
PIPE deals have become a popular way for companies to raise capital, and for investors to gain exposure to high-growth industries. This is because PIPE deals offer a unique combination of benefits.
PIPE deals allow companies to raise capital without having to go through a full IPO, saving them time and money. In fact, PIPE deals can be completed in as little as 30 days, compared to the 6-12 months it can take for a traditional IPO.
Investors in PIPE deals can expect to see significant returns, with some deals offering returns of 20% or more. This is because PIPE deals often involve investments in high-growth industries, such as biotech or fintech.
PIPE deals can also provide investors with a way to gain exposure to a company without having to buy a large stake. In fact, investors in PIPE deals can often purchase a small percentage of the company's shares, making it a more accessible investment option.
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What is a Deal?
A deal in the context of a PIPE deal refers to a negotiated agreement between a company and private investors to buy a large chunk of stock at a preferred price.
Private investors, such as mutual funds and other large institutional investors, can strike these deals to acquire stock at a price below the current market price available to the public.
Companies often use PIPE deals to raise a large amount of capital quickly, taking advantage of the flexibility and speed that these deals offer.
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History and Regulation
The history of PIPE deals shows a significant fluctuation in interest over time. In 2017, $45.3 billion was raised over 1,461 deals, a notable decrease from 2008 when $88.3 billion was closed over 980 transactions in the first 9 months.
PIPE deals tend to occur in markets or industries that struggle to raise capital, as seen in the 2008 banking crisis. This has led to concerns about the fairness of these deals.
Regulators have called for more intensive regulations to prevent insider trading opportunities, citing the small size of the offering firms and their limited choices in negotiations with hedge funds.
History of Deals

The history of PIPE deals is a fascinating one, with significant fluctuations in interest and capital raised over the years. In 2017, a total of $45.3 billion was raised over 1,461 deals.
PIPE deals were particularly popular during the 2008 banking crisis, as companies struggled to raise capital in difficult markets. A staggering $88.3 billion was closed over 980 transactions in the first 9 months of that year.
However, the popularity of PIPE deals can also be a double-edged sword for shareholders, as the issuance of new stock can dilute the value of existing shares. This has led some regulators to call for more intensive regulations to prevent insider trading opportunities.
In 2016, 1,199 deals raised $51.6 billion, a significant amount of capital, but less than the $88.3 billion closed in the first 9 months of 2008.
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Government Bailouts
Government bailouts can be a last resort for companies in dire need of capital, often involving the government purchasing a chunk of equity in return for liquid capital.
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In extreme cases, like the auto industry bailout of 2009, the government takes over a company, as happened with GM and Chrysler.
Private PIPE deals are more likely to be pursued by smaller companies that are not considered systemically important enough to warrant government action.
These companies may have already tried and failed to negotiate a PIPE deal with a private institution before seeking a government bailout.
Government bailouts are generally more extreme than typical PIPE deals, since the companies that seek them are more desperate.
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Regulation
Regulation plays a crucial role in PIPE transactions, and it's essential to understand the regulatory environment in different countries.
In the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, the regulatory environment is accommodating for PIPE transactions. However, in some areas, there is a stated preference for rights issues, which allow existing shareholders to invest before the company seeks outside capital.
Companies that have completed a rights offering may pursue a PIPE transaction in these jurisdictions. This flexibility is beneficial for companies looking to raise capital and maintain control.
The regulatory requirements for PIPE transactions can be complex and time-consuming, but understanding the regulations can help companies navigate the process more efficiently.
Here are some common forms of investment used in PIPE transactions:
- Stock
- Preferred stock
- Private equity
- Strategic block investing
- Public offering
- Alternative public offering
- Public offering without listing
- Co-investments
PIPE Deals

PIPE Deals are a type of financing where a company raises capital by issuing shares to private investors, often at a discount to the current market price.
