More than 320 members of the small and mid-size quoted company community attended the Quoted Companies Alliance’s (QCA) Annual Dinner yesterday (20 September 2018) at the Dorchester Hotel in London. Guests included company directors, investors, market operators, journalists, policymakers and regulators.
The event was sponsored by London Stock Exchange plc, with BoardEx/The Deal as supporting sponsor and Winterflood Securities sponsoring the after-dinner drinks.
Nikhil Rathi, CEO, London Stock Exchange plc, said to attendees:
“The UK’s small and mid-cap companies are key drivers of growth for our economy – creating jobs, and driving innovation and prosperity for us all. London IPO activity over the past year is testament to the enduring strength of UK plc and the benefits of long-term patient equity capital to UK economic growth.
“London Stock Exchange Group congratulates the Quoted Companies Alliance for playing a leading role over many years in championing the interests of quoted companies across the country. We are delighted to once again support the QCA Annual Dinner, celebrating the achievements of the growth companies that form the backbone of our economy.”
Gervais Williams, Chairman of the Quoted Companies Alliance (and Senior Executive Director, Miton Group Plc) addressed attendees. He said:
“Over recent years we’ve been quietly working some magic in the UK. A combination of players, including the Quoted Companies Alliance, fund managers, the Government, and London Stock Exchange, have contributed to the UK retaining a vibrant infrastructure for smaller listed companies. In contrast to other countries, this is near unique.
“Of course, Brexit will pose both threat and challenge, but I’m an optimist and believe that funding our small-caps will improve the balance of our economy.
“This evening is a celebration of the vigour and successes of our growth sector and it’s great to see so many of our peers supporting the Quoted Companies Alliance and celebrating the health of the small-cap ecosystem. I especially thank London Stock Exchange for their support.”
Tim Ward, Chief Executive of the Quoted Companies Alliance, commented:
“We head towards 2019 wary of political uncertainty but optimistic about the prospects of the UK’s small and mid-sized companies, who we know remain confident of riding out periods of disruption. The growth company ecosystem is a valuable asset that is essential to the future of the UK economy.
“We are extremely grateful for the support of London Stock Exchange, as well as those quoted companies, advisory firms, policymakers, regulators, media outlets and others that comprise such a vibrant market.”
