An initial public offering (IPO) can be a complex and challenging process, but it is one of the most valuable opportunities for companies to raise capital, improve their reputation and credibility, and allows companies and shareholders alike to gain tax-exempt dividends from investment. It is crucial for a company intending to go public to understand the steps involved in conducting an IPO on the Thai Stock Exchange.
Opening a company to the public market allows it to tap into a vast pool of potential investors and secure the capital it needs to fuel the company’s growth and success.
Table 1: Company benefits of going public
• A company can sell shares to a wide range of investors in or outside Thailand.
• The IPO selling price is normally higher than par value with no debt servicing
(interest) costs
• The company can issue and list securities beyond common shares, such as
debentures, warrants, and preferred shares, which will raise additional capItal.
• If a company is incorporated under Thai Law, any dividends received from
holding shares in other Thai firms are tax-exempt. Stocks must be held for a
minimum of three months before and after the date of the dividend
payment.
• Company disclosure of financial information to the public is viewed as more
credible and trustworthy.
• The strict regulations and increased transparency lead to a better
reputation, more credibility and higher bargaining power.
• Increased exposure through official SET channels publishing company
information. This can help attract customers, partners, and potential employees.
• A public company status draws in foreign investment and creates opportunities
to expand and modernize.
• Having a tactical business ally such as the SET increases a company’s
competitiveness, especially on a global scale.
• Listed companies can access financial instruments like the
Employee Joint Investment Program (EJIP) and the
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) to help attract and retain employees.
• Public listing brings public respect, which fosters employee pride and loyalty.
Table 2: Shareholder benefits of going public
It is easier to trade stocks for cash on the public market.
Protection
Rules and regulations governing securities trading and information disclosure ensure shareholders’ investments are protected.
Individual investors selling shares in a company listed on the Thai Stock Exchange are not required to pay tax on the capital gains earned from the sale.
Main Stock Exchanges
The SET
The MAI
How Can We Help?
● Conducting due diligence;
● Establishing standard internal control systems;
● Restructuring the company as needed, including business, equity and shareholding
structures;
● Preparing documents and information for the IPO filing and listing application; and
● Distributing securities or employing an underwriter to distribute securities.