The Determinants of IPO Withdrawals: Evidence From SPACs

30 Pages Posted: 25 Mar 2020

See all articles by Nebojsa Dimic

Nebojsa Dimic

University of Vaasa

Edward R. Lawrence

Florida International University (FIU) - Department of Finance

Milos Vulanovic

EDHEC Business School

Date Written: February 15, 2020

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of IPO withdrawal using a unique sample of Specified Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs) in the period 2003-2019. Our results show that both prospectuses' characteristics and market characteristics determine choices of withdrawal. The likelihood of withdrawals is in direct relation with the level of volatility on the day of IPO/withdrawal and if the acquisition target is in the private equity domain. SPACs are less likely to withdraw their IPO if they have a clear focus of acquisition, have a larger number of underwriters in the syndicate, and if their legal counsel is specialized in the SPAC market. We also document that the speed of IPO for SPACs is directly related to the level of the market, size of IPO, and if the CEO was previously manager of other public companies. On the other side, IPO takes longer if two lead underwriters underwrite SPAC.

Keywords: IPO, LASSO Selection Method, M&A, SPACs, Withdrawal

JEL Classification: G14, G24, G32

Suggested Citation

Dimic, Nebojsa and Lawrence, Edward R. and Vulanovic, Milos, The Determinants of IPO Withdrawals: Evidence From SPACs (February 15, 2020). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3538671 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3538671

Nebojsa Dimic

University of Vaasa ( email )

Wolffintie 34
Vaasa, 65200
Finland

Edward R. Lawrence

Florida International University (FIU) - Department of Finance ( email )

University Park
11200 SW 8th Street
Miami, FL 33199
United States

Milos Vulanovic (Contact Author)

EDHEC Business School ( email )

24, avenue Gustave Delory
CS 50411
Roubaix, 59057
France

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