We spoke with Kristine Bastøe and Niels Siggaard-Rotendahl, the CEOs of Euronext Securities Oslo and Euronext Securities Copenhagen, about the Nordic ambition, the region’s unique strengths, and how Euronext is shaping the future of post-trade services in Europe.
A legacy of partnership and innovation
Euronext’s role in the Nordics is built on a foundation of trust and long-standing relationships. With a 40-year legacy in Oslo and 45 years in Denmark, Euronext Securities has established itself as a reliable partner for market participants, regulators, and the wider financial community.
Kristine Bastøe reflects,
Euronext is a leading market infrastructure, connecting economies and supporting the development of capital markets across Europe. In Norway, our 40-year legacy is built on trusted partnerships and a commitment to driving innovation and operational excellence for our clients and for the ecosystem. Over the years, the Nordic region has strengthened its international standing, attracting a robust and diverse base of international issuers and investors.
Niels Siggaard-Rotendahl adds,
In Denmark, we have established strong relationships over 45 years. Our experience has been instrumental in shaping Euronext’s approach to integration and harmonisation, ensuring we deliver efficient, client-focused services across Europe. The Nordics are a vital part of Euronext’s strategy, and our commitment to the region remains as strong as ever.
The Nordic perspective: digitalisation, trust, and collaboration
What makes the Nordic markets unique within Euronext’s European footprint? According to Kristine,
The Nordic markets are characterised by a high degree of digitalisation, transparency, and trust. Our tradition of close collaboration between market participants, authorities, and infrastructure providers has fostered innovation and resilience. By bringing this spirit to Euronext, the Nordics help drive the group’s efforts to integrate and streamline post-trade services, ultimately benefiting clients across all markets.
Niels adds,
One of the unique strengths of the Nordic region is the presence of robust mandatory pension schemes. Over time, these have accumulated significant wealth, making the capital markets highly attractive and vibrant. This is a key factor in the region’s continued growth and appeal to both domestic and international investors.
Both CEOs see the European vision as an opportunity for the Nordics to access greater scale, broader expertise, and new opportunities for harmonisation, while retaining the strengths and flexibility of the Nordic model.
Convergence and integration: harmonisation in action
Harmonisation is not just a buzzword in the Nordics – it is a strategic priority. Euronext Securities is actively aligning its services with European standards, introducing common platforms across its CSDs, and making it easier for clients to operate across borders.
Niels explains,
The Euronext Securities convergence programme is a significant step forward. By harmonising our systems and processes, we are making it easier for clients to access multiple markets through a single, unified platform. This reduces complexity, lowers costs and improves the overall client experience. Importantly, these efforts also help future proof the CSDs, ensuring we remain agile and resilient in a rapidly changing environment. Of course, harmonising post-trade services across the Nordics is not without its challenges, but the opportunities are substantial. By working together, we can create a more efficient and resilient post-trade environment and ensure that the Nordics remain competitive within the broader European landscape.
Preparing for T2S: Norway’s next steps
While Norway is not yet connected to the T2S platform, harmonisation remains a key priority.
Kristine shares,
We have a close dialogue with the Norwegian authorities on the matter of T2S. Once the decision is taken, the direction will be clear, and we can communicate the timeline for the strategic roadmap for Norway. The first delivery will be the launch of the common corporate action platform, which will bring harmonised processes aligned with European standards and improved client experience. Our aim is to ensure clients precent in the Norwegian market are well prepared to take advantage of the benefits when the time comes to connect to T2S. In the shorter end, we are preparing for the transition to T+1 in 2027, together with the rest of Europe.
Client-centricity and the future of post-trade
Client needs in the Nordics are evolving rapidly. Niels observes,
Clients are increasingly looking for seamless, efficient, and digital solutions. They expect high levels of automation, transparency, and the ability to access multiple markets through a single point of entry. At Euronext, we are investing in technology and working closely with clients to anticipate their needs. We are also supporting pan-European operations, making it easier for clients to operate across borders and benefit from the scale of the Euronext network.
Kristine adds,
We are seeing a growing demand for flexibility, security, and value-added services, such as tax services to support cross-border activities and data services. Over the next decade, I see post-trade services becoming even more integrated and data-driven, with a focus on delivering a truly unified experience for our clients, regardless of which Nordic market they operate in.
Looking ahead: the Nordic ambition within Euronext
As the conversation draws to a close, both CEOs emphasise the Nordics’ role in Euronext’s journey.
Kristine concludes,
The Nordics have always been a source of innovation, reliability, and collaboration within Euronext. Our region’s commitment to digitalisation and client service continues to set a benchmark for others. As part of Euronext, we are proud to contribute to building a more integrated and efficient European capital market.
Niels echoes,
The Nordics play a vital role in Euronext’s strategy and success. Our experience shows that by working together and embracing change, we can deliver real value to clients and the wider market. We remain committed to driving innovation and operational excellence, and to strengthening Euronext’s position as a trusted partner across Europe and beyond.