Venture Global's shares opened nearly 4% below their initial public offering price in a subdued NYSE debut on Friday, giving the LNG exporter a valuation of $58.2 billion and reinforcing the cautious approach of investors to new listings.

Venture Global launched its initial public offering with a lofty goal: Raise up to $2.3 billion at a $110 billion valuation in the biggest stock-market debut since summer. The market had different plans.

Energy company Venture Global prices 70 million shares at $25 — the middle of its reduced $23-$27 price range.