Euronext, Europe’s largest stock exchange operator, has submitted an offer for the full takeover of the Athens Stock Exchange (Athex Group), signalling a potential landmark move in the integration of Greece’s capital markets with the broader European financial system.
According to Ekathimerini, the Paris-headquartered company confirmed it is in talks to acquire up to 100% of Athex. The proposed acquisition underscores Euronext’s confidence in the Greek economy and its aim to expand its footprint in the Eurozone.
Led by CEO Stéphane Boujnah, Euronext operates major financial markets in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Portugal. It currently lists around 2,000 companies, with a combined market capitalisation exceeding €6.6 trillion. The group itself is listed on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, and its transaction clearing operations are based in Rome.
Sources close to the Greek government say Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Economy and Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis have been briefed on the proposed deal since its early stages.
While government officials have expressed a positive stance towards the development, they stressed the transaction is ultimately a matter between private parties and declined to offer further comment.
If finalised, the acquisition would mark a significant step in aligning the Athens Stock Exchange with Europe’s most prominent financial platforms.
Source: Ekathimerini
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