As Europe continues to respond to geopolitical uncertainties and global market shifts, security and resilience has risen in Europe’s priorities. Strategic autonomy has evolved from a policy goal into a long term investment imperative. Financing aerospace and defence represents a critical step in Europe’s journey toward strategic sovereignty. Euronext is supporting this momentum with tailored capital markets solutions designed to strengthen financing pathways, enhance investor access and reinforce the role of European companies at the heart of this critical industry.
Advancing Europe’s strategic autonomy
In May 2025, Euronext announced the launch of a suite of initiatives focused on the 'new ESG', energy, security and geostrategy. This approach is made to reinforce Europe’s strategic autonomy by channelling capital towards companies and projects that strengthen Europe’s independence in the defence and aerospace sectors.
Central to these efforts is the introduction of a series of thematic indices, including the Euronext European Aerospace & Defence Index, designed to give institutional and retail investors targeted exposure to the innovators and leaders shaping Europe’s aerospace and defence industry. These indices complement Euronext’s established ESG frameworks, aligning with investors’ growing appetite for exposure to sectors critical to Europe’s resilience.
Tailored financing solutions for aerospace and defence
Recognising the urgent need for aerospace and defence companies to invest in innovation and capacity expansion, Euronext is deploying financing solutions to support their growth trajectories. The upcoming European Aerospace and Defence Growth Hub, powered by ELITE, will provide a dedicated platform to foster supplier development, facilitate access to capital and enhance managerial capabilities across Europe’s supply chain.
Additionally, the recently concluded European Funding Days, which took place from 7-8 July 2025, offered entrepreneurs and investors the opportunity to engage, share knowledge and explore diverse financing options spanning debt, equity, private and public capital.
Looking ahead, the IPOready Defence programme, launching later in 2025 and supported by the European Union and the European Investment Bank, will equip aerospace and defence companies with comprehensive guidance on preparing for public listings.
Supporting debt issuance through European defence bonds
Euronext also reinforces its leadership in bond listings with the establishment of a dedicated European Defence Bond Segment. This initiative streamlines the admission process and enhances transparency and liquidity for retail and institutional investors aiming to support Europe’s defence financing needs through debt instruments.
Fostering employee engagement in local military reserves
As part of its commitment to European sovereignty, Euronext is facilitating employee participation in national military reserves across the Group’s locations by ensuring salary continuation and social benefits during reservist training. This initiative underscores Euronext’s broader dedication to supporting Europe’s defence ecosystem not only financially but also through social responsibility.
A commitment to core ESG values alongside strategic autonomy
While the ‘new ESG’ initiatives highlight Euronext’s role in strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy, it is important to affirm that these efforts complement, not replace, our longstanding commitment to core ESG principles. Stéphane Boujnah, CEO and Chairman of the Managing Board of Euronext, emphasised: “It is clearly by strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy that we will enable European countries and companies to follow their ESG roadmaps in the long term.”
Euronext’s foundational sustainability strategy remains steadfast, driven by ambitious science-based climate targets, a growing portfolio of ESG products and active engagement with stakeholders to advance transparency and responsible investment. Our approach encompasses:
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Setting Net Zero targets ahead of 2027
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Embedding sustainability into all operations
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Expanding ESG product offerings including bonds, indices and advisory services
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Promoting diversity and inclusion as catalysts for growth
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Supporting communities through the Euronext Foundation’s initiatives on financial literacy, diversity and inclusion in finance and marine resources.
Together, these complementary paths ensure that Europe’s transition to a sustainable and resilient economy is supported by strong, innovative and autonomous strategic sectors. Learn more about how Euronext is shaping capital markets for future generations with our commitment to empowering sustainable growth.
Read on for more information on these initiatives and upcoming programmes.