Datasite's Merlin Piscitelli: Elections and listing rules could change London's long-term IPO outlook

'IPOs in London in 2025 could return'

The London Stock Exchange is no longer a top 20 global initial public offering destination - instead, it is now ranked in a similar position as Kazakhstan, the world's 54th largest economy.

Additionally, the City's IPO volume has slumped to just 2% of the $11.9bn raised so far this year across Europe. This follows last year's 40% year-over-year decline in LSE-listed IPOs where companies raised just $1bn, the least since 2009. While changes in listing requirements and a tamed market environment were supposed to help, it may be the UK general election, now called earlier than expected, that will give London's IPO market new competitive life. Election year pivots The UK general election can provide a new wave of political leadership and potentially greater financial in...