As part of World Investor Week, Euronext is proud to continue our Next Generation series designed to prepare young and first-time investors with the tools they need to build financial confidence. We believe that financial empowerment begins with a solid understanding of the fundamentals. 

This article is the third in a three-part series in celebration of World Investor Week designed specifically for first-time investors, with the aim of making investing more accessible, understandable and empowering for those just beginning their investment journey.  

One of the most important yet often overlooked fundamentals in investing is the stock market index. Whether you are just beginning your investment journey or simply curious about how markets function, grasping what an index is and why it matters can offer a clearer view of how economies evolve and investments grow. 

What is a stock market index? 

A stock market index is essentially a benchmark to measure how a specific group of financial assets, usually company shares, are performing at a given time. But indices cover more than just stocks – they can track bonds, commodities or even newer asset classes like cryptocurrencies. An index is comparable to a snapshot of the health and trends of a particular market segment. 

Indices serve several key purposes: 

• Tracking the overall health of a market or economy 

• Serving as the foundation for investment products such as ETFs (exchange-traded funds) 

• Acting as performance benchmarks for portfolios and investment strategies. 

The CAC 40^®: France’s economic heartbeat 

In France, the CAC 40^® stands out as the most recognised index and a symbol of national economic strength and resilience. Managed by Euronext, the CAC 40^® was created in 1987 with a base value of 1,000 points. Since then, it has reflected the changing tides of both the French and global economy from the tech boom of the early 2000s to today’s focus on luxury, innovation, energy, finance, health and defence sectors. 

In May 2024, the CAC 40^® reached a record high of 8,295 points, highlighting France’s evolving economic landscape. Companies like L’Oréal, LVMH, TotalEnergies and Michelin have been pillars of the index since its inception, demonstrating enduring market leadership. 

The AEX®: a broader view of the Dutch market 

In September 2025, the AEX^®, Euronext’s flagship index for the Dutch market, expanded from 25 to 30 companies for the first time since its creation in 1983. This change followed a thorough market consultation and reflects Euronext’s efforts to better represent the diversity and scale of the Dutch economy. By increasing the number of constituents and updating its methodology, the AEX ^® now offers investors broader exposure to leading Dutch-listed companies and improved index diversification. Alongside the CAC 40^®, the AEX^® remains one of Euronext’s most important benchmark indices, helping channel investment into national and international leaders based in Amsterdam. Euronext’s other national benchmarks include the MIB for Italy, PSI for Portugal, BEL 20 for Belgium, the OBX for Norway, and the ISEQ for Dublin. 

A reflection of the economy 

Indices  are living benchmarks. Their composition is regularly reviewed and adjusted to mirror the changing economy and the emergence of new sectors. Today’s indices are built on transparent, rules-based methodologies, giving investors clarity on what they are investing in and why. 

Euronext manages more than 1,800 indices delivering market coverage across blue-chip national indices, fixed income, ESG, crypto, and thematic sectors such as AI, healthcare, space, cybersecurity, and more, catering to the growing demand from investors seeking tailored exposure to various markets and strategies. 

How indices are created 

Creating and maintaining an index is a complex process involving financial engineers, analysts and data specialists. These teams set clear rules, calculate index values and ensure accurate, timely data dissemination, influencing billions in investment decisions worldwide. 

Indices can be broad or focused on specific themes such as clean energy, artificial intelligence, or sustainable investing. Many are developed in collaboration with banks, asset managers and other institutions to support investment products like ETFs and structured financial instruments. 

Investing with purpose 

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors have reshaped index design. Euronext pioneered low-carbon indices in 2008 and now offers ESG-focused versions of major indices like the CAC 40 ESG^®, AEX ESG^®, MIB ESG^® and BEL ESG^®. These enable investors to align their portfolios with personal values and global sustainability goals. 

Additionally, thematic indices tracking sectors such as healthcare, fintech or companies supporting job creation in France provide investors with targeted exposure to emerging opportunities. 

Why indices matter for new investors 

For those new to investing, indices offer insights into the market’s broad trends. Many investment products, including ETFs, are built on indices, and provide a cost-effective and diversified path to participate in economic growth, reducing risks associated with single stock exposure. 

