During the Asecap conference in Vienna SSBM Professor of Financial has visited Madrid Stock Exchange (Bolsa de Madrid). Professor Silic teach students of SSBM about stocks issuance on primary and secondary markets, stocks valuations and corporate finance using common, preferred stocks and derivatives on its regular online or onsite lectures on SSBM campuses in corporate finance.
During a recent trip to Madrid, Professor Silic had the opportunity to visit one of Europe’s most historic and iconic financial institutions—the Madrid Stock Exchange. Located in the heart of the Spanish capital, this neoclassical landmark has stood since 1893 and continues to serve as a cornerstone of Spain’s financial system.
Founded in 1831, the Madrid Stock Exchange plays a key role in the Spanish and European markets. Today, it is part of Bolsas y Mercados Españoles (BME), which operates all four major Spanish stock exchanges. In 2024, the market capitalization of companies listed on the Bolsa de Madrid stood at over €1.2 trillion, making it one of the largest exchanges in Southern Europe.
One of the most recognizable indices it hosts is the IBEX 35, which includes the 35 most liquid Spanish stocks. Companies such as Santander, Iberdrola, Telefónica, and Inditext (owner of Zara) reflect the diverse and dynamic nature of the Spanish economy. As of the end of 2023, the IBEX 35 had an average daily trading volume of approximately €2.5 billion, highlighting the liquidity and investor interest in the market.
Walking through the exchange’s elegant main hall—adorned with classical columns, intricate frescoes, and modern digital trading boards—I was struck by how tradition and innovation coexist within its walls. While most trading is now electronic, the building remains a powerful symbol of economic continuity and resilience.
The experience offered a deeper understanding of how capital markets contribute to national development, support entrepreneurship, and attract foreign investment. In 2023 alone, over €38 billion was raised through equity and debt issuances via BME platforms, supporting businesses of all sizes.
Visiting the Madrid Stock Exchange was more than a tour of a historical site—it was a window into the living heart of Spain’s financial future. For any business leader, student of finance, or curious traveler, it offers a powerful reminder of the importance of well-functioning capital markets in a globalized economy.
Overall, Madrid is not only an important player in football with Real Madrid but Stock Exchange is also an important player in the global financial markets, providing investors with access to a wide range of products and services. Its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and innovation has helped to make it a leading stock exchange in Europe, and it is likely to continue to play an important role in the years to come.