The "IPO" definition or "initial public offering" is typically used when a business decides to "go public" to raise capital by offering ownership interests in the company to the public at large. The federal securities laws require the company to file a document called a "prospectus" to disclose to investors all facts about the IPO. An IPO may also involve following the securities laws of all 50 states and foreign countries, in addition to complying with federal law.
Find a Initial Public Offerings attorney in your area.