Deutsche Börse Updates Rules And Regulations For Neuer Markt - Free Float For Large Issues Reduced To 10 Percent - Index Rules Remain Unchanged

Deutsche Börse is adapting the rules and regulations for Neuer Markt to the changed market requirements, and expanding the rule for free float: As of May 31, a free float of 10 percent will be sufficient for companies with an issue size of more than 100 million euros to be admitted to the Neuer Markt segment.

With issues of this size, there is enough volume in the market, Deutsche Börse indicated justifying this step. The minimum free float of 20 percent is still valid for issues smaller than 100 million euros; free float of 25 percent is recommended by Deutsche Börse AG. The amendment does not affect the rules for inclusion in the Nemax 50 index, to which a free float of 20 percent still applies.

The free float is calculated on the basis of the share capital admitted to trading. Holdings from a priveleged allocation like "friends and family" and employee share programs are not counted towards the free float. A surplus allocation option (greenshoe) is also not taken into account.