Airtel Money listing shows London is still one of the best places to grow a company

Airtel Money's decision to list on the London Stock Exchange highlights London's continued status as a premier location for companies to grow and thrive, writes Lucy Rigby. The UK's capital markets play a crucial role in providing businesses with access to international investors and specialist knowledge, while maintaining high standards that foster investor confidence.

The government has implemented reforms to bolster the attractiveness and accessibility of UK markets, and Airtel Money's choice to list in London is a testament to its appeal. The deal marks the largest IPO in London since 2021 and underscores the demand for UK listings, as evidenced by recent offerings from Shawbrook Bank, Princes Group, The Beauty Tech Group, Meridian Mining, and the National Investment Fund of Uzbekistan.

Furthermore, the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) continues to support UK growth companies, with Rosebank Industries recently raising over £1.9 billion on the platform. London's ongoing success is evident in the fact that more than half of companies listed there return to the market to raise additional capital within five years, outpacing the Nasdaq and NYSE.

Airtel Money's chief executive, Ian Ferrao, emphasizes that London remains the top choice when considering all variables. The UK must continue to prioritize enhancing its capital markets, upholding trusted regulation, and leveraging the expertise of its financial services sector to maintain its competitive edge in the global market.