MSE hosts the WFE SME Conference 2018

Malta Stock Exchange hosts the World Federation of Exchanges SME Conference 2018

The scenic city of Valletta and the Malta Stock Exchange (MSE) was delighted to host the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) SME Conference 2018 on Monday 26 February. The Conference focused on the needs of SMEs and debated how exchanges can accommodate them through specialised product offerings and regulatory structures. The Conference also provided a platform for the WFE to showcase the best practice currently enforced by exchanges worldwide in respect of this important sector.

The WFE SME Conference was held at the Malta Stock Exchange with the keynote address being given by the Hon. Prime Minister of Malta, Dr. Joseph Muscat. The event included representatives from 20 exchanges with delegates coming from as far afield as Japan, India and Canada.

During the conference, the WFE launched its report on the challenges and opportunities around listing family-owned businesses, which are a key component of all thriving equity markets. Among other SME related topics discussed was also the MSE’s Prospects MTF, one of the three markets operated by the MSE which is specifically designed to help SME growth through capital market financing

Joe Portelli, Chairman of the Malta Stock Exchange said, “SMEs are recognised around the world as important enablers of economic growth, creating jobs and generating prosperity. However, they need finance and support to help them realise their full potential.”

“The WFE SME Conference 2018 gathers representatives from across the world to acknowledge the importance of the SME market and discuss how we can collectively further support their development.”

“The Maltese Stock Exchange strives to create opportunities and provide proper access to funding for SMEs through our existing Prospects MTF. We are keen to share our best practice and to learn from fellow conference participants about how we can better meet the needs of enterprising SMEs.”