Euronext joins the CAC 40^®: a milestone in our journey 

As of 22 September 2025, Euronext, itself a listed company, has proudly joined the CAC 40^®, marking a significant milestone in our transformation as a company from a national exchange operator to a leading, integrated European capital markets group. This inclusion recognises more than a decade of strategic growth and diversification, reinforcing our commitment to innovation, scale and supporting Europe’s financial future. 

Discover more about Euronext’s inclusion and our journey in the Euronext CAC 40^® introduction brochure. 

Learn more 

To learn more about how indices work and to access practical resources tailored for first-time investors visit the Euronext Education Centre. 

As World Investor Week continues, we explore one of the most accessible tools for first-time investors: exchange-traded funds (ETFs). 

This article is the second in a three-part series in celebration of World Investor Week designed specifically for first-time investors, with the aim of making investing more accessible, understandable and empowering for those just beginning their investment journey.   

As more individuals look for straightforward, transparent and cost-effective ways to grow their savings, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have become a key entry point to capital markets. Combining simplicity, diversification and affordability, ETFs are helping to broaden market participation. 

What is an ETF? 

An ETF is an investment fund that is traded on an exchange, much like a stock. Unlike individual shares, however, ETFs typically track an index or a basket of assets, such as equities, bonds, commodities or sustainable investment themes. 

By purchasing a single unit of an ETF, investors gain exposure to a diversified portfolio, helping to spread risk and reduce reliance on the performance of any single company or asset. 

For example, an ETF tracking the CAC 40^® allows investors to access France’s 40 largest listed companies with a single investment, offering a powerful tool for those looking to participate in broader market trends. 

Transparent, rules-based and accessible 

ETFs are typically designed to replicate the performance of a benchmark index. This approach, known as index-tracking or passive investing, follows a clear, transparent methodology and places the ETF manager’s focus on accurately tracking the index’s returns. The growth of passive investing through ETFs has reshaped global capital markets, bringing greater efficiency, liquidity and lower costs to investors worldwide. 

ETFs aligned with investor values 

Beyond traditional indices, today’s ETFs increasingly reflect thematic strategies and environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria, empowering investors to align their portfolios with their personal values and global trends. 

Whether focused on climate transition, digital innovation, healthcare breakthroughs or emerging markets, thematic and ESG ETFs allow investors to support causes and sectors they care about without sacrificing diversification or efficiency. 

A gateway to financial empowerment 

ETFs represent a critical entry point to capital markets, offering: 

• Simplicity in execution 

• Instant diversification 

• Transparent cost structures 

• Access to global and thematic opportunities 

Whether you are just beginning your investment journey, saving for long-term goals or exploring new strategies, ETFs can provide a flexible and powerful way to participate in European capital markets. 

A new era for ETFs in Europe 

ETF adoption continues to accelerate across Europe, supported by regulatory developments, investor preferences and advances in market structure. In September 2025, Euronext launched Euronext ETF Europe, a fully integrated, pan-European ETF marketplace designed to reduce fragmentation and boost growth across the European ETF market. 

Powered by Euronext’s Optiq^® trading platform, the initiative introduces a single European order book for ETFs across Amsterdam, Milan and Paris, streamlining access and improving transparency for both retail and institutional investors. 

By improving market structure and simplifying cross-border access, Euronext ETF Europe aims to serve all segments of the market, from large institutional investors to individuals making their first investment. 

Learn more 

To explore how ETFs and indices work and to access practical resources tailored for first-time investors, visit the Euronext Education Centre. 

Follow along this week for more insights tailored to first-time and young investors.

At Euronext, we believe in the power of the next generation to become the investors of tomorrow. As part of World Investor Week, we are committed to equipping young and first-time investors with the knowledge needed to navigate European capital markets confidently and responsibly. 

This article is the first in a three-part series in celebration of World Investor Week designed specifically for first-time investors, with the aim of making investing more accessible, understandable and empowering for those just beginning their investment journey. Stay tuned throughout the week for more insights for first-time investors.  

