In a recent interview, Stéphane Boujnah, the CEO of Euronext, Europe’s largest stock exchange, emphasized the pressing need for collaboration among European leaders to establish a unified stock market. Boujnah noted that the current state of the stock market is one of unrest, highlighting the urgency for decisive action in the financial sector. He acknowledged the busy schedules of leaders such as Friedrich Merz and Emmanuel Macron but asserted that further delays could hinder the progress needed to strengthen Europe's financial framework.

Euronext was established in 2000 from the merger of exchanges in Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels, and has since expanded by incorporating several other exchanges, including those in Portugal, Dublin, Oslo, and most recently Athens. Boujnah pointed out that Euronext stands as a formidable force in the European financial landscape, demonstrating a market capitalization of approximately 6.8 trillion euros, notably larger than Germany's stock market. This growth positions Euronext as a pivotal player in the ongoing discussions about a European super-exchange.

The conversation regarding the formation of a European super-exchange is not new; however, Boujnah's comments reflect a growing impatience within the industry for meaningful progress. As the European financial community grapples with various challenges, the call for unified action and leadership becomes increasingly critical. Boujnah's leadership at Euronext symbolizes the potential for a collaborative financial future in Europe, yet there appears to be a need for stronger engagement from political figures in making this vision a reality.