What is the London Stock Exchange?

What exactly is the London Stock Exchange for? And what does the future hold as bidders line up to acquire the company?

The London Stock Exchange is a market place where brokers and market makers who are member firms trade shares of public limited companies 2,860 companies worth £3,537bn, to be precise.

The two primary markets are the Main Market for established companies and the Alternative Investment Market (Aim) for small-cap, high-growth firms. Companies list their shares so that they can raise capital to finance their business.

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MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.