{“attributes”:{“format”:“markdown,“value”:”# Discover the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSL) - Norway’s Financial Hub
The Oslo Stock Exchange (OSL) stands as Norway’s premier stock exchange, located in the bustling capital of Oslo. As a major regulated market for securities trading in the region, the OSL facilitates the trading of various assets such as equities, bonds, and exchange-traded products (ETPs). As of May 2022, its market capitalization was around $295.55 billion. This prestigious exchange, established in 1819, became part of Euronext in 2019 and remains a cornerstone of international investment, being a member of the NOREX alliance.
Key Takeaways
- The Oslo Stock Exchange is the primary stock market in Norway and the sole regulated securities exchange in the country.
- Founded in 1819, the OSL went public in 2001 and was acquired by Euronext in 2019.
- Although it predominantly lists Norwegian companies, the OSL encourages foreign company participation.
- The exchange operates fully electronically, providing a seamless trading experience.
Delving into the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSL)
Commonly known as Oslo Børs, the OSL serves as Norway’s central platform for trading a diverse range of financial products including equities, bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), ETPs, derivatives, and funds. As of April 2024, the exchange hosted 332 companies spanning various sectors, particularly energy, seafood, and shipping. Though Norwegian public limited companies form the majority, the exchange also attracts foreign enterprises.
Investors can engage with the Oslo OBX Index, which comprises the 25 most liquid securities on the exchange. Reviewed biannually, the OBX Index is updated based on market data from March and September.
The Oslo Stock Exchange employs a fully electronic trading system established in 1999, operating Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:20 p.m. local time. The exchange is closed on seven national holidays annually and hosts one partial trading day each year.
Historical Evolution of the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSL)
Initially founded as Christiana Børs in 1819 to facilitate trade among merchants, the exchange transitioned to an official stock exchange in 1881 and was renamed Oslo Børs in the early 1900s. Transitioning into the digital age, the OSL became a limited liability company (LLC) in 2001. Oslo Børs VPS Holding ASA, formed from a merger with VPS Holding, assumed its management in 2007.
Joining the NOREX alliance in 2000, the OSL aligned with stock exchanges in Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Iceland to offer a unified trading platform and attract global investment.
In 2019, after an acquisition battle with NASDAQ, Euronext completed its acquisition of the OSL, as endorsed by Norway’s finance ministry.
Additional Marketplaces Associated with the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSL)
Oslo Børs VPS Holding ASA oversees four additional marketplaces:
- Oslo Axess: A regulated market established in 2007 aimed at fostering smaller companies that do not yet meet the criteria for listing on the main exchange.
- Merkur Market: Launched in 2016 as a multilateral trading facility (MTF) for small and medium enterprises, featuring one of Europe’s fastest admission processes.
- Nordic ABM: An alternative bond market begun in 2005, governed by Oslo Stock Exchange rules for bond registrations.
- Oslo Connect: An OTC derivatives marketplace regulated as an MTF, requiring participants to sign agreements with Oslo Børs and a clearinghouse.
FAQs about the Oslo Stock Exchange
What Is the Oslo Stock Exchange Called?
Locally known as Oslo Børs, the exchange is also referred to as Euronext Oslo.
Is the Oslo Stock Exchange an EU Regulated Market?
Yes, as part of Euronext, the OSL is regulated by the EU despite Norway not being an EU member.
How Many Companies Are Listed on the OSL?
As of April 2024, the exchange lists 332 companies.
How Do I Buy Norwegian Stocks?
Trading on the Oslo Stock Exchange provides the fastest and most liquid access to Norwegian stocks. Alternatively, investing in Norwegian stocks via American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) on U.S. exchanges is an option. As of May 2022, only three Norwegian companies\u2014Equinor (EQNR), Idex Biometrics (IDBA), and Opera (OPRA)\u2014have ADRs listed in the U.S.
What Is Euronext Oslo?
Euronext Oslo is the current name for the Oslo Stock Exchange following its acquisition by Euronext in 2019. Euronext is Europe’s largest stock exchange group, headquartered in Amsterdam.
The Bottom Line
The Oslo Stock Exchange, owned by Euronext and regulated by the EU, is Norway’s only regulated securities exchange, hosting approximately 340 companies and various financial instruments. Despite Norway not being an EU member, the OSL is integrated into the European financial market framework, providing robust opportunities for investment.
Related Terms: Euronext, NASDAQ OMX, Securities Exchange, OBX Index, Nordic ABM.
References
- Tradinghours.com. “Oslo Stock Exchange”.
- Euronext. “Welcome to Oslo Børs!”
- Euronext. “Stocks Oslo”.
- Investing.com. “Oslo OBX (OBX)”.
- Euronext. “OBX Index”.
- Euronext. “Annual Report 1999”.
- Tradinghours.com. “OSE Market Holidays”.
- Euronext. “The History in Words and Pictures”.
- PitchBook. “Oslo Børs VPS Holding Overview”.
- LinkedIn.“Oslo Børs”.
- Nasdaq. “Oslo Stock Exchange to join the NOREX Alliance”.
- Reuters. “Nasdaq Pulls Out of Oslo Bors Battle”.
- Euronext. “Oslo Børs VPS”.
- Euronext. “Instruments”.
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. “Treatment of Merkur Market of Oslo Bors ASA under Rule 902(b) of Regulation S”.
- Euronext. “Nordic ABM”.
- Euronext. “Choosing Your Market”.
- Euronext. “Stocks Oslo”.
