An open offer is a public invitation to purchase securities at an offered price and on specific terms over a set period of time. The offer comes from the issuer, usually a corporation or government, that is selling the securities, although it may also come from another individual or organization. Generally, open offers are made to current or prospective shareholders, allowing them to increase their holdings.

Open offers are designed to provide shareholders with an advantage, allowing them to purchase additional securities without having to compete in the market to do so, as they would in a more restricted offering. The offer also serves to counteract any dilution of voting rights that could be caused if the corporation issued more stock within a short period.

The issuer often selects a lead manager, an organization that acts as an intermediary between the issuer and the stockholders. The organization will manage the offer and be responsible for pricing the shares, marketing the offer to the public, managing the oversubscription and ensuring general compliance with regulations.

Open offers are an important capital-raising tool, but they also can be used to give a company more flexibility. Companies can increase their public float or use the additional funds to retire debt or make other strategic decisions. Issuers also may use an open offer to reward current shareholders by offering them priority to invest and discounts of up to 30 percent.

Therefore, a number of advantages come from conducting an open offer. Companies can raise capital quickly and efficiently, and the offer also allows shareholders to strengthen their ownership in the company without having to pay a premium for new shares in the open market.

Due diligence is essential prior to a public offering. Companies must determine the extent of the offering, determine the pricing of the shares, decide the window period of the open offer, and ensure that all regulatory requirements are complied with. Issuers should also consider the impact of any related party transactions (RPTs) such as management compensation, listing fees and other related costs that may be incurred in the offer process.

In conclusion, open offers provide companies with an important tool for financial management, allowing them to raise capital quickly in an efficient manner. Issuers can lay out the terms of the offer and set a period in which the shares must be purchased. It is important to conduct proper due diligence and ensure that all regulatory requirements are adhered to in order to ensure the success of the offering.