KoreConX

Recently, we received a question from an issuer wondering what “direct listing” means. In short, a direct listing, also sometimes referred to as a direct public offering, is an offering in which an issuer raises capital directly from investors without a third-party intermediary like a broker-dealer or funding platform. 

Direct listings can occur in both the public and private markets. In the private market, companies raising capital often do so under JOBS Act exemptions for SEC registration, such as RegA+ or RegD. Companies may opt for a direct listing because it lowers the costs of capital as there are often fewer fees that would otherwise be paid to an intermediary. Issuers can also use a direct listing to allow investors to invest through the issuer’s website, which can prevent investors from being directed to other offerings. This often gives issuers more control over the investment. In contrast, RegCF offerings cannot be conducted without using an SEC-registered int...more