Last week at the London Stock Exchange, Cavendish, BDO, and Gowling WLG hosted a packed house to explore how an IPO can fuel the growth of ambitious businesses, as well as the key considerations for successfully planning and executing an IPO. With a strong turnout of growth companies, investors, and advisers, the discussions covered everything from financing options to governance, operational controls, and investor engagement.

Some standout moments from the event:

  • Lisa Gordon led a Fireside chat with Ben Dorks (Ideagen) and Tim Powell (Alpha Group International plc), discussing the public markets as a growth accelerator, and how critical their respective IPOs were in realising their business’ long term growth ambitions.
  • A Panel covering the investment landscape, moderated by Matthew Lewis, featuring insights from Natalie Bell (Liontrust Asset Management), Freda Isingoma (Octopus Investments), and James Taylor, CFA (M&G Investment Management). The message was clear; the market is open and investment is there for the right businesses and management teams. These investors want to meet more companies and actively encourage early engagement.
  • Finally, Giles Balleny led a panel on practical advice for IPO preparation and planning, with contributions from Jo Davenport (BDO), Charlotte Stranner (Dianomi plc, Elixirr International plc and EagleEye Solutions Group plc), Mark O’Neill (Amcomri Group plc), Sanjay Jawa (Kooth plc), and David Brennan (Gowling WLG).

We would also like to recognise the critical contribution from the conveners of capital and companies, the London Stock Exchange, who enabled the event to happen. Julia Hoggett, Marcus Stuttard and Tim Davis shared some very compelling data to support the global status of the UK markets, as well as providing reflections on progress already made and the opportunities ahead.

Emily Watts, Director of Corporate Finance at Cavendish, said:

“Today served as an excellent opportunity to connect ambitious businesses with capital, and based on the energy in the room, we are highly optimistic about the pivotal role capital markets will play in scaling the next generation of FTSE 100 companies. It was inspiring to see so many dynamic growth businesses actively exploring the public market route – so many, in fact, that the London Stock Exchange had to open its overflow room!

This morning’s event served as a timely reminder of the accessibility of public markets and the long-term support they offer management teams – not just in times of growth, but during challenges as well.

It’s a privilege to work alongside these impressive companies and leadership teams, helping them realise their strategic goals across both public and private markets. We look forward to engaging further with many of the companies there today. Please get in touch if you’d like to explore whether an IPO could be the right path for your business.”

For any enquiries or discussions, feel free to reach out to any member of the Cavendish team.