Cisco Systems got its start in 1984 by selling routing equipment that helped computer networks made by various manufacturers talk to each other and exchange information quickly. That helped solve a growing problem in the nascent computer networking field. But Cisco, which launched its IPO in 1990, didn’t stop there. Cisco Systems (CSCO) used acquisitions, partnerships, internal innovation and marketing savvy to grow into a
After a red-hot first-quarter for IPOs, investors are throwing cold water on many new issues. Zoe’s Kitchen (ZOES), a fast casual restaurant chain, popped 65% in Friday’s debut. But just four of eight companies slated to start trading made it out of the gate. Enthusiasm for new issues has flagged with the overall market in a correction and several disappointing IPO debuts or post-debut stock action. The 16 IPOs scheduled to price
During much of the 20th century, if you asked people what the most exciting technologies of the future would be, robots would probably have been right up there with flying cars. For decades, they’ve appeared in movies and TV shows, essentially as slaves, often with superhuman abilities but without offensive moral implications. What wasn’t to like? The way robots have actually developed has been less cinematic yet more innovative.