An Alternative Way to Go Public
One of the ways G&P helps private companies go public is through a reverse merger, also known as an Alternative Public Offering or APO. In an APO, a private company merges with a public shell company, allowing the private business to be publicly traded without an expensive, risky and dilutive public offering. Our attorneys help guide companies throughout the United States and around the world through the reverse merger process.
Advantages of Going Public Through a Reverse Merger
The costs involved in acquiring a publicly traded and SEC registered shell company are typically much lower than the costs associated with a traditional initial public offering involving an underwriter. A reverse merger also offers the following advantages:
- A reverse merger is faster than an IPO
- An APO is not dependent on (often nonexistent or limited) IPO market windows
- Management and advisors set company valuation
- More financing options, including private investment in public equities (PIPEs), are available to raise money for working capital, acquisitions and reverse merger expenses
- It is only necessary to raise the amount of capital a business needs. Typically IPOs are generally used for raising large amounts of money for larger companies
- There are fewer management distractions than the process of going public through an IPO
Trading typically starts on the OTC Bulletin Board and allows for migration onto Nasdaq, or NYSE or AMEX, thereby alleviating the burden of initial exchange listing requirements at the time of going public.
Our lawyers manage all of the steps required to complete a reverse merger, from due diligence, review of the business plan, negotiating the merger or acquisition, structuring the transaction to drafting the legal documents, including the private placement memorandum and the registration statement. We also provide access to professionals and vendors needed to support the process of going public.
For More Information
To discuss reverse mergers or APOs with a lawyer at Gottbetter & Partners, LLP, in New York City, call 866.586.4098 or fill out the contact form on this Web site.
