Improved confidence in Stockholm and Helsinki Stock Exchanges

The annual surveys of confidence in the Stockholm and Helsinki Stock Exchanges show that both exchanges have increased their overall ranking from an already high level. OMX Exchanges continuously takes various actions aimed at increasing confidence in the stock market. One of these actions is to arrange annual surveys to assess confidence in the exchanges’ operations.

The result for year 2004 show that the aggregate rankings for the two exchanges have risen additionally from what was already a healthy level. Stockholm Stock Exchange’s ranking increased from 3.7 to 3.8 and Helsinki Stock Exchange’s from 3.6 to 3.7. The improved rankings resulted from assessments of the exchanges’ strategic development and management and their ability to combine the mission of generating a profit with their listing and surveillance activities. Stockholm Stock Exchange also received high grades for other key factors, such as its trading systems, transparency and trading rules. Helsinki Stock Exchange received high grades for its trading rules and neutrality. Nearly 90% of the respondents had an overall positive view of OMX Exchanges and showed confidence in its efforts to integrate the Nordic markets. Slightly lower rankings for year 2004 compared with 2003 were received for the exchanges’ ability to take actions in response to breach of contract, which was affected by developments within certain listed companies. In addition, the comments concerning Stockholm Stock Exchange reflect a desire that its management become more visible. At Helsinki Stock Exchange, the criteria that could be improved include liquidity and external communications. Exchange members, listed companies, investors and representatives of the media, interest organizations and authorities participated in the surveys of the two exchanges. Surveys were also conducted among the exchanges’ international members and investors. This is the third year that the survey has been conducted for Stockholm Stock Exchange, and the second for Helsinki Stock Exchange. For more information, visit: http://www.omxgroup.com/stockholmsborsen/en/fortroende-OMX-Exchanges.aspx For more information, please contact: Annika Molander, Vice President Communications, OMX Exchanges/Stockholm Stock Exchange, Phone +46 (0)8 405 66 10