Chinese autonomous driving company iMotion Automotive Technology is set to launch its Hong Kong initial public offering (IPO) in late November, aiming to raise USD 100 million. The Suzhou-based firm, approved for an overseas share sale by China’s securities regulator, plans to open IPO subscriptions in the coming weeks, with trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange expected in early December.
IPO details and timing
iMotion initially intended to raise USD 300 million, as reported in March, but has scaled down its fundraising goal. The company, one of the first to gain approval for an overseas share sale under new regulations in March, will initiate the IPO process in late November, opening subscriptions two weeks later, according to sources. The actual timing may be subject to change due to ongoing global market volatility amid persistent inflation and high interest rates.
Market conditions and considerations
As global financial markets grapple with uncertainty, iMotion’s revised fundraising target aligns with cautious market sentiments. The company’s IPO is a part of China’s broader strategy to support innovation in the smart vehicle supply chain. In October, state media reported China’s commitment to fostering groups in the sector to enhance innovation, aiming to establish standards for assisted and autonomous driving functions by 2025.
Hong Kong IPO landscape
iMotion’s IPO contributes to Hong Kong’s IPO landscape, which has faced challenges in 2023. New share sales in the region dropped by 32.5% in the first three quarters of the year, marking one of the slowest periods for IPOs. The iMotion IPO is anticipated to bring activity to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange amid a challenging year for public offerings.
iMotion’s move to raise USD 100 million in its Hong Kong IPO reflects its strategic positioning in the evolving autonomous driving sector. The company’s decision to navigate the current market conditions demonstrates a measured approach as it joins Hong Kong’s IPO landscape in December, contributing to the broader narrative of innovation and growth in the smart vehicle supply chain in China.