Big Bang
The 'Big Bang' refers to the deregulation of the London Stock Exchange, which took place on 27 October 1986.
The 'Big Bang' refers to the deregulation of the London Stock Exchange, which took place on 27 October 1986. As a result, foreign firms were allowed to buy UK stockbrokers; fixed share-dealing commissions were scrapped; and firms were allowed to act as both brokers for clients and deal for themselves. At the same time, the open outcry system of the old London Stock Exchange trading floor was replaced with computerised trading.
The changes are seen as among the most important factors leading to the City's current position as a top global financial centre. Traditional brokerages vanished, paving the way for today's huge investment banks, while, most importantly for the private investor, competition drove down share dealing costs.
See Tim Bennett's video tutorial: What was the Big Bang?
MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
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.
-
Is the Financial Conduct Authority really contacting you? How to spot a scam
Fraudsters are impersonating the City watchdog to steal money from older people. Here is how to spot the scammers.
-
What is crypto?
You may well have heard of cryptocurrencies, but it’s important to understand how these risky assets work before diving in
-
London Stock Exchange exodus: which companies could be next to go?
As many companies exit London, the steady trickle of stocks listing elsewhere could turn into a stampede. Who will be next, and what does this mean for investors?
-
Is the London Stock Exchange in peril?
More than 150 companies have left the London Stock Exchange or moved their primary listing since the start of 2024. What does it mean for investors and the economy?
-
UK stock market opening times
We reveal the UK stock market opening times, what are the extended trading hours and whether it’s open on bank holidays
-
What London’s new share listing rules mean for your money
Briefings UK regulators hope that weaker listing rules will attract more tech listings and rejuvenate a declining stockmarket. Perhaps they should pay more attention to other growth sectors.
-
LSE Group fights to stem the tide as share trading moves abroad
News Some of the City’s share-trading business has moved to the EU and the US. But all is not lost for the London Stock Exchange.