Euronext introduces new initiatives to strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy in energy, security and defense sectors

Euronext introduces new initiatives to strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy in energy, security and defense sectors

(IN BRIEF) Euronext has introduced a series of initiatives focused on enhancing Europe’s strategic autonomy in energy, defense, and technology. These initiatives include the launch of thematic indices targeting energy security, aerospace, defense, and strategic autonomy. Additionally, Euronext is updating its ESG indices and providing tailored financing solutions to support the growth of aerospace and defense companies. The company is also facilitating the issuance of European defense bonds and encouraging employee participation in local military reserves to further bolster Europe’s defense capabilities. These efforts align with Euronext’s commitment to supporting Europe’s long-term resilience and economic growth.

(PRESS RELEASE) AMSTERDAM/BRUSSELS/DUBLIN/LISBON/MILAN/OSO/PARIS, 7-May-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Euronext has unveiled a comprehensive set of initiatives aimed at enhancing Europe’s strategic autonomy in the sectors of energy, security, and geostrategy. This new phase of growth introduces a series of thematic indices, refinements to existing ESG methodologies, and tailored solutions designed to meet the financing needs of European aerospace and defense companies. These initiatives, which include facilitating defense bond issuances and encouraging employee participation in local military reserves, underscore Euronext’s commitment to supporting Europe’s energy transition, security infrastructure, and defense capabilities.

CEO Stéphane Boujnah emphasized the need for decisive action in the face of global geopolitical shifts, which have highlighted the growing importance of energy security, defense capabilities, and strategic infrastructure. “To secure Europe’s future, it is imperative that we enhance our energy supplies, defense readiness, and technological leadership. Our new set of solutions will offer European companies the tools they need to access capital markets and ensure long-term sustainability,” Boujnah stated.

1. New Thematic Indices for European Strategic Autonomy

Euronext is introducing a new series of thematic indices focusing on sectors critical to Europe’s autonomy. These indices are designed to help institutional and retail investors gain exposure to companies that play a central role in strengthening Europe’s self-sufficiency.

• European Energy Security Index: Tracks companies ensuring Europe’s energy stability across conventional, renewable, and nuclear sectors.
• European Aerospace & Defence Index: Covers aerospace, defense technologies, and advanced manufacturing leaders.
• European Strategic Autonomy Index: Provides targeted exposure to firms driving independence in defense, energy, and technology.

These indices are set to offer a comprehensive investment vehicle for investors looking to target high-growth segments while supporting Europe’s resilience.

1. Updates to ESG Indices Methodologies

In line with Euronext’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, the methodologies of its blue-chip ESG indices, such as CAC 40 ESG® and MIB ESG®, will be updated by June 2025. These updates will align with the latest regulatory standards and introduce new guidelines regarding defense industry involvement, ensuring the exclusions are consistent with international treaties on prohibited armament activities.

1. Tailored Solutions for Aerospace and Defence Companies

To address the growing financing needs of aerospace and defense companies, Euronext will introduce specialized financing solutions. These efforts will include the establishment of the European Aerospace and Defence Growth Hub by the end of 2025, designed to connect companies with the resources and networks needed for growth. Additionally, Euronext will host European funding days on 7-8 July 2025, aimed at helping entrepreneurs explore financing options and fostering industry collaboration.

1. New Solutions for European Defence Bonds

As the leader in bond listing, Euronext is launching a European Defence Bond Segment to simplify the issuance process for European defense bonds. This segment will provide a fast-track admission process and enhance retail investor access to defense bonds. Euronext’s secondary markets are also fully equipped to support liquidity for institutional and retail investors in defense-related debt instruments.

1. Facilitating Employee Engagement in Military Reserves

In an effort to promote national defense and strengthen Europe’s sovereignty, Euronext will support its employees’ engagement in local military reserves. The company will continue to pay salaries and social benefits for employees participating in training and reservist activities, fostering a culture of support and recognition for those who contribute to national defense efforts.

Euronext’s new initiatives represent a bold step towards reinforcing Europe’s strategic autonomy and enhancing its global competitiveness across energy, security, and geostrategy sectors.

About Euronext
Euronext is the leading European capital market infrastructure, covering the entire capital markets value chain, from listing, trading, clearing, settlement and custody, to solutions for issuers and investors. Euronext runs MTS, one of Europe’s leading electronic fixed income trading markets, and Nord Pool, the European power market. Euronext also provides clearing and settlement services through Euronext Clearing and its Euronext Securities CSDs in Denmark, Italy, Norway, and Portugal. As of March 2025, Euronext’s regulated exchanges in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Portugal host nearly 1,800 listed issuers with around €6.3 trillion in market capitalisation, a strong blue-chip franchise and the largest global centre for debt and fund listings. With a diverse domestic and international client base, Euronext handles 25% of European lit equity trading. Its products include equities, FX, ETFs, bonds, derivatives, commodities and indices.
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Disclaimer
This press release is for information purposes only and is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities. This press release is provided “as is” without representation or warranty of any kind. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the content, Euronext does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Euronext will not be held liable for any loss or damages of any nature ensuing from using, trusting or acting on information provided. No information set out or referred to in this publication may be regarded as creating any right or obligation. The creation of rights and obligations in respect of financial products that are traded on the exchanges operated by Euronext’s subsidiaries shall depend solely on the applicable rules of the market operator. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Euronext.

This press release speaks only as of this date. Euronext refers to Euronext N.V. and its affiliates. Information regarding trademarks and intellectual property rights of Euronext is located at www.euronext.com/terms-use.

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SOURCE: Euronext