Should I take my company public by direct listing?

Should I take my company public by direct listing?

What is a Direct Listing?

A direct listing is a process by which a private company becomes publicly traded on a stock exchange without an underwritten offering. The rules and regulations are similar to an initial public offering (IPO), but it does not require an investment banking firm.

Which companies should consider a Direct Listing?

A direct listing may be a good fit for companies that:


  • are a startup with minimal or no revenue
  • have a well-known brand name and can raise capital without an investment banking firm
  • don't need any capital in the short-term
  • primarily want to go public to complete acquisitions
  • primarily want to go public to use stock and options to accelerate recruitment
  • seek to position themselves as a public company for their next round of financing

Which companies qualify?

Any company can go public in the United States. We have even assisted startup companies in going public. However, it's important to understand the advantages and disadvantages before pursuing a direct listing. If you have a clear strategy and the ability to execute, a public listing can help accelerate and amplify your results.

Which stock exchange would a company trade on?

A company can list on any stock exchange it qualifies for, including NYSE, NASDAQ, OTC QX, OTC QB, and OTC Pink. We can also help companies list in Canada on the TSX-V, NEO, and CSE. Most of our clients list on the highest exchange they initially qualify for and up-list when ready.

Who raises investment capital?

Since there is no investment banking firm involved, all investment capital is raised by the officers and directors of the company going public. When we facilitate a direct listing, we help our clients comply with regulations that allow them to raise capital privately from personal relationships (friends, family, and business network) and, depending on the regulation relied upon, through a wide range of online and offline advertising.

What does a Direct Listing really cost?

The initial expenses for going public can range from $25,000 to $100,000, plus equity. With the initial investment, we assist clients in establishing a private placement to secure funding from friends, family, and business associates before the direct listing. This funding can then be utilized to pay for the expenses associated with going public. The total cost of a direct listing starts at $250,000 but varies based on the size and complexity of transaction and business.

Do I need an advisor to take my company public?

It's important to have a very experienced advisor to navigate the steps required for a private company to become publicly traded. We help entrepreneurs develop a go-public strategy, tap into our network to build the professional team, and manage the process to facilitate a direct listing, reverse merger or initial public offering. Our services help entrepreneurs take their company public so they can recruit talent, raise capital, complete acquisitions, and create significant wealth. Connect with us to learn more.

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