Founders’ Series: The Great SPAC Explosion of the 2020s

The Great SPAC Explosion of the 2020s:
Are SPACs Better than IPOs or Acquisitions?

The popularity of using a special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC) to go public has exploded, and SPACS have significantly disrupted the path to liquidity for a growing number of startups. In 2020, there were more SPAC transactions than traditional IPOs, and this number has continued to increase substantially. So far in 2021, there have been almost four times the number of SPAC transactions than traditional IPOs, with the value of SPACs more than double that of traditional IPOs.

Despite this dramatic growth, one key question remains: are SPACs really the best exit strategy for a startup? SPACs may not be appropriate for every startup, and founders considering the SPAC option should understand the advantages and disadvantages when deciding whether a SPAC makes sense for their company.

For our next event, VLAB has assembled a panel of experts, entrepreneurs, and investors with considerable SPAC experience. The panel will examine the pros and cons of “going SPAC” and review the key elements needed for a successful SPAC. While the conversation may examine the issue more from a founder’s perspective, the panel will also discuss the opportunities and risks for investors in SPAC transactions. The panel will also review some of the important regulatory issues related to SPACs.

In addition to the moderated discussion, the panel will also field questions from the audience and provide specific, relevant advice for both what-if and real-world situations. Startups attending this event should leave with a better understanding of whether they would be a good candidate for a SPAC.

• What are the benefits of a SPAC related to pricing, speed, and flexibility?
• How should startups evaluate a SPAC vs. alternative strategies?
• What are the regulatory implications and ramifications of SPACs?

Join us on November 9 to find out.

Moderator

Panelists