Euronext to Make Athens Stock Exchange Main Hub for Southeast Europe

Euronext has unveiled plans to transform the Athens Stock Exchange (ATHEX) into its central hub for Southeastern Europe, following the announcement of its acquisition of the Greek exchange on Thursday.

Speaking to international media, Euronext CEO Stéphane Boujnah described the deal as “value-accretive from the first year,” and praised the Greek economy for its “impressive progress.” The acquisition, he said, significantly strengthens Euronext’s strategic positioning while providing long-term benefits to the Greek market.

“The Athens Stock Exchange will become even more dynamically integrated into European and global capital flows,” Boujnah stated, highlighting Euronext’s commitment to deepening the exchange’s role within the broader European financial system.

According to reliable information from the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA), Boujnah emphasised that the transaction opens “new avenues for future growth” for both sides and is expected to generate sustainable value. The inclusion of ATHEX in Euronext’s liquidity pool will provide Greek issuers and investors with greater international visibility and access, he added.

From 2020 to 2024, ATHEX saw a 70% increase in net revenue, reaching €52 million, while EBITDA tripled to €23.7 million—growth Boujnah attributed to Greece’s economic recovery and a favourable macroeconomic environment.

“The Greek economy is expected to continue driving activity at the Stock Exchange, promoting transparency in asset valuation and increasing the market’s international appeal,” Boujnah noted.

He also confirmed that the acquisition is expected to yield €12 million in annual cash synergies by the end of 2028, with restructuring costs estimated at €25 million.

The deal represents a major vote of confidence in Greece’s economic trajectory and is poised to position Athens as a vital financial gateway between Southeastern Europe and broader global markets.

(Source: Amna)