1. Home
2. Stock Trading For Beginners

Nasdaq Nordic & Baltics

Written By

Jemma Grist

Written By

Jemma Grist

Jemma is a writer, editor and fact-checker focused on retail trading and investing. Jemma brings a unique perspective to the forex, stock, and cryptocurrency markets and works across several investment websites as a researcher and broker analyst.

» Jemma Grist Profile Page

Edited By

James Barra

Edited By

James Barra

James is an investment writer with a background in financial services. He has worked as a management consultant, where he delivered large-scale operational transformational programmes at some of Europe's biggest banks. James authors, edits and fact-checks content for a series of investing websites.

» James Barra Profile Page

Fact Checked By

William Berg

Fact Checked By

William Berg

William contributes to several investment websites, leveraging his experience as a consultant for IPOs in the Nordic market and background providing localization for forex trading software. William has worked as a writer and fact-checker for a long row of financial publications.

» William Berg Profile Page

Updated

Jun 13, 2024

The OMX Nasdaq Nordic trading centre is the grouped name for the subsidiaries of Nasdaq Inc. that offer securities in the Nordic and Baltic regions. Following a rich history of mergers and acquisitions in the last two decades, OMX Nasdaq Nordic & Baltic offers Nasdaq Inc.’s leading exchange technologies for insights into more than 600 exchange segments.

This review delves into the best Nasdaq Nordic brokers, trading hours, history, indices and listing rules, before providing a guide to getting started with day trading on the Nasdaq Nordic exchange, complete with popular strategies and top tips. We have also listed the top brokers with access to Nasdaq Nordic & Baltic trading services in the table below.

How To Compare Nasdaq Nordic Brokers

Before you can start investing on the exchange, you will need to compare Nasdaq Nordic brokers. You can choose from many firms and the best Nasdaq Nordic brokers for you will come down to your personal preferences. We have listed some of the most important features below.

• Fees – Day traders make a high volume of trades every day. Therefore, fees and commissions can quickly add up and impact your P&L. You can compare Nasdaq Nordic brokers with low commissions and spreads by checking their published price lists and fee schedules. If this information is not readily available, it could be worth reaching out to the broker’s customer service team. Note, finding Nasdaq Nordic brokers with the cheapest fees may mean they are limited in terms of additional features. Determine whether the costs outweigh the level of service. Spending slightly more through commissions may provide you access to analysis tools and market data that could make you a more successful investor. Other fees to consider are minimum deposit requirements and default deposit and withdrawal fees.
• Trading platform – The investing platform is where you will spend most of your trading time. You should check that the broker’s platform has all the graphs, charts and technical analysis tools needed for the trades you wish to make. The platform you prefer will often come down to personal taste. Many investors prefer the reliability and stability of the MetaTrader terminals, though others may prefer a more modern and intuitive platform. The majority of top Nasdaq Nordic brokers will also offer mobile app compatibility for on-the-go trading, meaning you can pick up where you left off and trade wherever you are in the world.
• Demo account – You may want to trial the platform before committing to the broker. Nasdaq Nordic brokers with unlimited access to free demo accounts will rank highly. Admiral Markets offers a 3o-day demo profile with access to market data and real-time news. The paper profile can also be maintained if a live account is opened. Whether you are a beginner, or experienced investor, make sure to take advantage to practice strategies risk-free and get comfortable with the platform and tools before risking real money.
• Customer service – When your trades are on the line and you encounter an issue, you need to ensure that the broker’s customer service is quick and responsive. Choose Nasdaq Nordic brokers with multiple communication options and 24/7 support in the language you require. Live chat services are often the most responsive. Alternatively, look out for comprehensive FAQ sections, particularly those with step-by-step guides and integrated video content.

What Are The Nasdaq Nordic & Baltics?

The Nasdaq Nordic and Baltics exchange, otherwise known as Nasdaq OMX Nordic Exchanges, are part of the world’s largest exchange group: Nasdaq Inc. OMX Nordic is also one of the biggest exchanges in Europe, offering stocks sold by companies in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. It also provides financial services and operates marketplaces for securities in those countries.

Nasdaq Nordic brokers offer investment opportunities on listed companies such as Carlsberg, Nordic Waterproofing Holding, Nokia, Orsted, Ericsson and Volvo. Each country has a dedicated board of directors and a full members list along with their addresses can be found on their website.

Additionally, the Nordic Exchanges trade shares, indices, bonds, options, futures, ETF/ETP and funds. The Nasdaq OMX website also offers market news on relevant companies in the region, upcoming events, member lists and statistic reports. It includes full Nasdaq Nordic listings of small-cap, mid-cap and large-cap companies.

Additionally, the Nasdaq Nordic exchange provides yearly annual reports and surveillance reports on the Nordic markets. Surveillance’s annual reports contain statistical material on listings and enforcement matters. You can see reports like the OUCH Order entry as well as access a full data policy and a non-display policy.

Nasdaq OMX Nordic consists of the following exchanges:

• Copenhagen stock exchange
• Stockholm stock exchange
• Helsinki stock exchange
• Iceland stock exchange

Nasdaq Baltic consists of:

• Tallinn stock exchange
• Vilnius stock exchange
• Riga stock exchange

Brief History

The Nasdaq Nordic trading centre originated as a futures exchange founded by Olof Stenhammar in the 1980s in Sweden. It was originally named OM AB and offered standardized options contracts. Shortly after, in 1998, it acquired the Stockholm Stock Exchange. In 2003, OM merged with the Helsinki Stock Exchange and the name changed to OMX in 2004. Further acquisitions include the Copenhagen stock exchange in 2003 and the Iceland stock exchange in 2006, which brought the value of the company to SEK 250 million. Additionally, OMX took a 10% stake in the parent company of the Oslo Stock exchange. These acquisitions brought the implementation of a joint platform on all Nordic exchanges. Eventually, in 2007, OMX also acquired the Armenian Stock exchange.

