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What is an IPO?
An IPO is when a private company sells its shares to the public for the first time.
- Category Business & money
- Also called initial public offering, going public
- Updated 20 Oct 2026
IPO, explained simply
IPO stands for initial public offering. It is the day a company starts selling shares that anyone can buy on a stock market.
Before an IPO, only a small group owns the company. After it, the public can own a piece too.
This matters to you because big AI companies may go public one day. News about it can affect the tools and services you use.
For example, a company may do an IPO to raise a large sum and let early backers sell some shares. This is information, not advice about buying shares.
On ITG Now, daily AI news stories may cover when an AI company plans to go public or has filed to do so.
Related terms
Market capValuationFunding roundStartupAcquisition
Where you'll see it on ITG Now
Questions people ask about IPO
What does IPO stand for?
IPO stands for initial public offering. It is the first time a company sells shares to the public.
Is an IPO a good time to buy shares?
That depends on the company and on you. We don't give investment advice, so talk to a licensed advisor.
IPO vs acquisition: what is the difference?
An IPO puts shares on a public market. An acquisition means another company buys the company.