Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)

Definition

The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) is Australia’s primary securities exchange and one of the world’s leading financial marketplaces. 

What is the Australian Securities Exchange?

The Australian Securities Exchange serves as a platform for trading a wide range of financial products, including stocks, derivatives, fixed-income securities, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and managed funds. 

The ASX provides a centralised marketplace where buyers and sellers can trade a variety of financial instruments. It operates electronic trading platforms that allow participants to execute trades efficiently and transparently. It’s the primary listing venue for Australian companies seeking to raise capital by issuing shares to the public. Companies that meet listing requirements can list their shares on the ASX and access capital from investors.

The ASX operates under regulatory oversight to ensure fair, orderly, and transparent markets. It enforces rules and regulations governing trading conduct, market integrity, disclosure, and corporate governance.

Furthermore, the ASX provides market participants with access to real-time and historical market data, company announcements, and other information essential for informed decision-making and market analysis. It has also established connections with other global exchanges to facilitate international trading and access to foreign markets. It offers services such as international securities settlement, clearing, and trading in foreign securities.

Additionally, the ASX continually invests in technology and infrastructure to increase market efficiency, resilience, and accessibility. It embraces innovations such as blockchain technology and digital assets to meet the evolving needs of market participants.