Stronger Proceeds Mark Market Shift
Europe’s market for new share offerings is showing renewed energy after a prolonged slump. In 2024, the amount of money raised from IPOs more than doubled compared with the previous year. Big-ticket listings such as Puig Brands in Spain and Galderma in Switzerland each pulled in close to €2 billion, pointing to improving sentiment among investors toward European equities.
Private Equity Players Lead Major Deals
A wave of private equity-backed companies is helping to fuel the comeback. Security provider Verisure, supported by Hellman & Friedman, is preparing a Stockholm float that could bring in about €3.1 billion. The deal would rank among the largest in Sweden’s recent history and highlights how buyout firms are tapping public markets to refinance debt and fund expansion plans.
Market Still Faces Challenges
Even as activity accelerates, many businesses are cutting valuations to make their offerings attractive to investors, underscoring lingering caution. Global economic uncertainty and political tensions continue to cloud the outlook. Nonetheless, with a number of significant IPOs lined up, market watchers believe 2025 could bring further momentum and possibly a more sustained recovery for European exchanges.