The negotiation process for a PIPE deal involves a careful balance between the interests of both parties, including the company and the investor. Dr. Utparn Dubey, Managing Director of OORJAgram India Pvt Ltd, notes that negotiations can be challenging but ultimately beneficial to both parties.
A successful PIPE deal requires a clear understanding of the needs and goals of each party, as well as a thorough analysis of the risks and opportunities involved. This involves considering factors such as market conditions, valuation methods, and due diligence findings.
PIPE deals are often used by companies in distressed or struggling situations, such as small caps or companies with low liquidity. Private equity firms also use PIPEs to invest in public equities, taking advantage of discounted prices and creative structuring to protect their downside risk.
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What is PIPE?
A PIPE deal is a type of financing where a company privately sells equity or convertible debt to an accredited investor at a discounted rate. This can be a structured PIPE deal, where the company issues convertible debt that can be converted to stock at the investor's will.
The company is usually trying to raise capital quickly or because they couldn't get it through other means. The investor benefits from buying at a discounted price, as the shares are relatively illiquid.
PIPE deals are popular due to their efficiency and fewer regulations from the SEC. Any publicly-traded company can initiate a PIPE deal with an accredited investor, making it a useful option for smaller or lesser-known companies that might struggle to raise capital otherwise.
The negotiation of a PIPE deal involves a careful balance between the interests of both parties. The company wants to raise capital at the highest price possible, with the least dilution and restrictions, while the investor wants to buy shares at the lowest price possible, with the most protection and upside.
Here are some factors that can influence the negotiation process:
- Market conditions
- Competitive landscape
- Valuation methods
- Due diligence findings
- Legal and regulatory issues
Benefits All Around
PIPE deals can be a game-changer for companies in need of quick capital.
A PIPE may be readily available, especially in volatile markets where traditional funding options are scarce. This is because PIPE investors offer a simple and fast solution to raise capital, avoiding the hassle of dealing with a large number of public investors.
For issuers, a PIPE deal can be attractive due to its speed, with funds obtained quickly in a matter of days. Investors typically receive fairly light transaction-specific disclosure, instead relying on publicly available information.
PIPEs can also provide issuers with more control over the strategic direction of a PIPE offering, allowing them to confidentially explore possible terms with an investor. This can be especially beneficial in times of market volatility.
Depending on the terms, PIPEs may be considered cost-effective alternatives to traditional underwritten offerings, usually with lower transaction expenses. However, the negotiated pricing discount may be higher.
Investors may find a PIPE appealing due to its potential to obtain a sizeable stake in a public company at a negotiated and discounted price. Private equity and hedge fund sponsors may also find it an attractive option during volatile times when private company valuations are uncertain.
Here are some of the benefits of PIPE deals for both issuers and investors:
- Availability: PIPEs can be readily available, especially in volatile markets.
- Speed: Funds can be obtained quickly in a matter of days.
- Privacy and Control: Issuers have flexibility to confidentially explore possible terms with an investor.
- Cost-Effective: Depending on the terms, PIPEs may be considered cost-effective alternatives to traditional underwritten offerings.
Structuring and Executing a Deal
Structuring and Executing a Deal requires careful consideration of multiple factors. The negotiation process can be influenced by market conditions, competitive landscape, valuation methods, due diligence findings, and legal and regulatory issues. A successful PIPE deal requires a clear understanding of the needs and goals of each party.
The execution of a PIPE deal involves coordination among various parties, including the company, investor, and intermediaries. Effective execution requires careful coordination, focusing on legal compliance, due diligence, and clear communication. The company needs to prepare and file necessary documents, while the investor conducts due diligence and arranges financing.
The management of a PIPE deal involves maintaining a good relationship and communication between the company and the investor. The company must report its financial and operational performance, and keep the investor informed of any material events or changes.
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Key Takeaways
A PIPE deal is a way for companies to raise a large amount of money quickly by selling shares at a below-market price.
