UK IPO proceeds trebled in first half, EY data shows

(Sharecast News) - The UK IPO market showed early signs of a revival in the first half of 2026, according to an EY report released on Wednesday, with the amount raised through market debuts more than trebling compared with the previous year. Seven IPOs took place in the first half, comprising three on the main market and four on AIM, raising a total of £577m in proceeds, a 215% increase over the year before.

Five of these listings happened in the second quarter alone, raising £564m, representing a 422% surge over the second quarter of 2025.

"The UK IPO market is being shaped by shifting macroeconomic conditions and evolving investor sentiment," said Scott McCubbin, the UK IPO leader at EY-Parthenon.

"Easing oil prices and moderating inflation are bringing interest rate cuts back into focus, creating a more supportive backdrop for capital markets."

IPO markets overall also gained momentum, EY reported, with 509 IPOs raising $193.6bn. Despite the ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic headwinds, the total amount raised was up 210% over the year.

IPOs in the AI and related infrastructure spaces contributed to the growth, underpinned by SpaceX's record-setting $86bn IPO in early June.

"Sector activity remained robust across semiconductors, power and data centre infrastructure, robotics, and advanced manufacturing, with investors increasingly focused on companies demonstrating credible AI-driven growth strategies," EY said.