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Quiet period

Also called: quiet period

In one line

A window around an IPO when the company and insiders must limit public statements to avoid improperly promoting the stock.

In plain English

Before and just after going public, regulators restrict what the company and insiders can say, to keep the offering fair. It overlaps with, but is separate from, the trading lock-up.

If you were explaining it to a 5-year-old

Around the shop's grand opening, everyone has to stay quiet and not hype the toys, to keep things fair.

Why it matters when you sell

The quiet period mainly limits communications, but it's part of the IPO rulebook that governs the run-up to when you can sell.

Related terms

Initial public offering (IPO)Lock-up periodForm S-1Roadshow

Put it to use

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Sources

Primary references for this term: US SEC / Investor.gov. Our definitions are written in plain English and kept evergreen — see the glossary methodology. General information, not advice.

Educational information only — not financial, tax or legal advice, and not an offer to buy or sell any security. Definitions are general; your own documents and local law govern your situation. PrivateTechShares is independent and not a broker or marketplace.