WFE’s 2025 Priorities: Transparency, ESG, Innovation, Regulation Of Public And Private Markets 

The World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), representing over 250 market infrastructures, has announced its priorities for 2025. These were decided by the WFE Board, comprising 18 market infrastructure leaders, during a recent meeting. The focus areas include market transparency, ESG leadership, technological innovation, and regulation of public and private markets.The WFE plans to advocate for regulations ensuring fairness in all trading environments. It will focus on aligning incentives for listing and trading transparently. The organization aims to protect investors and reinforce the value of regulated marketplaces.Nandini Sukumar, CEO of the WFE, said, “We will continue to champion the sustainable growth of public markets and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure their ongoing health and robustness, given their important economic and social role to the global economy.”The WFE will promote Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices by providing practical guides for securities issuers and derivatives markets. The organization intends to support industry-wide adoption of clear ESG disclosures and transitions.Technological innovation remains central. The WFE will work with regulators to address the use of Artificial Intelligence in market operations, focusing on security and resilience. Efforts will aim to enhance technological standards while protecting market participants.The WFE will also examine the relationship between public and private markets. With private markets becoming more accessible, the organization seeks to optimize their interaction with public markets. The goal is to highlight the advantages of public, regulated trading systems.The WFE plans to address changes affecting clearinghouses and central counterparties (CCPs). It will advocate for CCPs amidst new regulations impacting margin practices and clearing operations. The organization will ensure the voice of CCPs is heard in policy discussions.The WFE’s Market Infrastructure Certificate program will continue into its third year. The organization aims to meet the educational needs of future industry leaders. The program will provide insights into market structures and operations.The WFE will collaborate with regulators and stakeholders to promote robust, transparent, and resilient market structures. It will work to ensure efficient market operations that meet the needs of issuers, investors, and participants.The priorities reflect the WFE’s commitment to safeguarding market integrity, fostering transparency, and supporting sustainable growth. The organization will engage with industry participants to strengthen trust in global markets.