Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to tell City audiences that new rules easing the path for companies to list on London stock markets are breathing fresh life into the UK's financial hub.

Speaking at an event in the City of London on Monday, Reeves will highlight how the changes are countering pessimism that peaked two years ago, when some declared the Square Mile's best days over.

Key Reforms to Boost Listings

The Financial Conduct Authority's new regime includes:

• Exempting already-listed companies from lengthy prospectuses when issuing additional shares to raise funds, in most cases.
• Halving the time from initial documents to initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange.
• Introducing 'access bonds' allowing smaller-value issuances, broadening access for individual investors.

These measures aim to preserve high investor protections while making London more competitive globally. Reeves will emphasise that they back 'entrepreneurs, innovators and investors who drive our economy'.

FTSE 100 Milestone Fuels Optimism

The reforms coincide with buoyant market sentiment. The FTSE 100, tracking the UK's largest listed firms, hit a historic high above 10,000 earlier this month, following a 21.5% gain in 2025 its best since 2009.

This performance has prompted Reeves to pin hopes on drawing more Britons into investing. The government is pursuing reforms to foster a retail investment culture, addressing the UK's lag behind nations like the US.

Signs of Listing Rebound

The London Stock Exchange saw a late 2025 surge in activity, including flotations by Princes Group and Shawbrook Bank, reviving hopes after a drought and firms defecting to overseas markets.

A note on scheduling: Reeves withdrew from a separate LSE event to attend Prime Minister Starmer's press conference, but her City remarks underscore the government's commitment to financial sector growth.

Analysts view the package as a pragmatic step to reclaim London's edge in global capital markets, potentially heralding a 'new golden age' as Reeves envisions.