Key facts
- The London Stock Exchange (LSE) is preparing for up to 20 FTSE 100 companies to delist for US listings.
- AstraZeneca's "upgrade" of its US listing is cited as an influence on this potential exodus.
- The UK Treasury could lose an estimated £2 billion in stamp duty revenue.
- The potential delistings involve companies currently listed on the FTSE 100 index.
The London Stock Exchange (LSE) is bracing for a potential scenario where up to 20 companies currently listed on the FTSE 100 index might shift their primary listings to New York. This anticipated exodus is reportedly being driven by factors such as AstraZeneca's recent "upgrade" of its US listing. The LSE's preparation for this eventuality highlights concerns about the competitiveness of the London market. A significant number of FTSE 100 firms moving their primary listings to the US could have substantial financial implications for the UK. Specifically, the UK Treasury could face an estimated loss of £2 billion in stamp duty revenue. This potential revenue shortfall underscores the economic impact of such listing shifts and raises questions about the factors attracting companies to list in New York over London.