The World Federation of Exchanges, more commonly known as the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), stands as a unique international trade group supporting regulated securities exchanges worldwide. This entity fosters widespread access to financial markets and enhances the safety and soundness of the global financial system.
Key Takeaways
- The World Federation of Exchanges, headquartered in London, represents over 250 different exchanges and clearinghouses globally.
- WFE plays a pivotal role in promoting ideas and best practices throughout the financial services industry.
- Home to 59,400 listed companies, WFE members had an incredible total annual trading volume of $162.04 trillion as of 2021.
Understanding the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE)
The World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) operates from its headquarters in London, United Kingdom. Established in 1961, it is now an esteemed private industry group, representing more than 250 different exchanges and clearinghouses.
The WFE’s members are distributed across the globe as follows:
- Asia-Pacific: 37%
- Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA): 43%
- Americas: 20%
Member exchanges featuring nearly 59,400 listed companies saw an astonishing $162.04 trillion in annual trading volume as of 2021. Some of these member exchanges include:
- Australian Securities Exchange
- B3: Brasil Bolsa Balcão
- BME Spanish Exchanges
- Bolsa Mexicana de Valores
- CME Group
- Cboe Global Markets
- China Financial Futures Exchange
- China Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation Ltd.
- Deutsche Börse AG
- Hochiminh Stock Exchange
- Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing
- Korea Exchange
- London Stock Exchange Group
- Nasdaq
- National Stock Exchange of India Limited
- Shanghai Futures Exchange
- Shanghai Stock Exchange
- Shenzhen Stock Exchange
- Singapore Exchange
Goals of the Inspiring World Federation of Exchanges
The World Federation of Exchanges pursues the ambition of being the leading global advocacy group for companies facilitating the trading of financial assets. Facing disparate and complex financial regulations globally, the WFE aims to harmonize them across borders with smart regulation.
Its goals also involve delivering maximum value to its members mainly through important information dispersal and convening industry meetings. Noteworthy events such as The WFE General Assembly and Annual Meeting allow members to share industry insights and forge significant networks.
The Myriad Benefits of the World Federation of Exchanges
The WFE bestows several invaluable services upon its members. Publishing a vast array of securities markets statistics and 350-plus market indicators, the federation is a reservoir of useful information.
Actively facilitating idea exchange and industry best practices, the WFE convenes forums, debates, and conferences, addressing significant issues like cross-border regulation or high-frequency trading.
Also, through its Annual Statistics Guide, market participants can access valuable data, including total market capitalization of companies listed on various stock exchanges, and the overall value of globally issued bonds and derivatives. The WFE maintains a comprehensive database on initial public offerings (IPOs) and more.
Governed by a board of directors meeting regularly to oversee management, the WFE continues to play a critical role in supporting and developing well-regulated financial markets worldwide.
Related Terms: Stock Exchange, Financial Regulation, Market Indicators, High-Frequency Trading, Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).
References
- World Federation of Exchanges. “About Us”.
- World Federation of Exchanges. “Membership & Events”.
- World Federation of Exchanges. “Events”.
- World Federation of Exchanges. “Statistics”.
- World Federation of Exchanges. “2020 Annual Statistics Guide”, Click Download.
- World Federation of Exchanges. “Number of IPOs”.
- World Federation of Exchanges. “Board of Directors”.
