IPO vs FPO: What’s the Difference and Which Is Better?

IPO vs FPO

Ever wondered about the frenzy linked to an IPO or a cleanup exercise? For a novice in stock investing, these words may seem alien. Don’t worry-you are not staying alone. Both IPO and FPO, in basic terms, are stock offerings or public issues wherein companies attract public investment into their shares. This blog will explain the basics behind IPO and FPOs, discuss the major differences between the two, and help you decide which is more enticing for your investment journey. 

So, if you have ever asked: “Should I invest in an IPO India has to offer?” or “What does FPO really mean?”, then stay tuned for everything you need to know.

What is an IPO?

An IPO stands for Initial Public Offering. A private company, for the first time since its inception, starts offering its shares to the general public and becomes a listed stock company on recognised stock exchanges like the NSE or BSE. When you buy shares in an IPO, you are almost like buying into a company whose shares are making their debut in the stock market. 

Example: There is a restaurant that’s been running privately, and it now wants to expand. To raise funds, it offers part of its ownership (shares) to the public.

IPO Indian Scene: IPOs have seen a big boom in recent years in India, with big launches by companies like Zomato, Nykaa, LIC, and Paytm. 

Why Do Companies Go Public? 

• To raise funds for expansion, repayment of borrowings, or for other projects.
• To give early investors or promoters a chance to exit or reduce their stake.
• To gain public attention and credibility.
• To create a market for its shares (i.e., become listed on the primary market).

How Does an IPO Work?

1. The company files a draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI.
2. SEBI reviews and approves it.
3. The company sets a price band and opens the IPO to public bidding.
4. Investors apply for shares during the IPO window (usually 3–5 days).
5. Shares are allotted based on demand.
6. The stock is listed and begins trading on the secondary market.

What Is an FPO?

FPO stands for Follow-on Public Offering.

This is when a company that is already listed on the stock exchange issues more shares to raise additional capital. It’s like a second round of public fundraising. 

FPO Meaning Simplified: A follow-on offering is when a company already listed on the stock exchange goes back to the public to raise more money by issuing new shares or selling existing ones.

Why Do Companies Launch an FPO?

• To raise additional capital for business growth.
• To reduce debt or strengthen the balance sheet.
• To meet regulatory requirements or increase public shareholding.

Types of FPOs

1. Dilutive FPO: The company issues new shares, increasing the total share count and reducing existing shareholders’ ownership percentage.
2. Non-dilutive FPO: Existing shareholders (like promoters) sell their shares. No new shares are created, so ownership percentages stay the same.

Key Differences Between IPO vs FPO

Let’s break down IPO vs FPO using a side-by-side comparison:

Feature	IPO (Initial Public Offering)	FPO (Follow-on Public Offering)
Company Status	Private company going public	Already listed public company
Objective	Raise capital for the first time	Raise additional capital
Risk Level	Higher (new company, no track record)	Lower (known track record)
Pricing	Often based on valuation estimates	Based on market performance
Investor Confidence	May be speculative	Based on the company’s existing performance
Share Dilution	Yes, new shares are issued	Can be dilutive or non-dilutive
Regulatory Filing	Requires full disclosures and SEBI approval	Similar but often faster
Market Category	Primary market	Primary market (but existing stock trades on the secondary)
Availability of Data	Limited data, first-time financials	Ample historical financial data

IPO vs FPO: Which Is Better for Investors?

Let’s break this down based on different investor types:

1. For First-Time Investors

An IPO may feel exciting—getting in early, possibly at a lower price, and being part of a company’s market debut. But it also comes with uncertainty. You don’t know how the stock will perform post-listing. FPOs, on the other hand, offer more visibility. You can review past performance, stock trends, and company reports before deciding.

Winner: FPO (if you prefer lower risk); IPO (if you can handle a little excitement and risk).

2. For Risk-Takers

IPOs can offer high returns, especially if the listing price skyrockets. But they can also disappoint. Not every IPO becomes the next Infosys or TCS. FPOs are more grounded—you already know how the company has performed.

Winner: IPO (if you’re chasing growth and can stomach risk).

3. For Long-Term Investors

If you’re looking for long-term wealth creation, both IPOs and FPOs can offer good opportunities.

With IPOs, early entry into a promising company can mean big gains over time.

With FPOs, you can invest based on facts, history, and real data.

Winner: Both, depending on company quality and your research.

IPO vs FPO: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of Investing in IPOs

• Early entry into growing companies
• Potential for high listing gains
• Chance to invest in new and innovative businesses
• No prior price manipulation (fresh market pricing)

Disadvantages of IPOs

• High speculation and hype
• Limited historical performance data
• Allotment isn’t guaranteed (due to oversubscription)
• Risk of post-listing price drop

Advantages of Investing in FPOs

• Established company with a performance track record
• Transparent pricing based on existing market value
• Easier to evaluate risk and return
• Often available at a discount to the current market price

Disadvantages of FPOs

• Can dilute existing share value (in case of dilutive FPOs)
• Not as hyped or exciting as IPOs
• Lower chances of dramatic price jumps

Tips for Investing in IPOs and FPOs

Whether you’re investing in an IPO or FPO, follow these tips to make smarter choices:

1. Read the Offer Document: The company’s prospectus contains key information about its business model, financials, risks, and reasons for fundraising.
2. Check Valuation: Is the IPO or FPO price justified based on earnings, growth, and industry peers?
3. Look at Promoter Background: Trustworthy promoters and experienced management teams increase investor confidence.
4. Understand the Use of Funds: Will the money raised be used for growth, debt reduction, or working capital?
5. Monitor Subscription Data: In IPOs, track how different investor categories are subscribing. Oversubscription signals demand.
6. Watch Market Sentiment: Market mood impacts both IPO and FPO performance. A bullish market boosts the chances of listing gains.

How to Apply for IPOs and FPOs

Today, applying for an IPO or FPO is easy:

• Through your bank using ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount)
• Through your broker (Zerodha, Groww, Upstox, etc.)
• Via UPI on trading platforms or apps

After you apply:

• Your money is blocked temporarily (not deducted).
• If you get the allotment, shares are credited to your demat account.
• If not, your money is released.

Also, Check – IPO Investing Guide

Conclusion

So, IPO vs FPO — what’s the verdict?

Both IPOs and FPOs are great ways to participate in a company’s growth. IPOs are like joining a new journey from Day 1 — exciting but unpredictable. FPOs are more like adding fuel to a running engine — stable, informed, and data-backed. If you’re a new investor, FPOs offer a safer introduction. But if you’re willing to take calculated risks, investing in IPO India buzz can be thrilling and rewarding. Whichever you choose, remember: research is your best friend. Don’t invest based on hype alone—understand the business, check the numbers, and see how it fits into your investment goals.

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Disclaimer – This article is for educational purposes only and does not intend to substitute expert guidance. Mutual fund investments are subject to market risks. Please read the scheme-related document carefully before investing.