Building confidence through education 

Investing may seem complex at first glance, but understanding a few foundational concepts can help demystify the process and foster long-term financial empowerment. With more digital access to financial markets than ever before, now is the time for the next generation to build financial confidence. 

What does it mean to invest in stocks? 

When you invest in a stock, you are purchasing a small share of ownership in a company. This share, commonly called equity, entitles you to a portion of the company’s performance, whether through dividends (periodic payments of profit) or capital gains (selling the stock at a higher price than you paid). 

Stocks are traded on public exchanges like Euronext, which provide a transparent and regulated environment for buying and selling securities. These markets allow businesses to raise the capital they need to innovate and grow while offering individuals the opportunity to participate in that growth. 

A shift in mindset from saving to investing 

Many young people are familiar with the concept of saving money in a bank account. Investing, however, is a longer-term commitment that involves allocating your money into assets, such as stocks, with the potential to grow over time. 

The transition from saving to investing begins with understanding your financial goals. Are you looking to build wealth over the next decade? Save for a home? Plan for retirement? These goals will influence the type of investments and strategies you might explore in the future. 

The value of starting early 

One of the most significant advantages for first-time investors is time. By starting early, even with small amounts, you benefit from the power of compound interest. This means any returns you earn are reinvested, potentially leading to exponential growth over a long investment horizon. 

Additionally, long-term investing can help smooth out the short-term ups and downs (or volatility) of the market. While stock prices may fluctuate day to day, historically, equity markets have shown strong growth over the long run. 

Education before execution 

Before investing, it is important to understand key concepts that support informed decisions. These include: 

• What is a stock? A stock is a unit of ownership in a company. 

• How do stocks work? Their prices are influenced by supply and demand, economic indicators, company performance and global events. 

• What are the risks? All investments carry risk. Stock prices can go down as well as up, especially in the short term. 

• What are investment strategies? Investors may follow different approaches like long-term investing, dividend investing or index investing, depending on their goals. 

Understanding these fundamentals allows individuals to participate in the market thoughtfully, rather than reactively. 

The role of stock exchanges in the economy 

Stock exchanges like Euronext play a vital role in the financial system. They connect businesses with the capital needed to grow, while offering a platform for individuals and institutions to invest in the future of those companies. In doing so, they foster innovation, job creation, and economic development across Europe. 

By investing in listed companies, individuals are not only aiming for personal financial returns but also contributing to the broader European economy. 

Empowering the next generation of investors 

Through taking part in initiatives such as World Investor Week and our ESG commitment to financial literacy, Euronext supports early engagement with capital markets. We recognise the importance of informed participation, particularly as more young Europeans begin their investment journeys through accessible online platforms and mobile trading tools. 

Building for the future 

Strategic first-time investing focuses on building long-term financial resilience rather than chasing quick wins. As Europe continues to strengthen its capital markets, young investors will play a central role in shaping the future of our economy. Euronext is proud to take part in initiatives that support financial inclusion, promote education and drive greater participation in capital markets across generations. 

Stay tuned for more articles in our Next Generation series throughout World Investor Week, as we continue to explore the building blocks of responsible investing. 

Learn more about stock market fundamentals in our Education Centre. 

Follow along this week for more insights tailored to first-time and young investors. 

Access a broader of range of derivatives as Euronext reintroduces single stock futures contracts on Swedish and Swiss underlyings, as well as single stock dividend futures on Swedish, Swiss and American underlyings.  

Single Stock Futures (SEK, CHF)

Re-introduction of 57 single stock future contracts on Swedish and Swiss underlyings, expanding trading opportunities. 

Key benefits: 

• Initial margin efficiency: Benefit from an efficient portfolio margining approach which can significantly reduce capital costs. By holding a diversified portfolio of futures and options, optimise your margin requirements and improve capital allocation.  
   

• Complementary product suite: Take advantage of a combined offering andbenefit from strong margin offsets between related futures and options positions, further enhancing trading efficiency and flexibility.  
   

• Broader market access: Gain exposure to individual Swedish and Swiss equities, manage risk, and implement a variety of trading strategies in a regulated and transparent environment. 

