As the head of Capital Markets at Automic, I have a front-row seat to the ambitions of Australian business. After a period of caution across the market, 2025 has felt like a genuine turning point. The energy and optimism are back, and there’s no clearer evidence of this than in the numbers.
This year, our team at Automic helped Australian companies raise over $1.5 billion in capital through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). For me, this figure isn't just a corporate milestone; it's a barometer for the health and confidence of the entire market. It speaks volumes about where we are and where we're heading.
The resurgence of the IPO
So, what does raising $1.5 billion in this climate reveal?
First, it confirms that IPOs are firmly back on the agenda. Compared to last year, the growth is significant. We're seeing a healthy risk appetite return, fuelled by easing market conditions and a more stable interest rate outlook. Confidence is contagious; when companies list and then perform strongly, it gives others the assurance they need to make their own move onto the world stage. We're not just seeing a return to activity; we're seeing it pick up speed.
Second, it underscores Automic's evolution into a market leader. Over the past five years, we have powered almost half of all Australian IPOs. Our journey has seen us grow from a technology disruptor focused on smaller listings to a trusted partner for the top end of town.
Why clients are coming to Automic
An IPO is a company's debut, and when I speak with founders and boards, they all want the same thing: certainty. They choose to partner with us because they need a safe pair of hands.
Automic’s track record and market share provide that peace of mind, but it’s our responsiveness that truly makes the difference. Our Capital Markets team becomes an extension of their team, guiding them through the crucial, high-pressure moments before listing. We handle the day-to-day registry process so that leadership has one less thing to worry about.
I'm incredibly proud of the work we do, and while every deal is unique, here are just a few public examples of the ambitious companies we've supported recently:
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GemLife Communities Group
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Revolution Private Credit Income Trust
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La Trobe Private Credit Fund
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Stepchange Holdings Limited
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What's next for IPOs?
This milestone is a platform for the future. Looking at the next 18 months, I see a few key trends accelerating. I expect to see a continued increase in deal volume, a greater risk appetite driving stronger ECM deals, and more use of ASIC’s fast-track IPO structure.
We're also seeing a strong pipeline of listed investment trusts coming to the market, and I believe that will continue to be a key area of growth
Australia’s economy is always evolving. If this year has taught us anything, it’s that ambition is alive and well.
Your journey to market leadership starts with a conversation.
If you are planning your next capital raise or considering an IPO, I invite you to contact my team at Automic today. Let's discuss your specific goals and explore how we can provide the certainty and support you need for a successful transaction.