'We offer higher valuations'

NYSE Euronext operates the world’s most diversified exchange group with exchanges located in the US and Europe. Lisette Spaanbroek, Managing Director, Listing, NYSE Euronext, speaks to Rishi Joshi on why the group is now aggressively courting Indian companies, including the SMEs. Excerpts:

Q. How important is India for the NYSE group?
A. India is a big focus area for us. We are trying to explain to Indian companies why our menu of exchanges is the ideal platform for them for an international listing. In India, we have observed there is little awareness about the Euronext brand and we want to change that. In fact, using our platform companies listed on NYSE can also go in for a fast path crosslisting in Europe on NYSE Euronext. The US SEC documentation satisfies vast majority of EU requirements.

Q. You are also approaching Indian SMEs to list on your exchanges. What has been the response?
A. A lot of the smaller Indian companies have shown interest in listing on NYSE Euronext exchanges. Besides directly interacting with the SMEs, we are now talking to several intermediaries like industry bodies and law firms to spread the message. A listing on our platform gives a company a global profile. Beside many Indian companies are aggressively going in for global mergers and acquisitions (M&As) where stock can be used as currency.

Q. There is a perception that NYSE Euronext exchanges are preferred by the old economy companies.
A. Our international franchise includes companies from a diverse set of industries, including telecom, technology, financial services, pharma and energy sectors. We offer Indian companies deeper liquidity, higher valuation and broader research coverage compared to other exchanges like Nasdaq and LSE.