Single Stock Dividend Futures (SEK, CHF, USD) 

Re-introduction of 113 single stock dividend futures contracts, expanding access to Swedish, Swiss, American underlyings. Manage dividend exposure and implement advanced trading strategies across a wider range of international equities with this broadened offering. 

Key advantages:  

• High multiplier: Manage larger positions with fewer contracts and benefit from enhanced clearing efficiencies with contracts featuring a 10,000 multiplier. 
   

• Euronext’s competitive pricing:  Benefit from the lowest fees for both on-screen and off-screen trading among European markets, supporting your cost-effective execution. 
   

• Harmonised corporate actions: Thanks to the European Corporate Actions Committee that ensures a unified approach to events such as dividends, splits and mergers, you can benefit from a standardised treatment of corporate actions, resulting in clarity and consistency.  

single stock futures on euronext

SINGLE STOCK DIVIDEND FUTURES ON EURONEXT

On 6 October 2025, Euronext proudly launches the first edition of the Euronext Trading Game, powered by NextWise, a flagship financial education initiative designed to equip university students across Europe with the knowledge, skills and confidence to navigate today’s capital markets. 

Over the next seven months, students across Europe will participate in a hands-on trading simulation accessible via mobile app or desktop. Whether they are finance students or entirely new to the subject, the game offers a unique opportunity to build practical investing experience in a safe and educational environment. 

Building the next generation of European investors 

As part of the Euronext Foundation’s commitment to promoting financial literacy and education, the Euronext Trading Game aims to democratise access to financial knowledge and encourage greater participation in European capital markets. 

Participants will manage virtual portfolios of equities and ETFs listed across Euronext’s seven marketplaces in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal, using 15-minute delayed market data. Students can take part individually with a virtual endowment of €50,000, or in groups of 5 to 7 members, managing a virtual portfolio of €200,000. A distinctive feature of the initiative is the interaction between individuals and teams, where individual players may allocate up to €30,000 of their portfolio to teams they believe are performing well, simulating real-world investing in funds or group strategies. 

The Euronext Trading Game also features a customised video course, introducing participants to core concepts such as inflation, interest rates, investment strategy and risk management. 

A competitive journey with real-world rewards 

The competition component of the initiative is structured in two phases: 

• National competitions (October 2025 – April 2026): Participants will be ranked monthly based on a range of quantitative criteria, including gross and risk-adjusted performance, portfolio diversification and compliance with UCITS rules. The initiative spans seven months, allowing even late-joining students to compete effectively. 

• European final (16 April 2026): National winners will advance to a European Pitched Battle, where they will present their investment strategies to a jury of market experts. The European winner(s) will receive an exclusive opportunity to shadow the local CEO of their Euronext market, gaining first-hand insight into leadership and decision-making at the highest level. 

All national winners will also benefit from certified financial training, mentorship from Euronext professionals and public speaking and presentation coaching, helping them sharpen their analytical skills and their ability to communicate with confidence. 

Fostering financial literacy across Europe 

Students will engage with peers from across Europe via a dedicated feed, share market insights and build a network of like-minded individuals interested in finance, economics and capital markets. The initiative’s inclusive approach welcomes students from all academic backgrounds, including those on Erasmus exchanges or in gap years, as long as they are enrolled in a university or higher education institution in one of the seven participating countries where Euronext operates exchanges: Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal. 

In line with Euronext’s commitment to financial education, diversity and inclusion, the initiative also helps raise awareness of Euronext’s early careers and internship opportunities, while strengthening Euronext’s brand visibility among future market participants and professionals. 

Financial literacy as a foundation for Europe’s economic future 

By giving students hands-on experience in portfolio management and exposing them to the realities of the financial market, the Euronext Trading Game aims to foster more informed, resilient and confident financial decision-making. 

Greater financial literacy is essential to empowering Europeans to engage meaningfully with capital markets, whether as savers, investors, entrepreneurs or future leaders. 

Register now and start trading 

Registration for the Euronext Trading Game remains open until 10 April 2026, with monthly performance scores offering multiple opportunities to rise through the ranks.  

To find out more and register, download the NextWise app  or access the platform online.