The doughnut brand’s return to the public markets follows millions of doughnut giveaways tied to the pandemic. :
Krispy Kreme Inc.’s shares soared in their first day of trading, giving the doughnut chain a much-needed lift a day after it was forced to downsize its initial public offering. The stock reversed an early decline to jump as much as 26% to $20.58 a share Thursday. The Charlotte, North Carolina-based company, which is owned by investment firm JAB Holdings BV, opened at $16.30, below the $17 IPO price. The roller-coaster debut reflects the volatile environment for restaurants as the pandemic subsides.