Speakers
Objectives of the session
This session will assess the importance of further developing equity markets for the financing of EU SMEs and the main barriers to the development of these markets on the issuer and investor sides.
This panel will also discuss the main policy priorities to support the growth of SME equity markets and whether they are appropriately reflected in the current CMU action plan.
Points of discussion
What is the present state of play of SME equity financing in the EU? How important is it to further develop equity markets for the financing of EU SMEs and achieving the CMU and does this differ across types of companies? Is developing investment in SME equity an appropriate goal for all investors in the present market and macroeconomic context?
What are the main barriers to the development of SME equity financing and investment in the EU and are these related to offer or demand factors? Do these barriers vary across the EU and what are the main challenges from an investor perspective?
What are the priorities for developing SME equity financing and investment in the EU? Are these priorities appropriately reflected in the current CMU action plan? Can market-driven actions be useful in some areas (e.g. sharing of best practices)?