The Role of Equity Markets

Abstract

The relationship between financial markets and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is complex and involves a wealth of issues. At the company level, going public is one of the most important decisions a firm may take. Listing on the public market has a profound impact on a company’s life because it extends financing sources, drives deep organisational changes and exposes management’s actions to the scrutiny of the market. At the macroeconomic level, efficient equity markets, making an important contribution to general financial development, should foster the competitiveness of an economy and its long-term growth.