Is the sun setting on London stocks? New report shows LSE’s ‘breathtaking’ decline over past 25 years
The London Stock Exchange’s decline over the past 25 years has been “mind-blowing” and UK stocks are no longer seen as must-have assets, according to a damning report.
The Investor Forum, which represents shareholders holding more than £680bn of UK shares, including US giant Blackrock and Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, warned in its annual review that the UK market needs reform.
He said the UK had been hampered by disagreements over executive pay, the ESG agenda and the corporate governance tick box.
Decline: The Investors Forum, which represents shareholders holding more than £680bn of UK shares, warned in its annual review that the UK market needs reform
The Investor Forum, which represents shareholders holding more than £680bn of UK shares, warned in its annual report that the UK market needs reform.
Boards, investors and regulators must do more to attract investment, he said.
Chief executive Andy Griffiths said: “The decline in the relevance of UK stock markets over the past 25 years has been breathtaking.
“It is crucial that the aim of the reform recognizes the global nature of funding and seeks to create an environment in which UK-listed companies can once again thrive.
“We can’t just hope for a better result. Practical action is needed from businesses, investors and regulators if we are to create a vibrant market to attract capital.
It comes as the government works with regulators and the stock exchange to improve the rules governing UK markets and grow start-up businesses to a point where they would be listed.
