Ottobock Achieves Largest Stock Market Listing of the Year in Frankfurt
Ottobock, a globally recognized manufacturer of prosthetics based in Duderstadt near Göttingen, launched its initial public offering (IPO) on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, marking the largest stock market debut in Germany for the year. The offering attracted significant attention from investors, with shares initially priced at 66 euros and opening trading at 72 euros, peaking at 73 euros per share during the first session. The IPO generated proceeds of approximately 800 million euros, surpassing all other public offerings in the country since the flotation of the perfume retailer Douglas in 2024.
The IPO involved the sale of roughly 12.2 million shares, which were highly oversubscribed prior to trading. These shares are now listed in the Prime Standard segment of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, making them eligible for inclusion in major indices such as those within the DAX index family. Following the IPO, approximately 19 percent of Ottobock's ownership is now in free float.
The company's leadership described the listing as a pivotal development in Ottobock's history, positioning the business to invest further in advanced technologies, particularly in the area of human-machine interfaces. The new capital is expected to facilitate research and development initiatives, supporting the company's ambition to set new industry benchmarks in prosthetics and bionics.
Ottobock is widely recognized for its contributions to the development of prosthetic devices and its longstanding involvement in supporting Paralympic athletes. The business claims the position of global market leader in prosthetics, with its products serving individuals with physical disabilities worldwide.
The majority of shares made available through the IPO were offered by the Näder Holding, which represents the interests of the founding Näder family. Proceeds from these shares primarily benefited the holding company. In the lead-up to the public offering, Ottobock secured investment commitments from prominent backers, including German entrepreneur Klaus Michael Kühne and a fund managed by the US investment firm Capital Group, who pledged to acquire shares valued at up to 125 million euros and 115 million euros, respectively.
Ottobock's recent financial performance supported the strong investor demand. In the first half of 2025, the company reported a significant increase in its core business earnings, with adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rising from 132 million euros to 175 million euros compared to the previous year. Revenue for the same period also grew, up from 666 million euros to 760 million euros.
The successful IPO not only strengthens Ottobock's financial position but also signals growing momentum in the German public markets for innovative health technology companies. With its expanded capital base, Ottobock plans to continue advancing its technology platforms and expanding its global presence, aiming to maintain its leadership position in the prosthetics industry.