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Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft), the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their potential, has issued debt securities for the first time in euros, in its debut listing on the Irish Stock Exchange (ISE). Its €550m notes, carrying a 2.625% interest rate and maturing in 2033, have been admitted to the Global Exchange Market (GEM), the ISE’s market for professional investors.
The GEM has experienced exceptional growth in 2013 and is widely considered to be the fastest growing market in Europe for the listing of debt securities. So far this year, the ISE has admitted 450 debt securities to GEM and at the end of April 2013, more than 1,500 instruments were listed and traded on this market.
On Microsoft’s admission, Gerard Scully, Director of International Primary Markets, said, “the listing of Microsoft’s notes on the ISE’s Global Exchange Market demonstrates the continuing popularity of the ISE as a venue for the listing of top-quality international debt securities. Given Microsoft’s strong presence in Ireland, spanning more than 25 years, this is a particularly significant listing for the ISE”.
Arthur Cox Listings Services acted as listing agent on this transaction.
