Going Public

The process of selling shares that were formerly privately held to new investors for the first time. Otherwise known as an initial public offering (IPO).

Investopedia Says:
When a company "goes public," it is the first time the general public has the ability to buy shares.

Related Links:
What's an IPO, and how did everybody get so rich off them during the dotcom boom? We give you the scoop. IPO Basics Tutorial
Thinking of investing here? We give you five tips to remember. The Murky Waters Of The IPO Market
Ownership plays a key role when companies go public. Find out how. IPO Lock-Ups Stop Insider Selling
If you're looking to generate income for your investments, look no further. Uncovering Closed-End Funds

Process by which shares of common stock are first offered for sale in the public markets (through the organized exchanges or over-the-counter); also called an initial public offering. The advantages of going public must be weighed against the disadvantages. Going public may give the company and major stockholders greater access to funds, as well as additional prestige and wealth. It also means that shares assume a market value-a value placed on expected future earnings. On the other hand, the company must open its books to the public through SEC and state filings and put up with pressure for short-term performance by security analysts and large institutional investors.

Altering the organization of a corporation from ownership and control by a small group of people, as in a close corporation, to ownership by the general public, as in a publicly held corporation.

When a corporation goes public, it opens up the sale of shares of its stock to the public at large.