In a typical PIPE deal, the issuing company is trying to raise capital, often because they need it quickly or couldn't get it through other means.
The purchasing company, usually a mutual fund or hedge fund, buys the shares at a discounted price because they're relatively illiquid.
Here are some key facts to keep in mind:
- PIPE deals are private investment in public equity deals where a private investor buys shares at a below-market price.
- PIPE deals are a way for companies to raise a large amount of money quickly.
- PIPE deals can be unpopular with existing shareholders because they dilute the existing pool of shares and reduce its value.
- PIPE deals have similarities to some of the massive government bailouts seen in recent years, but they typically involve smaller, less systemically important companies.
Execute a Deal
Executing a deal requires careful coordination among various parties involved. This includes the company, the investor, and the intermediaries such as lawyers, accountants, bankers, and brokers.
Effective execution requires focusing on legal compliance, due diligence, and clear communication. As Vino Cherian notes, "Effective execution requires careful coordination among various parties involved, focusing on legal compliance, due diligence, and clear communication to ensure a successful and smooth PIPE transaction."
The company needs to prepare and file the necessary documents and disclosures, such as the term sheet, the purchase agreement, the registration statement, and the proxy statement. The company also needs to obtain the approval and consent of the relevant parties, such as the shareholders, the board of directors, the exchange, and the regulators.
The investor needs to conduct due diligence and verify the information and representations of the company. The investor also needs to arrange the financing and settlement of the transaction.
To ensure a successful deal, it's essential to identify and mitigate potential risks. As Luis Sousa Figueiredo de Sousa notes, "A execução desta modalidade de investimento precisa ser bem dimensionada pelo lado do investidor, que arcará com custos para se assegurar que não encontrará surpresas após aportar recursos na empresa."
Here are some key steps to consider when executing a deal:
- Prepare and file necessary documents and disclosures.
- Obtain approval and consent from relevant parties.
- Conduct due diligence and verify information and representations.
- Arrange financing and settlement of the transaction.
- Identify and mitigate potential risks.
Structuring a Deal
Structuring a deal requires a delicate balance of interests and expectations between the company and the investor. The company wants to raise as much capital as possible, at the highest price possible, and with the least dilution and restrictions possible.
The investor, on the other hand, wants to buy as many shares as possible, at the lowest price possible, and with the most protection and upside possible. This means that the negotiation process can be influenced by several factors, such as market conditions, competitive landscape, valuation methods, due diligence findings, and legal and regulatory issues.
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A clear understanding of the needs and goals of each party is crucial for a successful deal. This involves analyzing the risks and opportunities, and adopting a flexible and collaborative approach to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Here are some key factors to consider when structuring a PIPE deal:
- Market conditions: The current market conditions can significantly impact the negotiation process.
- Valuation methods: Different valuation methods can result in varying price tags for the shares.
- Due diligence findings: The findings of the due diligence process can reveal potential risks and opportunities.
- Legal and regulatory issues: Compliance with laws and regulations is essential to avoid any complications.
A thorough analysis of these factors will help you navigate the negotiation process and reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Managing and Risks
Negotiations in a PIPE deal can be influenced by various factors, such as market conditions, competitive landscape, valuation methods, due diligence findings, and legal and regulatory issues.
These factors can affect the negotiation process and require a clear understanding of the needs and goals of each party. A thorough analysis of the risks and opportunities is also essential to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
The negotiation process can involve other stakeholders, such as existing shareholders, the board of directors, underwriters, and regulators, who may have different interests and expectations.
Managing Deals

Managing deals requires ongoing effort from both parties involved. This includes maintaining a good relationship and communication with the investor.
The company needs to report its financial and operational performance to the investor. This helps the investor stay informed and monitor the company's progress.
Compliance with obligations and commitments is crucial to avoid any conflicts or controversies with the investor. The company must respect the rights and preferences of the investor.
The investor should provide feedback and support to the company to help it grow and improve. They must also abide by the rules and restrictions of the deal.
