Changes To The UK Listing Regime – Will It Actually Make A Difference?

The recent financial crisis coupled with the market globalisation has brought to light various concerns regarding the current UK Listing regime. In particular, market participants have raised concerns over the lack of clarity in the different market offered by the FSA, and the potential for confusion within the market. Furthermore, given the ever changing nature of global markets, it is of paramount importance that the UK listing regime strikes an appropriate balance between investor protection and competitiveness. The cumulative result of these concerns has led to a review by the FSA and a re-vamp of the current UK Listing regime, with the majority of the changes coming into effect on 6 April 2010. The purpose of these changes is to increase the flexibility of the market whilst creating a more level playing field for both UK and foreign companies.