“The success of AIA and a series of other privatizations and sales reflect the confidence of investors in the Greek economy”
The Athens Stock Exchange welcomed today the management and executives of the Athens International Airport, on the occasion of the listing of the company’s shares in the Main Market.
THE CEO of the Athens Stock Exchange Group, Mr. G. Kontopoulos pointed out that AIA’s entry into the stock market is of pivotal importance not only for the company itself and the A.A. and the Greek economy, but it is also a signal for Greece’s investment dynamics. It added that it was the biggest issue in 18 years, increasing the stock market capitalization by 2.5 billion euros.
Mr. Ioannis Paraschis, its CEO AIA announced the opening of today’s Stock Exchange meeting, stressing that AIA’s entry into the Athens Stock Exchange is a milestone in its journey since 1996, which started from scratch with the partnership of the Public and Private Sectors. He added that AIA will provide high quality services, creating value for its shareholders and the Greek economy in general.
THE Minister of National Economy and Finance Mr. K. Hatzidakis characterized the entrance of AIA to A.A. as a great success, both for the company itself, but also for the Athens Stock Exchange and as a historic moment for the course of the country.
He emphasized that the public will collect 785 million eurospointing out that the success of AIA and a series of other privatizations and sales (Ethniki, Eurobank, Alpha Bank, ELPE, Attiki Odos, etc.) reflect the confidence of investors in the Greek economy.
He added that the government believes in a free economy that attracts investment that leads to growth, bringing benefits to all and especially the weaker citizens.
He also referred to the government’s measures for stock market support with the reduction of the tax on stock market transactions and the capital accumulation tax, while leaving open the possibility of taking further measures to support the capital market.
THE Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Mr. Christos Staikouras stated that the Greek economy has turned the page and is becoming more outward-looking, relying on investments. The amount of offers and the price reflect the development course of AIA, its strategic importance for Greece and the strengthening of the position of our country.
THE president of TAIPED, Mr. D. Politis pointed out the high value that exists in AIA, stressing that the great success of the public offering is due to the quality of the company and the worthy management.
OR chairman of the Capital Market Committee V. Lazarakoupointed out that the introduction of the AIA upgrades the Greek capital market, and will be a start for entry into the A.E. and other companies of similar size.
Finally, it should be noted that the recent IPO attracted offers that exceeded 8 billion euros, exceeding the requested amount by 12 times. The proceeds of the public offering amounted to 784.7 million euros.
