“Upgrading his ranking Athens Stock Exchange with the aim of its return to the category of developed markets by the FTSE Russell house is excellent news for Greece”, the Minister of National Economy and Finance pointed out in his statement Kostis Hatzidakislast night, referring to this specific development, stressing that “it is the result of the positive developments in the economy, the positive prospects that are opening up but also the specific successful moves of the government in the field of privatizations”.

He also indicated indicatively “the increase in the share capital of PPC, the introduction of the shares of the airport El. Venizelos on the Hellenic Stock Exchange, the sale of Helleniq Energy shares. And above all – due to the size and special weight of the banks in the economy – the completion of the disinvestment of the HFSF from the systemic banks and also the developments in relation to the fifth banking pillar”.

As Mr. Hatzidakis pointed out, “the Hellenic Stock Exchange is heading towards joining the world’s leading capital markets. And this creates conditions for further introduction of capital into the country, improvement of financing conditions for listed companies, productive investments and new jobs”.

As it became known yesterday Tuesday, from FTSE House, Greece will be added to the Watch List for a possible upgrade from “Advanced Emerging” to “Developed Market” status.

According to the House, Greece meets the following requirements to obtain Developed Market status:

• the twenty-two quality criteria of the FTSE markets

• the minimum market capitalization and number of securities requirements, based on data as of the close on June 28, 2024

• has a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita rating of “High”