The first significant stock market listing after the summer break gave a strong boost to the European IPO market: The shares of academic research publisher Springer Nature rose by 8.2 percent on the first day of trading in Frankfurt, closing at 24.24 euros. With sales of 600 million euros and a company valuation of 4.8 billion euros, the IPO sets a positive signal for the recovery of the capital market in Europe.

Springer Nature, 53 percent owned by the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group and 47 percent by BC Partners, achieved a successful start, despite the fact that previous large European IPOs like Puig Brands and Douglas have significantly declined since their debut. While Puig Brands and Douglas have lost 18.3 percent and 24 percent respectively, the stock market success of Springer Nature indicates that investor confidence is returning.

The rising optimism in the IPO market is supported by falling interest rates, leading to a wave of companies that had postponed their stock market debuts during the two-year lull now becoming active. For instance, CVC-backed Żabka, Poland's largest convenience store chain, announced its intention to raise 6.45 billion zloty ($1.7 billion) – the country's largest IPO since Allegro's in 2020. Additionally, Europastry, a leading frozen bakery manufacturer, recently launched its IPO aiming to generate over 500 million euros.

Springer Nature also benefits from the strategic partnership with BC Partners, which has been investing in the company since 2013. With annual revenues of 1.9 billion euros and an adjusted operating profit of 511 million euros in 2023, the publisher demonstrates solid economic foundations. The successful placement of shares highlights the increased investor interest in robust business models in the education and research sector.

According to an analysis by PwC, the IPOs conducted in Europe in the first half of 2024 have more than quadrupled revenues compared to the previous year. In the second quarter alone, 23 IPOs were realized, bringing in a total of 6.6 billion euros. This upward trend reflects the rejuvenated confidence of the markets and signals a sustainable recovery after a two-year stagnation period.