Summary of Nasdaq Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Nasdaq, Inc. (NasdaqGS:NDAQ) - **Date of Conference**: November 18, 2025 - **Participants**: Michael Cho (Equity Analyst, JPMorgan), Sarah Youngwood (CFO, Nasdaq) Key Points Industry and Market Dynamics - Nasdaq has observed a strong recovery in equity markets and listings following a shutdown, indicating a productive year in 2025 despite challenges [7][15] - The company has a robust pipeline for IPOs and capital raises, with a strong outlook for 2026 [12][7] - Nasdaq's capital access platforms have performed well, contributing positively to the overall business [8] Capital Markets and Listings - There is ongoing activity planned for the remainder of 2025, with a strong pipeline for 2026, although not all issuers are looking to list immediately [12] - The dual share class structure and E-ETFs are emerging trends, with Nasdaq well-positioned to benefit from potential approvals in the coming years [21][23] Data Business Performance - Nasdaq has increased its expectations for the full year due to strong performance in data and listings [30] - The company is leveraging its global franchise to attract investors interested in U.S. markets, which are viewed as the deepest and widest capital markets [30] - Nasdaq is recognized as a gold standard for data, benefiting from trends in retail trading and globalization [31] Private Markets and Strategic Divestments - Nasdaq has divested from Solovis due to a lack of synergies with its core investment business, focusing instead on areas with greater potential for innovation and shareholder value [43][44] - The company is expanding its private market data offerings, including partnerships to enhance its data ecosystem [52] Verafin and Fraud Detection - Verafin is experiencing growth driven by tier one and tier two clients, with a focus on integrating behavioral data from BioCatch to enhance fraud detection capabilities [60][81] - The partnership with BioCatch aims to combine transactional and behavioral data, providing significant value to clients [82] Financial Outlook and Capital Allocation - Nasdaq generates approximately $2 billion in cash flow annually, with a focus on organic growth and a balanced approach to capital allocation, including dividends and share repurchases [97][99] - The company aims to maintain a leverage ratio of around three times by the end of the year, indicating a strong financial position [99] Regulatory Environment - Nasdaq does not perceive significant regulatory threats in financial crime management, viewing regulatory developments as opportunities for growth [77][78] Conclusion - Nasdaq is well-positioned for future growth with a strong pipeline in listings, a robust data business, and strategic partnerships enhancing its offerings in fraud detection and private markets. The company maintains a balanced approach to capital allocation while focusing on organic growth opportunities.