What does the term "underwriting" refer to in ECM?

Underwriting in the context of Equity Capital Markets (ECM) refers to the agreement where a financial institution, typically an investment bank, raises capital for a company by issuing securities, such as stocks or bonds. This process involves several key responsibilities for the underwriter, including pricing the securities, buying the issue from the company at a set price, and then selling them to investors. Essentially, underwriting serves as a mechanism through which firms can access the capital markets to raise funds for growth, acquisitions, or other corporate uses.

This choice captures the essence of what underwriting entails in ECM, emphasizing the role of financial institutions in bridging companies seeking capital with investors willing to provide it through the purchase of issued securities. By defining underwriting this way, it highlights the importance of this function in facilitating the flow of capital within the economy.