What is IPO?
An Initial Public Offering, commonly called an IPO, happens when a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time. Until this point, the company remains owned by founders, early investors, and private institutions.When it launches an IPO, the company lists itself on a stock exchange and allows everyday investors to buy its shares.
In simple words, an IPO opens the door for the public to become part-owners of a business.
Why Do Companies Choose to Go Public?
Companies go public for several important reasons.
- Raising Capital for Growth: By selling shares to the public, companies raise funds to expand operations, start new projects, or reduce debt.
- Providing Liquidity to Early Investors: Listing allows founders and early investors to sell part of their holdings and realise returns on their investment.
- Enhancing Reputation and Credibility: A public listing improves trust, visibility, and brand recognition in the market.
Many beginners wonder how to invest in IPO, and the good news is that HDFC Sky has made it easier than ever.How Does an IPO Work?
The IPO process follows a structured path.
- A company first appoints investment banks as underwriters. These banks guide the company through pricing, legal compliance, and public issuance.
- Next, the company prepares official documents that include financial details, business plans, and risks. These documents help investors understand what they are investing in.
- After regulatory approval, company leaders promote the IPO to potential investors through presentations called roadshows.
- Based on demand and market conditions, the company finalises the share price.
- On the listing day, shares become available on the stock exchange and trading begins.
From that moment, investors can buy and sell the stock like any other listed company.
Why Use HDFC SKY for IPO Investment?
HDFC SKY offers a smooth and beginner-friendly way to apply for IPOs directly from your trading app.
- You don’t need paperwork.
- You don’t need to visit a branch.
- You don’t need complex procedures.
- Everything happens digitally, securely, and quickly.
With a few taps, you can review upcoming IPOs, submit bids, and track your applications, making it simple even if you are learning how to purchase IPO for the first time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Invest in IPO with HDFC SKY
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- An active HDFC SKY trading account
- A bank account linked with UPI
Once ready, follow these simple steps.
Step 1: Open the IPO Section
- Open HDFC SKY app.
- Go to Menu > Indian Stocks > IPO.
- This section displays all IPOs currently open for investment.
Scroll through the list and select the IPO that interests you. This is where you start the journey of how to buy IPO shares with just a few clicks.
Step 2: Choose the IPO You Want to Apply For
Under the “OPEN” tab, you will see active IPOs accepting applications.
Scroll through the list and select the IPO that interests you.
Step 3: Review IPO Details
After selecting an IPO, the app opens a detailed page.
Here, you can view:
- Company overview
- Issue size
- Price range
- Important dates
- Lot size
Take time to read these details before moving forward.
Step 4: Click on Apply for IPO
Once you feel comfortable with your choice, click on Apply for IPO
.
Step 5: Enter Quantity and Price
Enter the number of shares based on the lot size.
You can choose:
- Cut-off price (recommended for most investors)
- Custom bid price within the price range
After entering details, click Proceed to Pay.
Step 6: Enter Your UPI ID
Enter the UPI ID linked to your registered bank account.
This step authorises the payment mandate.
Step 7: Confirm and Place Order
Review all the details carefully.
Click Place Order to submit your IPO application.
Step 8: Approve the UPI Mandate
You will receive a request in your UPI app.
Approve it within the given time to complete your application successfully.
If you miss this step, the application may get rejected.
Step 9: Track Your IPO Applications
You can monitor all submitted applications from:
Menu > Indian Stocks > IPO > Applied
This section shows status updates until the share allotment.
Apart from mainboard IPOs, investors can also explore smaller company listings. HDFC SKY allows participation in these offerings as well. If you are curious about how to apply for SME IPOthe process remains nearly identical inside the app.
What Happens After You Apply IPO?
Once the IPO closes:
- The company finalises share allotment
- Successful applicants receive shares in their Demat account
- Refunds go back to others who did not receive allotment
- Shares start trading on the listing day
From there, you can hold or sell based on your investment goals.
After the issue closes, many investors look for how to check IPO allotment to find out whether shares have been assigned to them. Once allotment is finalised, you can find out how to check IPO allotment status, which usually is available on the NSE/BSE website and the Registrar to the Issue website.
Smart Tips for IPO Investing
- Read the company’s business model carefully
- Understand how it earns money
- Check industry growth potential
- Avoid investing only because of hype
- Invest amounts that fit your financial goals
A balanced approach always works better than emotional decisions.
Final Thoughts
Investing in IPOs through HDFC SKY has made public offerings accessible, simple, and transparent for everyday investors. With an easy digital process and real-time tracking, you can participate in new company listings without stress or confusion.
However, every investment deserves careful thought. IPOs can offer growth opportunities, but they also involve uncertainty. When you combine research with the convenience of HDFC SKY, you create a smarter path toward building your investment portfolio.
With patience, knowledge, and the right platform, IPO investing can become a valuable part of your financial.

