TSE President Barbara Stymiest said, "Today's announcement comes as no surprise to the TSE. We were briefed on the Quebec partnership over the course of our on-going discussions with NASDAQ. We welcome this initiative that has clearly set a precedent, raising the issue of reciprocal access for U.S. investors into the Canadian market. The TSE intends to press forward to gain equal opportunity within the U.S. market."
The TSE continues to be in discussions with exchanges both in North America and around the world concerning potential strategic alliances of its own, including the NYSE and NASDAQ. The TSE respects the interests of all parties and is not prepared to comment on the nature of these discussions.
Ms. Stymiest confirmed, "The agreement in principle between NASDAQ and Quebec will not preclude future discussions between the TSE and NASDAQ, should we determine that a closer relationship is warranted. Any relationship that we negotiate, with any alliance partner, will be to benefit the Canadian capital markets".
The Toronto Stock Exchange consistently ranks among the world's top exchanges by market capitalization and trading volume. In 2000, the average daily value of TSE trading has exceeded $3 billion. The TSE provides investors with a well-regulated, fair and accessible marketplace.
