For the last 2 years, the Malta Stock Exchange (MSE) has invested in increasing its international connectivity to boost both of its main lines of business - the Admission to Listing and subsequent trading business and its Central Securities Depository (CSD) which also forms part of the core Exchange operations. The adoption of the Xetra trading platform on the Exchange side of its operations, and the development of its Clearstream Banking relationship on the Depository custody side have created new and exciting avenues for business development.
Companies seeking an EU listing address in a well-regulated, cost effective domicile that enjoys a good reputation, sound economic performance, skilled English speaking professionals, and a very comfortable environment could consider Malta as an ideal location. The Malta Stock Exchange recently celebrated its 21st birthday by launching its international strategy to open up its mostly domestic market to international opportunities. The EU Passporting directive allows companies listed under the regulatory framework in Malta to opt to have their instruments admitted to listing on the Malta Stock Exchange, and traded anywhere in the EU, or on the MSE's own trading platform which is now operated through the internationally accessible Xetra platform operated by Deutsche Boerse in Frankfurt.
Central Securities Depository services are currently being offered to listed companies in a dematerialized environment, with full access to corporate action, notarial and administrative services. However, more and more unlisted companies operating within the EU are seeking to use the Depository services because the MSE CSD is connected to global network of depositories through its Clearstream link, and its professional services are being found to be surprisingly cost-effective.
Of course, companies may consider taking up any one part of the MSE's service offering or the complete value chain from admission to listing, to trading, to clearing and settlement, to depository and custodial services. This is in line with the 'un-bundling' of the MSE's services making its package of services as user-friendly and flexible as possible. Add the fact that the MSE is a small, young and well-focused exchange and you have a winning combination of exchange and depository services available from a reputable and well-regulated EU address.
For more information, please contact Cliff Pace, Product and Business Development Manager at the Malta Stock Exchange on borza@borzamalta.com.mt or call (00356) 21244051.
www.borzamalta.com.mt
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