Role of advisers on the Main Market

The UK capital markets regulatory framework means companies may need to work with different advisers, depending on their requirements.

• Main Market – Sponsor required on listing (including certain listing category transfers such as transfers from the transition segment to the ESCC category)
• Broker – the corporate broker acts at the main interface with the stock market, assessing market conditions, the demand for your company's shares and actively marketing them to investors
• Reporting accountant – reviews the company's financial records, which investors may use for business decisions
• Lawyer – there are two sets of lawyers involved in the flotation process: one to advise the company and one to advise the sponsor. Lawyers focus on verification of the prospectus
• Other advisers – you may consider appointing a financial public relations firm to assist in raising the company's profile and a registrar to manager your share register.

The adviser will provide initial guidance on whether it is the right time to bring your company to market. The adviser will then undertake a range of duties including;

•  Submitting the application to join the market
•  Advising on board structure
•  Advising on method of flotation
•  Coordinating a flotation timetable
•  Pricing strategy
•  Marketing strategy

• Yes, to make your listing a success, the company needs to persuade the investment community that its business is soundly managed. The advisers, especially the sponsor, play a key role in getting those messages across to the investment community.

• View the full list of FCA‑approved sponsors on the FCA-approved sponsors page.
• A natural starting point is to consult your existing advisers, usually accountants and solicitors. If they do not possess the experience to act for you, they could recommend appropriate advisers on the FCA's Sponsor list.