A stock exchange is a marketplace where securities such as stocks, bonds, and derivatives are bought and sold. These platforms connect buyers and sellers, ensuring liquidity, transparency, and fair pricing in financial markets. Beyond trading, exchanges also facilitate the raising of capital for companies through initial public offerings (IPOs). Their performance often reflects the economic health of a country or region, making them critical for global finance. Today, we’ll explore the 10 largest stock exchanges in the world by market capitalisation and their role in shaping the global economy.
Top 10 largest stock exchanges in the world (Overview Table)
The below table highlights the largest stock exchanges in the world, showcasing their vast market capitalisations and the number of companies listed. These exchanges represent economic powerhouses across regions, making them integral to the global financial landscape.
Stock Exchange
Market Capitalization (Approximately)
Year Founded
Location
Number of Listed Companies(Approximately)
New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)
$30 trillion
1792
New York City, USA
2,200
NASDAQ
$20 trillion
1971
New York City, USA
3,500
Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE)
$7 trillion
1990
Shanghai, China
2,000
Euronext
$6.5 trillion
2000
Europe
1,200
Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX)
$5.7 trillion
1891
Hong Kong
2,500
Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE)
$5.6 trillion
1878
Tokyo, Japan
3,900
Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE)
$5 trillion
1990
Shenzhen, China
2,600
London Stock Exchange (LSE)
$4.1 trillion
1801
London, UK
1,000
Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)
$3.8 trillion
1875
Mumbai, India
5,700
National Stock Exchange of India (NSE)
$3.7 trillion
1992
Mumbai, India
2,300
1. New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), located in New York City, USA, is the largest stock exchange in the world. With a market capitalisation of approximately $30 trillion and over 2,200 companies listed, the NYSE has become synonymous with financial excellence. Established in 1792 under the Buttonwood Agreement, the NYSE is home to many of the world’s leading corporations, such as JP Morgan, Nike, and Coca-Cola. Its trading floor on Wall Street remains iconic, symbolising the influence of the largest stock exchanges on global finance.
2. NASDAQ
The NASDAQ, also based in New York City, USA, holds a market capitalisation of approximately $20 trillion, making it a crucial part of the 10 largest stock exchanges in the world. Founded in 1971, NASDAQ revolutionised trading as the world’s first electronic stock exchange. Known for its tech-heavy focus, it lists over 3,500 companies, including Amazon, Tesla, and Meta. Its innovative platform underscores the dynamic nature of the largest stock exchanges globally.
3. Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE)
The Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE), one of the largest stock exchanges in Asia, boasts a market capitalisation of approximately $7 trillion. Founded in 1990, it reflects China’s rapid economic growth and lists over 2,000 companies, including giants like the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and PetroChina. The SSE is a key player among the 10 largest stock exchanges in the world, known for its dual-share structure catering to domestic and international traders.
4. Euronext
Euronext operates across multiple European countries, including France, Belgium, and Portugal. With a market capitalisation of approximately $6.5 trillion and over 1,200 listed companies, it ranks among the largest stock exchanges globally. Founded in 2000, Euronext’s pan-European structure makes it a unique force in global finance, fostering diversity across industries like energy, pharmaceuticals, and finance.
5. Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX)
The Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX), established in 1891, is a gateway for Chinese companies seeking global exposure. With a market capitalisation of $5.7 trillion and over 2,500 companies listed, HKEX is a major contender among the 10 largest stock exchanges worldwide. Its role in bridging Eastern and Western financial markets is exemplified by landmark listings such as Alibaba and Tencent.
6. Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE)
The Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE), Japan’s largest stock exchange, has a market capitalisation of $5.6 trillion. Founded in 1878, it lists over 3,900 companies, including Toyota, Sony, and Nintendo. As one of the largest stock exchanges globally, the TSE showcases Japan’s industrial and technological strength, attracting traders from across the world.
7. Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE)
The Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE) has a market capitalisation of approximately $5 trillion and is located in Shenzhen, China, and lists over 2,600 companies. SZSE was established in 1990 and focuses on smaller and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in the technology sector. Its ChiNext Board is similar to the Nasdaq, catering to growth-oriented and innovative companies. The SZSE is a vital part of the largest stock exchanges, playing a pivotal role in China’s economic development.
8. London Stock Exchange (LSE)
The London Stock Exchange (LSE) was located in London, UK. LSE has a market capitalisation of approximately $4.1 trillion and lists over 1,000 companies. It was founded in 1801 and it is one of the oldest stock exchanges in the world and a cornerstone of the global financial system. As part of the 10 largest stock exchanges, LSE is a leader in international financial services, energy, and mining sectors, hosting companies like BP, HSBC, and Rio Tinto. Its FTSE 100 Index serves as a benchmark for the UK’s economy and is closely followed by traders worldwide.
9. Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)
The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has a market capitalisation of around $3.8 trillion and it is located in Mumbai, India. It was established in 1875, it is the oldest stock exchange in Asia and a symbol of India’s vibrant financial markets. As one of the largest stock exchanges globally, BSE lists prominent companies like Reliance Industries, Tata Motors, and Infosys and over 5,700 companies. It also boasts one of the world’s fastest trading platforms, offering unparalleled speed and efficiency.
10. National Stock Exchange of India (NSE)
The National Stock Exchange (NSE), also located in Mumbai, India, features a market capitalisation of approximately $3.7 trillion and lists over 2,300 companies. NSE was founded in 1992, and it is known for pioneering electronic trading in India. Its Nifty 50 index is a benchmark for the Indian economy, covering top-performing companies across various sectors. The NSE is also a global leader in derivatives trading, attracting substantial volumes from domestic and international participants.
Trading stock exchanges with VT Markets
At VT Markets, traders can access these global financial hubs through Contracts for Difference (CFDs). By offering shares from major exchanges like the NYSE, NASDAQ, and LSE, VT Markets enables traders to explore diverse opportunities across regions and industries. Whether it’s the tech-heavy NASDAQ or the industrial leaders on the SSE, VT Markets offers competitive pricing, leverage options, and intuitive platforms to enhance your trading experience. Trade now with VT Markets!
