Investor uproar over Wise's decision to transfer stock exchange to New York
In a significant move, the financial technology company, Wise, has decided to shift its primary listing from the London Stock Exchange (LSE) to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The decision, which has been met with approval from more than 77% of Class A and over 81% of Class B shareholders at an extraordinary general meeting on July 28, 2025, marks a new chapter for the cross-border money transfer service.
The reasons behind this strategic move are manifold. Improved access to U.S. capital markets, which are larger and more liquid than the LSE, is one of the key drivers. Enhanced visibility and profile among global investors, especially in fintech-focused institutional segments, is another. Strategic positioning in a leading fintech hub, supporting Wise’s growth and mission, completes the picture.
Despite some initial reservations, the data shows strong shareholder support without a revolt. Notably, one of Wise's founders, Taavet Hinrikus, urged investors to vote against the move due to concerns about shareholder rights. However, the move is expected to become effective in the second quarter of 2026, positioning Wise to accelerate growth, enhance valuation prospects, and reinforce its competitive standing globally in fintech.
It is worth noting that Wise will maintain a secondary listing on the LSE, thereby retaining its ties to the UK market while prioritizing the U.S. market for capital and investor engagement. The move reflects a broader trend where prominent financial services and fintech firms shift primary listings to the U.S. to capitalize on deeper capital pools and investor demand.
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In conclusion, while some investors might have had reservations, the data shows strong shareholder support without a revolt. The main drivers are strategic capital market access and growth acceleration, with important implications for Wise’s market presence and investor relations worldwide.
[1] Wise Annual Report 2024 [2] Financial Times, "Wise to move primary listing to New York," 24 July 2025 [3] BBC News, "Wise shareholders back move to New York," 28 July 2025 [4] This is Money, "Best Investing Accounts," 29 July 2025 [5] Wise Press Release, "Wise Announces Plan to Move Primary Listing to New York," 23 July 2025
- The strategic move by Wise to list their primary shares on the New York Stock Exchange is driven by improved access to U.S. capital markets, enhanced visibility among global investors, and positioning themselves in a leading fintech hub, all of which are expected to accelerate growth and reinforce their competitive standing.
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