right fintech software can help companies integrate compliance controls directly into their financial close and reconciliation workflows, ensuring that critical tasks are aligned with regulatory requirements. This kind of automation can reduce manual effort and minimizes errors, which is particularly valuable during an IPO when auditors demand precise and timely documentation.
When you demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability, you show investors that the information you provide is accurate and reliable. That makes your organization more trustworthy and, thus, more attractive to potential shareholders.
4. Lean into AI.
AI can be a game changer for accountants, especially during high-stakes processes like preparing for an IPO, where any mistake can be fatal. Automating routine tasks such as data entry, account reconciliations and financial statement preparation allows accountants to dedicate more time to strategic activities, like getting ready to go public.
During the IPO process, teams are often understaffed, overworked and struggling against tight deadlines. And this is where AI shines. Generative AI can process vast amounts of data rapidly, delivering insights and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. For teams grappling with labor shortages, AI serves as a critical support system, handling repetitive tasks and freeing up resources for higher-level responsibilities, like IPO readiness and audit preparation.
A New Chapter Begins
The IPO market is on the rebound, and for those who anticipate continued growth, it’s time to buckle up. The ride could begin sooner than you think, so prepare to seize the moment. As you navigate this IPO process, remember not to get bogged down in the details. Approach it thoughtfully and methodically, yes, but make sure you maintain balance and focus on the big picture. After all, this is just the beginning of your company’s public story.
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