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| Metric | Value |
| Number of companies that went public | 1,034 |
| Notable companies that went public | Coinbase, Roblox, Rivian, Wise, Kuaishou, Digital World Acquisition Corp., ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., Adagio Therapeutics Inc. |
| Largest company that went public | Rivian (raised $11.9 billion) |
In 2021, around 1,000 companies entered the stock market through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), raising a total of $500 billion. This marked a record-breaking year for both the number of IPOs and the amount of capital raised.
Not all IPOs received equal attention, with some companies making headlines while others had a quieter debut. In this piece, we’ll take a closer look at some of the notable IPOs of 2021, examining their stock price movements and considering what these trends might mean for investors today.
Whether you’re new to the stock market or just curious, keep reading to explore these key debuts and what they could signal about opportunities for profit.
How 2021 Played Out for Stock Markets
Credits: CNBC
2021 had some big moments that moved stock prices around. Here are the main things that happened:
- The year started well as more vaccines rolled out and Washington approved more spending. But inflation started going up as things opened back up, worrying many investors.
- In January, GameStop’s stock skyrocketed thanks to individual investors online. This showed how regular people can really impact prices these days. Other companies like AMC saw big jumps too.
- Supply chain problems popped up everywhere as the pandemic exposed weaknesses. Things like computer chips were in short supply, hurting car makers and tech companies. This added to inflation.
- In September, an agreement between the US, UK and Australia on security made some nervous about tensions, especially with China. China also cracked down on certain industries like tech and education, unsettling investors.
- Towards the end, the Omicron variant surfaced and stocks yo-yoed as people wondered what new rules might mean for the global economy getting back to normal.
Even so, 2021 ended with major indexes like the S&P 500 way up – around 27% for the S&P. Most people stayed hopeful that vaccines and government aid would keep the economic recovery going despite the challenges. (1)
All in all, 2021 showed how world events like pandemics or what regular investors do can really move the stock market in big ways. A lot can influence prices on any given day.
Key Findings on IPO Dynamics in 2021
2021 was a big year for companies going public. A few things made it very busy:
- Lots more IPOs than usual – There were 1,034 IPOs, over double the number from 2020. That’s the most since the internet boom in 2000. Investors were excited to buy shares in new companies. (2)
- SPACs became very popular – Special companies called SPACs helped other firms go public faster and with less paperwork than normal. Over 300 SPACs had their own IPOs in 2021, raising $95 billion total.
- The stock market was doing great – Major indexes kept hitting new highs as the economy recovered from COVID. Companies and investors felt optimistic.
- IPOs happened all over – It wasn’t just US companies going public. Places like Europe and Asia saw a lot more IPOs too.
Some of the biggest IPOs:
- Rivian raised the most money, over $13 billion. Their electric trucks and SUVs attracted a lot of interest.
- Digital World Acquisition’s stock price jumped 371% after their IPO. Shipping company ZIM and drug maker Adagio Therapeutics also had big stock gains.
Certain industries led the way:
- Technology companies, especially software and finance tech, made up over a quarter of all IPOs and money raised. Healthcare, especially biotech and digital health, was also popular.
- IPOs came from a mix of areas like tech, healthcare, consumer services, and more.
While 2021 set records, later in the year some worried the good times might not last. New virus variants and a possible slowdown could impact future IPO valuations and timing. Overall though, 2021 was a standout year for companies going public.
Major IPOs of 2021
Several companies made headlines with their IPOs in 2021. Here are some of the biggest names:
1. Coinbase (COIN)
- Country: United States
- Stock Exchange: Nasdaq
- Industry: Finance (Cryptocurrency Exchange)
- IPO Price: $37.7 billion (deal size)
- IPO Date: April 14, 2021
Coinbase made some serious waves as the first major crypto exchange to dip their toes in the stock market. This opened the door for regular people looking to get in on the growing crypto scene without buying digital coins directly. By listing on the stock exchange, Coinbase gave people a new way to invest in cryptocurrencies through a company we all know – a pretty big deal!
Investors were super pumped about the IPO at first too. Coinbase stock shot up right away thanks to all the hype around crypto at the time. But things have changed since the heyday – prices for a lot of digital dollars are way more rollercoastery these days, and that’s dragged on Coinbase’s performance a bit. While the stock price has crept up from IPO day, it hasn’t exactly taken off like some thought.
A few things to know about Coinbase:
- They’ve got a huge member base that uses the site to trade all sorts of cryptocurrencies.
