IPO Stories

Amundsen IM
IPO Stories

An IPO is an important milestone for a company and its shareholders, and it has long-term business, human & financial implications. Our purpose is to demystify the IPO process by leveraging the personal experience of company executives, advisors, and other stakeholders. In IPO Stories we interview executives, founders, advisors and investors who share their experience of the IPO process. The podcast is hosted by Gautier Rousseau and Per Einar Ellefsen, the founders of Amundsen Investment Management, a European fund manager based in Paris and Oslo.

  1. Strategic Investor Relations at AD Ports - Marc Hammoud (IPO Stories, Ep. 31)

    MAR 1

    Strategic Investor Relations at AD Ports - Marc Hammoud (IPO Stories, Ep. 31)

    In this episode, we sit down with Marc Hammoud, VP of Investor Relations at ADPorts Group, to discuss the pivotal role investor relations plays in the success of publicly listed companies. With over 15 years in MENA capital markets, Marc shares his expertise on how IR functions as a bridge between a company and the financial community, ensuring transparency, effective communication, and optimal shareholder engagement. He highlights the key functions of IR, from managing investor expectations to shaping company strategy, and explains why IR should be a core component of a company’s journey—ideally even before an IPO. The discussion also covers liquidity challenges and solutions for newly listed companies. Marc explains why stock liquidity is essential for valuation and how companies can proactively enhance it by broadening shareholder diversity, engaging with the right investors, and ensuring market visibility. He shares insights into how capital markets work, how companies can leverage IR to drive long-term shareholder value, and the importance of investor education in preparing for capital-raising events or shareholder divestments. Disclaimer: This discussion is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or solicitation to buy or sell financial instruments. The views expressed are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect those of Amundsen Investment Management. Neither Amundsen Investment Management nor the podcast guests take responsibility for investment decisions made based on this discussion. The participants in this podcast and Amundsen IM may hold positions in the companies mentioned.

    52 min
  2. The Syensqo spin-off from Solvay - Ilham Kadri (IPO Stories, Ep. 29)

    10/15/2024

    The Syensqo spin-off from Solvay - Ilham Kadri (IPO Stories, Ep. 29)

    Our guest in this episode is Dr. Ilham Kadri, the CEO of Syensqo, a global speciality chemicals company listed in Brussels. In 2023, Ilham led the spin-off of Syensqo from Solvay, the 160-year old Belgian chemicals conglomerate. In this interview, Ilham discusses the strategic rationale behind the decision to split Solvay into two separate entities, highlighting the aim to unlock the full potential of both companies. She explains how Solvay, a historic leader in commodity chemicals, and Syensqo, a new entity focused on specialty chemicals, were positioned to pursue their unique growth strategies. The conversation delves into the meticulous planning and execution required for the separation, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and maintaining operational continuity during a volatile global environment. She highlights Syensqo's focus on innovation and sustainability, detailing its ambitious goals for carbon neutrality and its role in advancing technological solutions. The episode also touches on the broader implications of the spin-off, including the strategic benefits of being a publicly listed company and the impact on stakeholders, from employees to investors. Dr. Kadri's leadership and vision provide a comprehensive view of the complexities involved in creating two independent champions from a long-standing conglomerate. Disclaimer: The discussion in this episode is not financial advice, nor an investment recommendation, nor a solicitation to buy or sell any financial instruments or an offer for financial services or any other transaction. The information contained in the recording has no contractual value and is intended for informational purposes only. Amundsen Investment Management and the participants in this podcast may have holdings in the companies being discussed. Any views expressed are those of the guests only, and not of Amundsen Investment Management.

    56 min
  3. Untangling IPO dynamics with Fidelity's Anne Ross (IPO Stories, Ep. 28)

    09/18/2024

    Untangling IPO dynamics with Fidelity's Anne Ross (IPO Stories, Ep. 28)

    In this episode we welcome Anne Ross, EMEA Equity Syndicate Manager at Fidelity Management and Research, our first guest from the buy-side. With her background at JP Morgan and now on the buy-side, Anne provides invaluable insights into the IPO process, from the role of bookrunners and strategic selection of banks, to the importance of understanding investor types and maintaining a strong shareholder base post-IPO, offering her view of what it takes to successfully navigate the public markets. Anne also delves into the evolving nature of IPOs, highlighting the impact of market trends and the necessity of aligning management incentives with shareholder interests. She emphasizes the significance of timing and strategic planning, advising companies to be well-prepared and adaptable. Whether you're a company considering going public or an investor seeking to understand the IPO landscape better, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert insights that are sure to enhance your understanding of the IPO journey.   Disclaimer: The discussion in this episode is not financial advice, nor an investment recommendation, nor a solicitation to buy or sell any financial instruments or an offer for financial services or any other transaction. The information contained in the recording has no contractual value and is intended for informational purposes only. Amundsen Investment Management and the participants in this podcast may have holdings in the companies being discussed. Any views expressed are those of the guests only, and not of Fidelity Management & Research or Amundsen Investment Management.

    47 min

About

An IPO is an important milestone for a company and its shareholders, and it has long-term business, human & financial implications. Our purpose is to demystify the IPO process by leveraging the personal experience of company executives, advisors, and other stakeholders. In IPO Stories we interview executives, founders, advisors and investors who share their experience of the IPO process. The podcast is hosted by Gautier Rousseau and Per Einar Ellefsen, the founders of Amundsen Investment Management, a European fund manager based in Paris and Oslo.

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