Going public is no longer just for large companies. SMEs now have more advantages than ever in listing on specialised stock markets: they are more accessible, less costly and have lower regulatory barriers. This new reality opens the door for small and medium-sized companies to boost their growth, attract investment and position themselves as leaders in their respective sectors, nationally and internationally.
To this end, from Gesvalt, together with ARMANEXT, a specialist in advising SMEs on their entry into the securities markets; and PwC Spain, we have developed the “Practical guide for the incorporation of SMEs into alternative markets”It is the first to offer a comprehensive analysis and practical recommendations designed to accompany small and medium-sized enterprises in their process of accessing securities markets specialising in growing SMEs.
A guide at a key moment for Europe's SMEs
This guide is published at a key moment, when European authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to make access to European Union (EU) capital markets simpler and more attractive for companies, especially for small businesses. This effort is part of a broader strategy to develop more agile, liquid and accessible markets, with the aim of providing small and medium-sized enterprises with effective tools to grow and compete in a global environment.
In this context, the guide aims to provide a practical resource to facilitate the transition of SMEs into these markets, fostering their capacity to take advantage of the financing and expansion opportunities they offer.
A holistic approach for SMEs seeking listing
The guide addresses in a practical way all the key aspects that an SME needs to consider in order to go public:
- Financial and legal preparednessessential prerequisites for an orderly and seamless transition.
- Adaptation to transparency and corporate governance standardsThe following are essential for attracting and retaining investors.
- Building a strong and coherent corporate storyKey to building trust and enhancing investor relations.
The objective is to provide companies with the necessary tools to decide whether listing on a niche market is the right way to achieve their growth objectives and, if so, to guide them on the most appropriate processes and markets to maximise their profits.
Strategic benefits of going public
The guide also highlights the strategic advantages of this process:
- Diversification of funding sourcesaccess to new investors.
- Increased visibility and credibilitystrengthening its competitive position.
- Boosting sustainable growthstrengthening its capacity to face future challenges.
- Growth via acquisitionsusing shares as a bargaining chip in acquisitions.
- Professionalisation opportunitiesImproved corporate governance structure.
- Strengthening the brandAttracting customers, strategic partners and talent.
A resource for the future of business
“Going public is not only a financial opportunity, but also a strategic tool that can transform the way SMEs face market challenges,” stress the heads of Gesvalt, ARMANEXT and PwC.
Through this initiative, the three organisations seek to raise awareness among business leaders of the added value of listing on niche markets, while providing a practical resource for companies to make informed and strategic decisions.