The World Federation of Exchanges published its 12th Annual Sustainability Survey, finding that transition finance has become the leading product development priority for exchanges, spanning equity as well as bonds. Based on responses from 58 exchange groups covering 2025 activity, the survey found that five exchanges have introduced transition designations and 20 plan to do so, while financial instruments supporting listed companies’ shift to a low carbon economy were the most common development priority. Investor demand remains a central driver, with 93% of respondents reporting demand for sustainability related products and 88% citing expanded opportunities as a motivation for sustainability initiatives. Green, sustainability and social bonds remain the most commonly offered products. Exchanges are also increasing their operational focus on transition: 20 have developed transition plans and another 22 intend to do so, while 86% publish sustainability reports and 89% have net zero targets. The main constraints are unreliable data, fragmented regulatory approaches and changing political priorities.
2026-09-16World Federation of Exchanges
World Federation of Exchanges survey finds transition finance is exchanges’ top product priority
The World Federation of Exchanges found that transition finance is now exchanges’ leading product development priority, with five respondents already offering transition designations and 20 planning to do so. Among 58 exchange groups surveyed, 93% reported investor demand for sustainability related products, while unreliable data and political and regulatory uncertainty remained the main challenges.