KEY POINTS
- Anaplan is working with Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley on its market debut.
- The company aims for a valuation exceeding the $10.7 billion Thoma Bravo paid in 2022.
- This filing signals a potential resurgence in the technology IPO sector for 2026.
Software firm Anaplan is preparing to return to the public markets. The company has reportedly started the process for a confidential initial public offering. This strategy allows businesses to keep financial details private during the early stages. Anaplan specializes in cloud-based planning and performance management tools for large corporations.
Thoma Bravo acquired Anaplan in 2022 for approximately $10.7 billion. Since then, the private equity firm has worked to streamline the company’s operations. The goal is to achieve a higher valuation than the previous purchase price. Sources suggest the company is targeting a significant premium in the current market.
The timing of this filing reflects a warming environment for tech listings. Many software companies stayed private during recent years of high interest rates. Now, improved market conditions are encouraging firms to seek public capital. Anaplan’s move is being watched closely by other venture-backed technology startups.
Anaplan has enlisted top-tier financial advisors for the transition. Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley are reportedly leading the underwriting process. These banks have extensive experience navigating complex technology IPOs. Their involvement suggests a high level of confidence in Anaplan’s financial health.
The company’s software helps businesses model various financial and operational scenarios. This connected planning technology has become vital for global enterprises. Companies use these tools to predict supply chain shifts and workforce needs. In an uncertain economy, such data-driven insights remain in high demand.
The confidential filing process provides Anaplan with significant flexibility. It can adjust the timing of the sale based on market volatility. If conditions remain favorable, the IPO could happen later this year. This approach minimizes public scrutiny until the company is ready for its roadshow.
Private equity firms often look for exits through public listings or sales. Thoma Bravo has a history of taking tech companies private to rebuild them. Reintroducing Anaplan to the New York Stock Exchange would mark a successful cycle. It also provides liquidity to the firm’s investors.
The broader technology sector is eager for successful IPO examples. A strong debut from Anaplan could trigger a wave of similar filings. Analysts believe the enterprise software niche is particularly ripe for growth. Investors are looking for established companies with proven recurring revenue models.
