Newly Public Companies: The Essentials

An IPO and the years that follow are exciting times for a company: your company has more cash in the bank from the IPO proceeds, a new currency (tradeable stock) with which to pay employees and pay for acquisitions, and of course, access to public capital.

It’s also a time when corporations are adjusting to new regulations and risks. The risks are real, and include the trend of an increased likelihood of being hit by a securities class action suit, as illustrated below.

As newly public companies navigate complex issues like director compensation, shareholder activism and even the timely filing of certain forms, guidance from professionals who have been through this before is invaluable.

On May 24, 2016, Equilar and NASDAQ are hosting a half-day event for newly public companies. The event will be held at the Four Seasons in Silicon Valley. Woodruff Sawyer is a sponsor, and I’ll be there speaking on a panel about risk management for new companies.

Included in the topics I’ll cover will be:

• Ways to reduce your risk of being sued by shareholders
• Indemnification agreements as a first line of defense for Ds and Os
• How to select appropriate limits for your D&O Insurance

Other topics on the event agenda include:

• Avoiding the activists’ knock at the door
• Board evolution: recruiting directors for the future
• Compensation and cultural challenges for a new public company
• Executive compensation under the microscope
• Myths and realities of shareholder engagement and proxy voting

The event starts at noon with lunch, includes a fast-paced afternoon of discussion, and ends with a cocktail reception. In my experience, Equilar/ NASDAQ events bring together influential business leaders who are open to sharing ideas, learning and connecting.

Friends of Woodruff Sawyer can take advantage of a special discount using the code WSFriend400 to receive $400 off the registration.

To sign up, go to Equilar, here.

I hope to see you there.

The views expressed in this blog are solely those of the author. This blog should not be taken as insurance or legal advice for your particular situation. Questions? Comments? Concerns? Email: phuskins@woodruffsawyer.com.