Switzerland-based European regional stock exchange operator SIX Exchange Group AG announced the successful closing of its acquisition of Aquis Exchange plc, London’s challenger stock market.
SIX already operates exchanges across the Swiss and Spanish regional financial centres.
“With this strategic acquisition, SIX is evolving into a truly pan-European exchange innovator at scale, with an aggregated market share of 15% and access to 16 capital markets across Europe,” said SIX.
“This positions SIX as the only exchange group providing listing venues in all major European financial centers, including Switzerland, the EU, and the UK.
“Together, the two businesses will unlock new revenue streams by offering a seamless trading experience across multiple venues.”
SIX CEO Bjørn Sibbern said: “The acquisition of Aquis marks a significant milestone in the evolution of SIX as a pan-European leader.
“With Aquis, we gain not only access to new markets but also the technology and expertise needed to drive innovation at scale.
“We aim to offer our clients a unified experience with ‘One Plug, Multiple Trading Venues’ – a single connection providing access to Switzerland, Spain, and the UK – ensuring more liquidity, better market access, and innovative trading solutions.”
Aquis CEO David Stevens said: “Joining SIX is an exciting opportunity for Aquis and our clients. Aquis has achieved great momentum in our mission to challenge across European capital markets, and we will be able to go further, faster, and stronger as part of SIX.
“We will continue to innovate in trading, to deploy cutting-edge technology, and to provide a tailored listings environment for the UK’s high-growth smaller companies, while further benefiting from the strength of the European reach and infrastructure of SIX. Together, we are uniquely positioned to shape the future of the European exchange landscape.”
Tomas Kindler, Global Head Exchanges, SIX, said: “Aquis is a key strategic building block for us to become a truly pan-European exchange, listing venue for growth companies, and trading technology provider. I’m excited about the opportunities we will pursue together.”
Aquis will continue to operate under its established brand, with its existing management team and business model.