- The platform keeps adding new features to make crypto more approachable, whether you’re a noob or expert trader.
- But they’ve also hit some bumps with regulators, which could make future growth trickier.
Even with the ups and downs, Coinbase is still a major player in the crypto world. Their journey shows how traditional markets and newfangled tech can mix it up sometimes.
2. Roblox (RBLX)
- Country: United States
- Stock Exchange: New York Stock Exchange
- Industry: Gaming (Online Gaming Platform)
- IPO Price: $13.8 billion (deal size)
- IPO Date: March 10, 2021
Roblox made some major noise with its IPO, putting the spotlight on how huge online gaming is becoming – especially with kids and teens. The platform lets users build their own games for others to play, encouraging creativity and socializing.
After going public, Roblox’s stock price blew up as everyone got excited about the brand. Seems like tons of young gamers were flocking there, leading to more time spent playing and cash spent on cool extras. The huge returns since the IPO say a lot about how much its grown and appeals to people.
A few things about Roblox:
- Users get to design games themselves and make money from them, keeping new content always coming and people engaged.
- They’ve built a really tight online community where people connect and collaborate on projects.
- The company keeps improving the experience with new features and partnerships too.
Roblox’s success shows how online gaming is shaping entertainment for the younger crowd these days. With a solid plan and loyal fans, Roblox doesn’t look to be slowing down in the gaming world anytime soon.
3. Rivian (RIVN)
- Country: United States
- Stock Exchange: Nasdaq
- Industry: Automotive (Electric Vehicles)
- IPO Price: $11.9 billion (deal size)
- IPO Date: November 10, 2021
Rivian made some serious waves with its IPO, marking the biggest traditional debut on the US stock exchange since Uber. This impressive entrance put Rivian on the map as a major player in the electric vehicle scene. Investors were pumped to back a company looking to shake things up against the established carmakers with innovative electric trucks and SUVs.
Since going public, Rivian has caught people’s attention for focusing on adventure-style electric rides. Their R1T truck and R1S SUV seem to be popular, appealing to customers wanting eco-friendly options that fit an active lifestyle. Rivian’s solid branding and commitment to sustainability resonate with lots of potential buyers.
A few things about Rivian:
- A unique design and functionality that sets its vehicles apart from the competition.
- An expanding network of charging stations that supports customers on the road.
- Big investments from companies like Amazon, which has ordered thousands of delivery vans, boosting Rivian’s credibility and market presence.
Rivian’s journey reflects the changing attitudes toward electric vehicles. As more people consider EVs for their next purchase, Rivian’s ability to deliver promises will be key to future growth.
4. Wise (WIZEY)
- Country: United Kingdom
- Stock Exchange: Nasdaq
- Industry: Financial Services
- IPO Price: $12.2 billion (deal size)
- IPO Date: July 7, 2021
Wise focuses on making international money transfers easier and more affordable. Since going public, however, the stock price has taken a bit of a hit, declining about 14%. Despite its important mission, Wise faces competition in a crowded market.
The company allows people to send cash across borders with low fees, which is a big draw. Its platform simplifies converting currencies too, making it popular for those regularly sending money abroad. Wise has built a loyal customer base, but outside factors have affected its stock price.
A few key things about Wise:
- It provides upfront clarity on fees, a major selling point for users.
- The platform has grown popular, especially among expats and freelancers dealing with multiple currencies.
- Swings in the market and economic uncertainty have impacted its financial results, leading to the dip in stock price.
While Wise has a solid concept, it’ll need to adapt to changing conditions to regain momentum. Investors will be watching closely to see how the company handles challenges and keeps growing.
5. Kuaishou (KSHTY)
- Country: China
- Stock Exchange: Hong Kong Stock Exchange
- Industry: Social Media
- IPO Price: $6.2 billion (deal size)
- IPO Date: February 5, 2021
Kuaishou’s IPO was a big deal in the competitive world of social media and video sharing apps. Launched in 2021, it aimed to go toe-to-toe with industry heavyweights like TikTok. The company lets users create and share short clips, making it popular among young people in China and beyond.
Despite the early hype, Kuaishou’s stock price has struggled a bit, showing a decline of 28% since the debut. This downturn highlights the fierce competition in the industry. Other platforms are constantly battling for people’s attention and market share. While Kuaishou has a loyal following, it faces challenges standing out from the crowd.
A few things about Kuaishou:
- Its focus on user-generated content encourages creativity and community involvement.
- The platform has tailored features to local tastes, becoming a fave in certain regions.
