A stock exchange is a regulated marketplace where buyers and sellers come together to trade securities, primarily stocks and other financial instruments. It provides a platform for companies to list their shares and allows investors to buy and sell those shares. The stock exchange serves as an intermediary, facilitating the exchange of securities between buyers and sellers.

Top 10 stock exchanges by market cap

The main stock exchanges in the world include (the following data is of the year 2023):

1. New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)

Based in: New York, United States

Market cap: $25.00 trillion

The NYSE is the largest stock exchange globally in terms of market capitalization.

2. NASDAQ

Based in: New York, United States

Market cap: $21.70 trillion

Renowned for its emphasis on technology and companies with high growth potential, NASDAQ stands as the world’s second-largest stock exchange.

3. Euronext

Based in: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Market cap: $7.20 trillion

Operating across several European countries, including France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Ireland, Euronext is one of the largest stock exchanges in Europe.

4. Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE)

Based in: Shanghai, China

Market cap: $6.70 trillion

The SSE is the largest stock exchange in Asia and plays a significant role in China’s financial markets.

5. Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE)

Based in: Tokyo, Japan

Market cap: $6.46 trillion

Founded in 1878, the TSE is one of the most prominent globally.

6. Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE)

Based in: Shenzhen, China

Market cap: $6.22 trillion

Founded in 1987, the SZSE is one of three stock exchanges operating independently in Mainland China.

7. Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX)

Based in: Hong Kong, China

Market cap: $3.98 trillion

The HKEX acts as a gateway for global investors to access Chinese companies.

8. Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX)

Based in: Toronto, Canada

Market cap: $3.26 trillion

The TSX serves as the primary stock exchange for Canadian companies and is one of the largest exchanges in North America.

9. London Stock Exchange (LSE)

Based in: London, England

Market cap: $3.18 trillion

The LSE is one of the oldest stock exchanges and serves as a significant financial hub for Europe. The trading hours of this UK exchange are from 8:00 GMT to 16:30 GMT without launch break.

10. Deutsche Börse

Based in: Frankfurt, Germany

Market cap: $2.37 trillion

Deutsche Börse is considered as one of the first stock exchange’s in the world.