public company

A company that sells shares in itself to the public to raise capital. When a previously privately owned company offers shares, it is said to “go public.”

Public Company

A company that has issued securities through an initial public offering and which are traded on at least one stock exchange or over-the-counter market.

Investopedia Commentary

These companies must file documents and meet stringent reporting requirements set out by the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the public disclosure of financial statements. Any company whose shares are available to the public is a public company.

Related Links

IPO Basics Tutorial

See also: Equity, IPO, Over-The-Counter Market, Private Company, Securities and Exchange Commission - SEC