- Kuaishou’s revenue strategies like ads and partnerships are crucial for future growth.
Investors remain wary, watching how Kuaishou adapts to changing markets and competition. The future depends on innovating to attract new users while keeping current ones engaged.
6. Digital World Acquisition Corp. (DWAC)
- Country: United States
- Stock Exchange: Nasdaq
- Industry: Social Media
- IPO Price: $10
- IPO Date: December 2, 2021
Digital World Acquisition Corp had an IPO price of $10 but by December 2nd, 2021 the return was an impressive 371.1%! This special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) got attention due to connecting with Trump Media & Technology Group. The plan was for them to merge and create an alternative social media platform focused on free speech.
The hype around DWAC’s IPO came from the promise of joining a crowded space. Lots of investors were eager to back a platform looking to challenge the big social media giants. This enthusiasm likely contributed to its fast price increase after the IPO.
A few things about DWAC:
- Strong investor interest, fueled by political and social issues.
- Potential for lots of user involvement as it tries to attract people unsatisfied with other options.
- Ongoing price fluctuations based on the bigger economy and political climate too.
Even with the dramatic rise, DWAC’s future is still unclear. Investors will keep a close eye on how the merger goes and if the platform can keep momentum in such competitive markets.
7. ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd.
- Country: Israel
- Stock Exchange: Nasdaq
- Industry: Shipping
- IPO Price: $15
- IPO Date: January 28, 2021
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd had an IPO price of $15 but returns reached a crazy 265.5%! This Israeli shipping company offers container shipping all over the globe. Their IPO came at a time when shipping demand was booming, making them look very attractive.
ZIM’s success reflects how much the need is growing for shipping and logistics services as worldwide trade expands. The company focuses on efficiency and customer service, which helps them stand out in the crowded market. Strong financial performance and an expanding fleet contribute to their impressive returns since going public.
A few key things about ZIM:
- A solid business model that benefits from high demand in the shipping industry right now.
- Strategic investments in tech to improve operations and customer experience.
- The ability to adapt to changing markets, ensuring continued growth.
With a strong foundation, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services seems well positioned in the shipping world. Investors will be looking for ongoing growth and strong finances in the coming years.
8. Adagio Therapeutics Inc.
- Country: United States
- Stock Exchange: Nasdaq
- Industry: Biotechnology
- IPO Price: $17
- IPO Date: June 24, 2021
Adagio Therapeutics Inc. launched with an IPO price of $17 and achieved returns of 173.5%! The company focuses on developing treatments for infectious diseases, including COVID-19 meds. Their mission to help urgent health issues attracted lots of investor interest.
The demand for effective treatments during the pandemic put Adagio on the map. Investors recognized potential for big returns as the company worked to bring innovative therapies to patients. Adagio’s research pipeline is key to future success, as they aim to develop solutions that can respond to emerging health threats.
A few things about Adagio:
- A commitment to scientific research, with goals of advancing healthcare.
- Partnerships with research institutes and healthcare providers to enhance development efforts.
- The need for ongoing funding to support research and clinical trials, crucial for long-term success.
As Adagio continues down the road, investors will watch their progress making effective treatments and ability to handle challenges in the biotech industry.
Conclusion
2021 really shook things up for companies entering the stock market, with tons going public and raking in huge amounts of cash. Some did amazing after launching, but others had a harder time after the early hype died down. The trends from this year will probably shape how businesses approach IPOs going forward. Investors will definitely be keeping a close eye on everything as this market continues changing.
FAQ
What made 2021 a hot IPO market for companies going public?
The combination of low interest rates, strong revenue growth, and high valuations in public markets created ideal conditions for companies to make their public debut. Wall Street saw record numbers of initial public offerings, particularly from tech IPOs and consumer brands.
How did companies like Warby Parker and Rent the Runway approach their public offerings?
While some companies chose traditional initial public offerings, others like Warby Parker opted for a direct listing to go publicly traded. Rent the Runway’s path to wall street highlighted how private companies can transition to public markets without the traditional IPO process.
What happened with Didi Global’s Hong Kong listing?
Didi Global’s public debut faced challenges due to regulatory scrutiny from the securities and exchange commission, affecting its share price and market capitalization. The situation impacted other anticipated IPOs from global holdings companies considering listings in Hong Kong.
How did supply chain issues affect IPOs like Dutch Bros and Mattress Firm?
Supply chain disruptions impacted many companies’ initial public offerings, including Dutch Bros and Mattress Firm. These challenges affected their net income and listing price, forcing companies to adjust their market expectations.
