Examining the Pipeline: A Contemporary Assessment of Private Investments in Public Equity ('PIPEs')

Abstract

This article analyzes the practical and theoretical underpinnings as well as recent regulatory developments impacting PIPEs. Specifically, the authors examine the traditional capital financing alternatives, primarily the registered offering and private placement option, the PIPE as a relatively new and emerging alternative to traditional avenues of capital formation, and the recent regulatory changes that are bound to have a tremendous impact on the long-term viability of the PIPE as a means for effectively raising capital. The authors conclude that, on balance, the PIPE, as a distinct capital financing mechanism, may be advantageous to both PIPE investors and affected issuers, particularly in light of current market conditions that continue to constrain many companies’ ability to access traditional sources of capital. However, the authors note that, while promising to revolutionize the way a number of affected companies raise capital, certain regulatory developments may impede the optimization of the cost and efficiency benefits inherent in the PIPE transactional structure. Whether these regulatory impediments merit kudos or criticism is explored herein.