Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following occurs when a company goes public?
A
The company must switch from accrual to cash basis accounting.
B
The company issues shares to the public for the first time through an initial public offering (IPO).
C
The company is no longer required to prepare a statement of cash flows.
D
The company is required to immediately pay off all outstanding debts.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of 'going public': When a company goes public, it means the company is offering its shares to the public for the first time through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). This allows the company to raise capital from public investors.
Clarify the accounting basis: A company going public does not need to switch from accrual to cash basis accounting. Public companies are required to follow Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), which typically use accrual basis accounting.
Examine the statement of cash flows requirement: Public companies are required to prepare and disclose a statement of cash flows as part of their financial reporting. This is a mandatory requirement under GAAP and SEC regulations.
Address the debt repayment misconception: Going public does not require a company to immediately pay off all outstanding debts. The funds raised through an IPO can be used for various purposes, including debt repayment, but it is not a mandatory condition.
Conclude with the correct answer: The correct answer is that the company issues shares to the public for the first time through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). This is the defining characteristic of a company going public.