What role did private equity play in taking companies public?
Private equity firms helped prepare companies like Honest Company for their public offering. They focused on revenue growth and market cap potential before helping private companies navigate the path to becoming publicly traded. Many chief executives worked closely with these firms to time their public debut.
What happened to Robinhood Markets and Impossible Foods?
Robinhood Markets attracted attention from global consumer investors, while Impossible Foods remained one of the most anticipated IPOs. Both companies’ autorenew packs and share prices reflected broader market trends despite different paths to their public offerings.
1,034 Companies that Went Public (Displayed Partially)
| IPO Date | Symbol | Company Name | Stock Exchange |
| Dec 30, 2021 | GMFI | Aetherium Acquisition Corp. | – |
| Dec 28, 2021 | WTMA | Welsbach Technology Metals Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 27, 2021 | AOGO | Arogo Capital Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 22, 2021 | GDNR | Gardiner Healthcare Acquisitions Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 22, 2021 | NXGL | NEXGEL, Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 21, 2021 | SAGA | Sagaliam Acquisition Corp. | – |
| Dec 21, 2021 | LSPR | Larkspur Health Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 21, 2021 | NVAC | NorthView Acquisition Corporation | NASDAQ |
| Dec 17, 2021 | APCA | AP Acquisition Corp. | NYSE |
| Dec 17, 2021 | RCAC | Revelstone Capital Acquisition Corp. | OTCMKTS |
| Dec 16, 2021 | SANG | Sangoma Technologies Corporation | NASDAQ |
| Dec 16, 2021 | FLD | FTAC Emerald Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 16, 2021 | CFFS | CF Acquisition Corp. VII | NASDAQ |
| Dec 16, 2021 | SHAP | Spree Acquisition Corp. 1 Limited | NYSE |
| Dec 16, 2021 | IMMX | Immix Biopharma, Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 16, 2021 | ADRT | Ault Disruptive Technologies Corporation | NYSEAMERICAN |
| Dec 16, 2021 | BNOX | Bionomics Limited | NASDAQ |
| Dec 15, 2021 | IOT | Samsara Inc. | NYSE |
| Dec 15, 2021 | AHRN | Ahren Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 15, 2021 | IVCB | Investcorp Europe Acquisition Corp I | NASDAQ |
| Dec 15, 2021 | EVE | EVe Mobility Acquisition Corp | NYSEAMERICAN |
| Dec 15, 2021 | BFAC | Battery Future Acquisition Corp. | NYSE |
| Dec 15, 2021 | GNTA | Genenta Science S.p.A. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 15, 2021 | PRLH | Pearl Holdings Acquisition Corp | NASDAQ |
| Dec 15, 2021 | IVCP | Swiftmerge Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 14, 2021 | KACL | Kairous Acquisition Corp. Limited | NASDAQ |
| Dec 14, 2021 | VINE | Fresh Vine Wine, Inc. | NYSEAMERICAN |
| Dec 14, 2021 | SIDU | Sidus Space, Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 13, 2021 | BRKH | BurTech Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 13, 2021 | ALSA | Alpha Star Acquisition Corporation | NASDAQ |
| Dec 10, 2021 | XPDB | Power & Digital Infrastructure Acquisition II Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 10, 2021 | GFGD | The Growth for Good Acquisition Corporation | NASDAQ |
| Dec 10, 2021 | FRBN | Forbion European Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 10, 2021 | ATEK | Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II | NYSEAMERICAN |
| Dec 10, 2021 | FXCO | Financial Strategies Acquisition Corp. | – |
| Dec 10, 2021 | HAIA | Healthcare AI Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 10, 2021 | PORT | Southport Acquisition Corporation | OTCMKTS |
| Dec 10, 2021 | TCOA | Trajectory Alpha Acquisition Corp. | OTCMKTS |
| Dec 9, 2021 | NU | Nu Holdings Ltd. | NYSE |
| Dec 9, 2021 | HCP | HashiCorp, Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 9, 2021 | HORI | Emerging Markets Horizon Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 9, 2021 | SCUA | Sculptor Acquisition Corp I | NYSE |
| Dec 9, 2021 | RJAC | Jackson Acquisition Company | NYSE |
| Dec 9, 2021 | GGAA | Genesis Growth Tech Acquisition Corp. | – |
| Dec 9, 2021 | WEL | Integrated Wellness Acquisition Corp | NYSE |