Regular communication and transparency are key to a successful deal. This helps build trust and ensures that both parties are working towards the same goals.
Risks and Challenges in Investments
Investing in PIPE deals can be a challenging endeavor due to the limited opportunity set, especially when markets are rising.
Private equity investors typically have a short window to deploy each fund, making it difficult to prioritize PIPE investments as a main strategy.
LPs don't invest in private equity funds to gain exposure to public markets, so they're not willing to pay high fees for the same exposure through simple market investments.
Private equity firms often massage valuation marks of their portfolio companies in times of volatility, which can be a concern for investors.
PIPE investments tend to have daily publicly quoted prices, making it harder for private equity firms to smooth out returns.
High probability and quick returns are common in PIPE deals, but they often come with lower absolute upside.
A 50% return in a year may be exciting, but it may not generate as much carry as a 3x MOIC investment that takes six years to realize.
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Market and Mergers
The pipe deal market is a complex and rapidly evolving space. The deal is expected to have a significant impact on the industry.
One of the key factors driving the market is the increasing demand for oil and gas infrastructure. This demand is being fueled by growing energy needs in emerging markets.
The deal is also expected to lead to significant cost savings for the companies involved. By consolidating their assets, they can eliminate redundant expenses and improve their bottom line.
In terms of mergers, the pipe deal is a prime example of how two companies can come together to create a more competitive and efficient entity.
Market
The PIPE market has seen its share of ups and downs since the late 1990s, with a record 980 transactions closing in the US, totaling $88.3 billion in gross proceeds, by September 30, 2008.
In fact, the number of PIPE deals in the US has been steadily increasing, with 1,106 deals in 2000 and 1,301 deals in 2005. However, the total amount raised has varied, with $24.3 billion in 2000 and $20 billion in 2005.
Top Wall Street investment banks have become increasingly involved in the PIPE market, serving as placement agents for these transactions. This is evident in a global study of PIPEs, which analyzed over 10,000 PIPEs issued in 37 countries between 1995 and 2015.
A staggering $396 billion was raised via PIPEs during this period, with non-US firms accounting for two-thirds of this amount. The PIPE market has proven to be a vital source of capital for companies, especially during times of crisis.
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Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers and Acquisitions involve a significant transfer of ownership, often through a reverse merger or a simultaneous PIPE transaction. A reverse merger is typically used by smaller public companies to gain access to the public markets.
PIPE transactions are often used in conjunction with reverse mergers. In a PIPE transaction, shares are sold at a slight discount to the public market price.
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Unique Aspects
Pipe deals often involve complex negotiations, but one unique aspect is the use of "take-or-pay" contracts, where the buyer agrees to pay a minimum amount regardless of actual usage.
This approach helps ensure a stable revenue stream for the seller and can provide a guarantee of payment for a portion of the pipeline's capacity.
A key benefit of pipe deals is the ability to lock in long-term prices, which can provide price stability and protection against market fluctuations.
This can be particularly valuable for buyers who need to plan their budgets and operations over an extended period.
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The "take-or-pay" contract can also help the seller to recover the costs of maintaining and operating the pipeline, even if it's not being used at full capacity.
In some cases, the seller may also offer additional services, such as storage and transportation, which can increase the overall value of the pipe deal.
These services can be especially valuable for buyers who need to store or transport large volumes of a particular product.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does PIPEs mean finance?
PIPEs stands for Private Investment in Public Equity, a financing method where investors buy restricted shares from a company with the agreement to file a resale registration statement for public resale
Sources
- https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/pipe-deal.asp
- https://www.linkedin.com/advice/3/how-can-you-structure-successful-venture-capital-6ride
- https://perkinscoie.com/insights/update/pipe-transactions-key-considerations-issuers-and-investors
- https://theprivateequiteer.com/private-equity-pipe-investments/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private_investment_in_public_equity
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