London Stock Exchange: Listing Requirements and IPO Guide

Headquarters

London, United Kingdom

Region

Europe

Market Focus

International & Growth

Overview

The London Stock Exchange is one of the world's oldest exchanges, with origins in seventeenth-century coffee house trading. It operates two principal markets: the Main Market for larger, established companies, and AIM, designed for smaller and growing businesses.

London has historically attracted a high proportion of international listings, functioning as a venue for companies well beyond the United Kingdom.

Known For

Financial services, mining, and energy listings
AIM as a route to market for smaller growth companies
A notably international listed company base
Strong institutional and pension fund participation

Listing Considerations

AIM carries lighter regulatory requirements than the Main Market
AIM companies must retain a nominated adviser on an ongoing basis
UK and EU regulatory frameworks diverge in areas relevant to listing
Time zone position bridges Asian and American trading hours

Key Facts

Founded

1801 (trading origins in the 1690s)

Operator

London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG)

Regulator

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)

Main Index

FTSE 100

Currency

Pound sterling (GBP)

Trading Hours

8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. UK time, Monday–Friday

Market Segments

Main Market (ESCC and other categories), AIM

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Listing Requirements

One main category for operating companies since July 2024: equity shares in commercial companies (ESCC)
Minimum expected market capitalisation of £30 million
At least 10% of shares in public hands (free float)
FCA-approved prospectus
Shares must be freely transferable and fully paid
Smaller companies can use AIM, which has no minimum size or free float

Headline Main Market requirements from the FCA's UK Listing Rules, checked November 2026. Confirm current requirements before applying.

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