| Dec 9, 2021 | TGAA | Target Global Acquisition I Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 9, 2021 | IGTA | Inception Growth Acquisition Limited | NASDAQ |
| Dec 9, 2021 | NRSN | NeuroSense Therapeutics Ltd. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 8, 2021 | REFI | Chicago Atlantic Real Estate Finance, Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 8, 2021 | CING | Cingulate Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 7, 2021 | MTVC | Motive Capital Corp II | NYSE |
| Dec 7, 2021 | DAOO | Crypto 1 Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 7, 2021 | APXI | APx Acquisition Corp. I | NASDAQ |
| Dec 7, 2021 | JWAC | Jupiter Wellness Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 7, 2021 | GLLI | Globalink Investment Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 3, 2021 | STET | ST Energy Transition I Ltd. | NYSE |
| Dec 3, 2021 | BPAC | Bullpen Parlay Acquisition Company | NASDAQ |
| Dec 3, 2021 | BIOS | BioPlus Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 3, 2021 | BOCN | Blue Ocean Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 2, 2021 | UTAA | UTA Acquisition Corporation | NASDAQ |
| Dec 2, 2021 | GEEX | Games & Esports Experience Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 2, 2021 | ROC | ROC Energy Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Dec 1, 2021 | TLGY | TLGY Acquisition Corporation | NASDAQ |
| Dec 1, 2021 | PACI | PROOF Acquisition Corp I | NYSE |
| Dec 1, 2021 | CMCAF | Capitalworks Emerging Markets Acquisition Corp | – |
| Dec 1, 2021 | ROCL | Roth Ch Acquisition V Co. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 30, 2021 | CNGL | Canna-Global Acquisition Corp. | OTCMKTS |
| Nov 24, 2021 | BRD | Beard Energy Transition Acquisition Corp. | NYSE |
| Nov 24, 2021 | MNTN | Everest Consolidator Acquisition Corporation | NYSE |
| Nov 24, 2021 | MKULQ | Molekule Group Inc. | – |
| Nov 23, 2021 | VHNA | Vahanna Tech Edge Acquisition I Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 23, 2021 | MAAQ | Mana Capital Acquisition Corp. | – |
| Nov 22, 2021 | LGTO | Legato Merger Corp. II | NASDAQ |
| Nov 22, 2021 | LAX | 8i Acquisition 2 Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 19, 2021 | ZING | FTAC Zeus Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 19, 2021 | NFNT | Infinite Acquisition Corp. | – |
| Nov 19, 2021 | FINW | FinWise Bancorp | NASDAQ |
| Nov 19, 2021 | ALOR | ALSP Orchid Acquisition Corporation I | NASDAQ |
| Nov 19, 2021 | CREEF | Crescera Capital Acquisition Corp. | OTCMKTS |
| Nov 19, 2021 | IFIN | InFinT Acquisition Corporation | NYSE |
| Nov 19, 2021 | LITM | Snow Lake Resources Ltd. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 19, 2021 | AHI | Advanced Human Imaging Limited | NASDAQ |
| Nov 18, 2021 | SG | Sweetgreen, Inc. | NYSE |
| Nov 18, 2021 | BLEU | bleuacacia ltd | NASDAQ |
| Nov 18, 2021 | ARIZ | Arisz Acquisition Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 17, 2021 | BRZE | Braze, Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 17, 2021 | IREN | Iris Energy Limited | NASDAQ |
| Nov 17, 2021 | USER | UserTesting, Inc. | – |
| Nov 17, 2021 | NETC | Nabors Energy Transition Corp. | NYSE |
| Nov 17, 2021 | SUAC | ShoulderUp Technology Acquisition Corp. | – |
| Nov 17, 2021 | LFAC | LF Capital Acquisition Corp. II | NASDAQ |
| Nov 17, 2021 | SGII | Seaport Global Acquisition II Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 17, 2021 | SEVCF | Sono Group N.V. | OTCMKTS |
| Nov 16, 2021 | ENCP | Energem Corp. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 12, 2021 | DERM | Journey Medical Corporation | NASDAQ |
| Nov 12, 2021 | MCAG | Mountain Crest Acquisition Corp. V | NASDAQ |
| Nov 12, 2021 | MYNA | Mynaric AG | NASDAQ |
| Nov 12, 2021 | BTBD | BT Brands, Inc. | NASDAQ |
| Nov 12, 2021 | IRRX | Integrated Rail & Resources Acquisition Corp. | OTCMKTS |
Reference [3] Stock Analysis
References
- https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/30/stock-market-futures-open-to-close-news.html
- https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/a-record-year-for-ipos-in-2021
- https://stockanalysis.com/ipos/2021/
