SpaceX IPO leaves retail investors with too few shares and a tough hold-or-sell decision

Retail investors who clamored for shares in SpaceX 's blockbuster initial public offering received only a fraction of what many had requested, and are already split on what to do with the stock.

Across online investing forums, users complained of allocations as small as a single share despite requesting far larger amounts. Those who did receive stock are taking different approaches, with some selling into the company's market debut while others are holding for the long haul.

Marvin Jung, a 51-year-old investor who requested 1,000 shares through Robinhood and received just 17, opted to quickly sell his stake after trading began.

"I have exited my position of SpaceX stock at $160," Jung said. "It's struggling too much and can't find its footing. I'll continue to watch and return in about six months when the lockup period is over."

SpaceX shares rose another 6% on Monday, extending gains after the company's record-breaking Nasdaq debut. The stock surged 19% on Friday to close around $161, up from its IPO price of $135 a share, lifting the company's market value above $2 trillion.

Ross Cameron, 41, founder of trading education platform Warrior Trading, also came away with far fewer shares than he sought. He initially requested 2,500 shares through Schwab before increasing the order to 4,250 shares ahead of the deadline. He ultimately received 147 shares at the IPO price of $135.

"I would've liked to have gotten more shares filled because it would've increased my total profit, but I understand the demand was very high," Cameron said. "My plan is to hold the shares unless they break $150, and take profit if they get closer to $200 a share."

Cameron is also cautious about the months ahead, expecting a wave of selling pressure once lockup restrictions expire and additional shares become available for trading.