open the kimono

Also found in: Idioms.

open the kimono

A slang expression used to describe revealing all one's financial and other confidential information to a suitor who has expressed an interest in purchasing a company or some of its assets.The danger, of course, is gauging whether the suitor is serious or merely engaging in a spectator sport.

References in periodicals archive ?

In what might be our shortest yet most damaging report, we finally open the kimono of PolarityTE through the eyes of the FDA." Despite promising the release of data almost 1.5 years ago PolarityTE has yet to release any peer reviews or conduct clinical trials, Citron writes.

PolarityTE jumps 2% to $14.94 after Citron calls shares 'a zero'

As a result, litigation discovery can feel like being forced to open the kimono and expose the company's most valuable assets.

The Kimono Is Open: Strategically Blocking the View

To "open the kimono" is to share information, but be careful how you make this suggestion if you happen to be in mixed company in Hong Kong.