IPO Waves and Hot Markets in the UK

Abstract

This paper examines the cyclical nature of IPO activity in the UK. The results indicate a lead-lag relationship between IPO initial returns and volume. IPO volume is sensitive to recent changes in market conditions. There is evidence of industry concentration in hot markets, and fi rms raise more equity during these periods. Overall, IPO waves in the UK share similar characteristics with those in the US. The findings are consistent with rational explanations of IPO waves. However, explanations based on investor sentiment and market timing cannot be ruled out, since there is a strong positive relationship between IPO volume and the market's price-to-book ratio.