Remember the Google IPO way back when. To many it seemed like a bellwether--a call for more Dutch auctions. Then Morningstar followed suit and all seemed rosy. But today, it's clear that the momentum has faded. Dutch auctions still occur but only for small companies, which the big Wall Street firms are content to let pass. Not that pioneer William Hambrecht has given up--he has not. In fact, he's taking three large companies public, and Interactive Brokers Group will attempt a Dutch auction for its upcoming IPO. So maybe we'll see more activity going forward. For small companies, the idea is compelling. It is certainly an option to be considered.

For more:
- here's the Investment Dealers' Digest article (For FierceFinance readers)