Nasdaq’s Nordic bond markets reached a new record in 2017, signalling a continued strong interest in corporate bonds across the region.
The volume of corporate bonds listed on the Nordic markets surged 9% compared to the year prior bringing, the total value to €74 billion.
Ann-Charlotte Eliasson, head of Nordic fixed income listings at Nasdaq, explained the exchange operator is seeking to create an efficient platform for companies looking to raise capital in fixed income markets, with a particular focus on sustainable bonds.
Nasdaq’s Nordic sustainable bond market raised €1.7 billion in 2017, an increase of 81% compared to 2016.
In response to the growth and to allow more companies to raise capital through sustainable bonds, the exchange is to launch Nasdaq First North Sustainable Bonds.
“By launching the Nasdaq First North Sustainable Bonds market, we hope that issuers will gain access to a wider pool of investors, while we at the same time are meeting an increased demand for green bonds among market participants,” Eliasson commented.