INTERVIEW | “We are looking for much more interoperability across the European markets, across different asset classes, but also with the US,” says Adam Kostyál, new CEO of Sweden’s securities exchange Nasdaq Stockholm since April – and confirmed speaker on the pan-Nordic panel of marketplace chiefs at PostTrade 360° Nordic, in Stockholm on 4 and 5 September.
“There is a lot of talk in Brussels about interoperational efficiencies”, explains Adam Kostyál when discussing post-trade activities. He stresses the importance of increased interconnectivity among markets to facilitate smoother transactions.
“From our perspective, we are looking at strengthening the post-trade offerings in the Nordics, to better support our local institutions across various asset classes,” the Nasdaq Sweden CEO adds. While he doesn’t provide specific details on how this will be accomplished, he affirms Nasdaq’s active engagement with stakeholders across different asset classes to achieve this goal.
Competing – not fragmenting
Beyond post-trade operations, Adam Kostyál underscores the need for ongoing improvement and development in both Swedish and European markets. “We have a number of initiatives across Europe, like the capital markets union,” he notes, “I think it’s important that we stay focused on identifying how to engage around these frameworks.”
He emphasises the importance of maintaining a competitive yet cohesive platform, avoiding further fragmentation within the EU. “It’s a balancing act in making sure that we are building and not dividing.”
Engagement required
So, what is on his wish list for the Swedish and European capital market? “Strong engagement, from the government and from different stakeholders,” Adam Kostyál says. He stresses the importance of collaboration to ensure a robust and inclusive market environment. “This is not something we build overnight by ourselves, it is something we build together. We’re looking for a proactive and engaged dialogue across various stakeholders.”
Adam Kostyál will participate in the CEO panel during PostTrade 360° Nordic in Stockholm on 5 September. He anticipates dynamic discussions on pivotal topics such as the capital markets union and the strategies for enhancing the competitiveness across European markets. “I think it’s good to come with an open mind and to hear about trends and key focus areas. I am looking forward to an open discussion with the community.”
Interested in the marketplaces? The PostTrade 360° Nordic 2024 conference on 4–5 September will feature Nasdaq’s President of European Markets Roland Chai on the Nordic exchanges CEO panel, 10:00 on Thursday 5 September. He will be accompanied by Øivind Amundsen, CEO of Euronext Oslo Børs, both interviewed by Kristian Gårder, Co-head of Equities at SEB. Get your free ticket here!
