What Is the Amsterdam Stock Exchange (AEX) .AS? Overview & Insights

Founded in 1602, the Amsterdam Stock Exchange (AEX) stands as the world’s oldest functioning stock exchange, with roots tied to the inception of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Initially serving as a platform for financing global trade ventures, it evolved into a pivotal institution for investors seeking regulated markets.

Over centuries, the Amsterdam Stock Exchange underwent various ownership changes and structural transformations. Notably, in 1997, it merged with the European Options Exchange (EOE), leading to the renaming of its blue-chip index to AEX. Subsequently, in 2000, the exchange joined forces with the Brussels Stock Exchange and the Paris Stock Exchange to establish Euronext Amsterdam, now a key player in Europe’s equity markets.

Euronext Amsterdam features three primary equity indexes: the blue-chip AEX, mid-cap AMX, and small-cap AScX. Among these, the AEX holds prominence, comprising over 20 of the Netherlands’ most actively traded companies, including multinational giants like Unilever, ING Group, Philips, and Royal Dutch Shell.

The Amsterdam Stock Exchange holds historical significance as the world’s oldest functioning stock exchange, dating back to its founding in 1602 alongside the Dutch East India Company.

The AEX, as part of Euronext Amsterdam, plays a vital role in the European equity market, providing access to Dutch companies and facilitating cross-border investments within the region.

The AEX index comprises over 20 of the Netherlands’ most actively traded companies, including multinational corporations like Unilever, ING Group, Philips, and Royal Dutch Shell.