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Understanding Your Options

The Markets

You’ve decided to take your company public, but which market is right for your business? 

The UK public markets can provide a powerful platform for raising capital, increasing visibility, and driving long-term growth. Recent reforms to the London Stock Exchange Main Market, together with continued innovation across AIM and AQSE, have strengthened the UK’s position as a global hub for both growth-stage and established businesses.

For companies with international ambitions, UK-listed companies can also cross-trade on the OTC Markets in the US, opening access to the world’s largest pool of investors.

Highlights

Insights & Guides

Comparing UK Exchanges

Preparing for IPO

How to IPO in 60 Seconds

Benefits of AQSE

Tailored for Growth Companies

Aquis Stock Exchange (AQSE)

AQSE offers a streamlined listing process and access to a wide pool of growth-focused investors. It has become one of the UK’s fastest-growing public markets — hosting more IPOs than AIM in the past two years — and is now a preferred choice for smaller, high-potential companies seeking capital and visibility.

  • Market Cap Range: £2m to £35m
  • Typical Fundraises: £750k to £15m
  • Approximate Timeframe: 3-5 months
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The Growth Market of the LSE

Alternative Investment Market (AIM)

AIM offers flexible regulation with the credibility and infrastructure of the London Stock Exchange. Since 1995, it has hosted over 3,800 companies and helped raise more than £135bn in funding. AIM is well-suited for ambitious businesses looking for capital and global visibility.

  • Market Cap Range: £15m to £500m
  • Typical Fundraises: £2m to £100m
  • Approximate Timeframe: 3-6 months
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For Established Global Leaders

London Stock Exchange Main Market (LSE)

The LSE Main Market is the premier platform for large, established companies. It offers a highly regulated environment and unparalleled international investor access, making it the gold standard for global listings. The Main Market is ideal for businesses seeking significant capital and global prestige.

  • Market Cap Range: £30m to £10bn+
  • Typical Fundraises: £50m to £1bn+
  • Approximate Timeframe: 4-8 months
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Access the US Investor Base

OTC Markets

OTC Markets provide non-US companies with an efficient way to cross-trade their shares in the United States, giving access to US investors without the complexity or cost of a full exchange listing. With tiered platforms such as OTCQX and OTCQB, businesses can expand their presence and visibility in the US market.

  • Market Cap Range: $10m to $1bn+
  • Approximate Timeframe: 2-3 months
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Find the Market That’s Right for You.

Your Path to the Right Market

Choosing the right market is a strategic decision shaped by your company’s size, sector, growth potential, and investor profile. It’s also about understanding where businesses like yours are finding success. In recent years, more than 250 companies have listed across Aquis, AIM, and the London Stock Exchange, with technology, fintech, and clean energy among the most active sectors.

First Sentinel’s team works with you to assess eligibility, compare market options, and design a strategy that positions your business for a successful listing and sustained investor appeal.

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Capital markets can be a powerful tool to raise funds and elevate your company.

If you’re exploring the possibility of a listing, we’d love to speak with you.


First Sentinel

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