Global IPO markets in the first quarter of 2025 have experienced profound uncertainty, shaped by significant geopolitical shifts and the rise of disruptive artificial intelligence (AI) models. 

A total of 291 IPOs raised US$29.3b globally, maintaining steady volume compared with Q1 2024 while increasing total deal value by 20%. 

The US exceled in IPO activity, Asia-Pacific markets showed signs of recovery and EMEIA held steady.

The new US administration’s sweeping policy changes have created opportunities and risks. Inflation expectations have risen, and the tariffs will only further fuel inflationary pressures in the US and around the world, casting uncertainty over monetary policy. 

The Aerospace and Defense sector is experiencing a surge in investment globally due to heightened defense spending, which could boost IPO activity in this sector. Yet, new policies have also led to a chilling effect on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts, as companies grapple with an uneven regulatory landscape across markets. 

IPO candidates are increasingly leveraging AI to enhance market strategies and operational efficiencies, signaling a transformative impact on how businesses prepare for and execute public offerings.

The number of Q1 2025 IPOs in the Americas increased by 51% compared with Q1 2024, as constructive market conditions early in the quarter facilitated the transition to the public markets. In the US, cross-border deals accounted for 58% of the new listings this quarter.

Asia-Pacific showed signs of recovery, reclaiming the lead area in IPO volume and value, with Japan contributing the largest global IPO this quarter. Hong Kong, South Korea and Malaysia all recorded robust growth; however, the Chinese mainland and Oceania remain subdued.

In EMEIA, significant US policy shifts under a new administration put Europe in the middle of a geopolitical storm and brought more uncertainty to its IPO market. However, the Middle East continued to perform well, while India stood out for its substantial deal value despite a decline in volume.

Caught in the vortex of uncertainty, some companies initially planning to list in 2025, particularly those targeting the first quarter of the year, have delayed their IPOs to later quarters or even early 2026. Those that have already listed in the first quarter are demonstrating varied aftermarket performance. Meanwhile, stock markets in major economies cratered from late March into early April amid a tariff-induced storm, dashing earlier hopes of sustained peak valuations across major regions. 

Though IPOs held firm this quarter, heightened volatility readings and a shaky outlook now signal faltering investor sentiment for near-term future listings. The US, however, is set to keep attracting international listings.

The Industrials sector, including Aerospace and Defense, is also poised for sustained growth in 2025, driven by a solid pipeline and regulatory support.

Despite the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, mounting trade tariffs, a cooling economic outlook, rising inflation risks, and short-term market volatility, there are positive indicators such as a robust global IPO pipeline and targeted government support to key sectors. 

AI is emerging as a transformative force in the IPO landscape, significantly influencing companies’ growth trajectories.

Companies across various sectors are leveraging AI to streamline operations and maximize their chances of successful public offerings. Notably, the Technology, Health and Life Sciences and Financials sectors most often mentioned AI in corporate fillings, with AI a central part of the company narratives for recent IPO cohort.