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By Dr. Yu Zhang, Assistant Professor of Accountancy

Going public is one of the most defining moments a company can face. It unlocks access to large-scale capital, boosts public visibility, and accelerates growth. But the process is high-stakes and complex, with success depending on a mix of factors such as market timing, investor sentiment, regulatory readiness, and company’s financial position. Traditionally, these decisions have relied heavily on human judgment and underwriter experience.  

Now, artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to transform the IPO landscape. From identifying the right moment to list to estimating investor appetite and pricing, AI has the potential to reshape how firms plan and execute their offerings. According to EY, recent IPO activity shows that companies are actively using AI to enhance their appeal to investor. Across the 2024 to Q1 2025 IPO cohort, AI was most frequently referenced by firms in the Technology, Media & Telecommunications (49%), Health and Life Sciences (45%), and Financials (41%) sectors.  

Timing the Market: When to Go Public 

Deciding when to go public involves a blend of market insight, strategic judgment, and timing. Market timing plays an important role in IPO outcomes, affecting both firm valuation and how the offering is received by investors. Research shows that firms often go public during periods of heightened investor optimism and favorable market conditions, creating rational IPO waves. 

The full article is available on The AI Journal.