<p>An Initial Public Offering (IPO) marks the first time a private company offers its shares to the public, transitioning from a private to a publicly-traded company. This process is a significant milestone for a company, as it allows investors to buy and trade its shares on a stock exchange.</p>

<h2>How It Works</h2>
<p>An IPO involves several steps:</p>
<ol>
  <li><strong>Preparation:</strong> The company works with investment bankers to determine the number of shares to be offered, the price at which they will be sold, and the best time to launch the IPO.</li>
  <li><strong>Registration:</strong> The company files a registration statement with the securities regulator (e.g., the SEC in the U.S.), providing detailed information about the company, its business, and the terms of the offering.</li>
  <li><strong>Roadshow:</strong> The company and its investment bankers travel to meet with potential investors, presenting the company's story and answering questions.</li>
  <li><strong>Pricing:</strong> Based on investor demand, the company and its underwriters set the price at which the shares will be sold.</li>
  <li><strong>Trading:</strong> The shares begin trading on the stock exchange, and the company becomes publicly traded.</li>
</ol>

<h2>Why It Matters</h2>
<p>IPOs matter for several reasons:</p>
<ul>
  <li><strong>Fundraising:</strong> IPOs allow companies to raise significant capital, which can be used to fund expansion, research and development, or other business needs.</li>
  <li><strong>Liquidity:</strong> Once a company goes public, its shareholders can sell their shares on the open market, providing liquidity and making it easier for investors to buy and sell the stock.</li>
  <li><strong>Accountability:</strong> Public companies are subject to more stringent reporting requirements, which can enhance transparency and accountability.</li>
  <li><strong>Valuation:</strong> IPOs provide a market valuation for the company, which can be a useful benchmark for investors and other stakeholders.</li>
</ul>