From 2005, OMX began to expand its offerings after the acquisition of the Markets Technology division of Computershare, which made it one of the largest trading system technology providers. In the same year, they also created the Nasdaq Nordic Foundation which offers grants to support scientific research in Nordic financial markets. OMX created a pan-regional benchmark index known as the OMX Nordic 40, which is now the Nasdaq OMX Nordic 40 index.

In 2006, OMX Nordic introduced the common presentation of Nordic listed companies and listing rules. However, in 2007, Nasdaq bought the OMX company for USD 3.7 billion, which renamed it to the Nasdaq OMX group in 2008. In 2010, Nasdaq OMX launched the INET platform across the seven Nordic and Baltic equity markets. In 2019, the company launched the Nasdaq Nordic Fund market in Finland and Norway.

Nasdaq Nordic Indices

Nasdaq OMX 40 index

The Nasdaq OMX 40 index is a stock market index for the pan-regional Nasdaq Nordic exchanges. It is based on a capitalization-weighted system and was created in 2006. The index consists of 40 of the most traded stock classes of shares from the four stock markets in Copenhagen, Helsinki, Reykjavik and Stockholm.

Nasdaq OMX Baltic 10

The Nasdaq OMX Baltic index features 10 of the most actively traded stocks on the Nasdaq Baltic market. The small number and excellent liquidity of stocks make this index well-suited to derivative financial instruments. The stocks are weighted based on their free-float capitalization and are reviewed twice a year.

Nasdaq Nordic 120

The Nasdaq OMX Nordic 120 gross index comprises of the 120 largest and 150 most traded shares across NASDAQ OMX Copenhagen, NASDAQ OMX Helsinki, NASDAQ OMX Stockholm and Oslo Exchange. This is the most common index that you may come across through brokers that support trading on the Nasdaq Nordic exchange. It is a free-float market capitalization weighted index with stocks capped according to UCITS IV. The Nasdaq OMX Nordic 120 gross index is reviewed on a semi-annual basis.

Nasdaq Nordic Listing Rules & Requirements

The Nasdaq Nordic exchange is governed by the issuer rules, the member rules and the warrant rulebook. However, Nasdaq Nordic investment rules were replaced in February 2021 by a harmonized Nordic Main Market Rulebook and Nasdaq’s surveillance periodical reports. In this way, it upholds confidence by creating a level of transparency around the Nasdaq Nordic listing rules and requirements. Users can also access a market model document, which provides clarity for investing members and information on fixed-income markets.

Admission

New listings on Nasdaq Nordic exchanges occur regularly, but what goes into choosing which companies you can trade through Nasdaq Nordic brokers? The admission protocols abide by the Nordic Main Market and SPAC rulebooks. There are a few requirements companies need to meet and continue to abide by on an ongoing basis. These specifications include:

• Publishing annual reports for at least 3 years
• Demonstrate documented earnings capacity on a business group level
• Adhere to corporate governance codes according to the ESG Reporting Guide
• Shares have a material connection with a set of assets traded on a regulated market
• The expected aggregate market value of shares must be at least EUR 1 million, which are evaluated based on the offering price in the IPO

Changes

When it comes to the delisting of a share from the Nasdaq Nordic exchange, there are a few rules that come into play. If the share no longer fulfills the requirements mentioned in the rulebook or contradicts legislation or regulations on the operation of the exchange, its market status is reconsidered. However, the listing cannot be terminated if it would result in great harm to investors trading via Nasdaq Nordic brokers or impact the proper function of financial markets.

The process of delisting a company includes a hearing, in which the issuer is handed notices and has the opportunity to be heard before the decision is made. Furthermore, an appeal process is also available for the issuer to re-examine their market status.

Biggest Players

The Nasdaq Nordic offers a list of large-cap companies. Below are some examples of current dominants, with their market capitalizations and tickers shown.

1. Nokia Oyj (NOKIA): EUR 29.55 billion
2. Ericsson A (ERIC A): EUR 32.8 billion
3. Zealand Pharma (ZEAL): EUR 1.09 billion
4. AstraZeneca (AZN): SEK 1,515.46 billion
5. Danske Bank (DANSKE): DKK 95.03 billion

Nasdaq Nordic and Baltics has a total of 220 large-cap listed companies, which are firms with a share value of over EUR 1 billion. Many Nasdaq Nordic brokers will offer key financial metrics of these large-cap companies so you can monitor and trade within your portfolio.

Nasdaq OMX Nordic Trading Hours

Nasdaq Nordic market opening hours differ across all markets and countries. This will be reflected in your broker’s trading calendar. Below are the opening times for Copenhagen, Stockholm and Helsinki:

Copenhagen Opening Hours

• Equities: 09:00 – 17:00 CET
• Derivities: 09:00 – 16:55 CET
• ETFs: 09:00 – 16:55 CET

Stockholm Opening Hours

• Equities: 09:00 – 17:30 CET
• Derivatives: 09:00 – 17:25 CET
• ETFs: 09:00 – 17:25 CET

Helsinki Trading Hours

• Equities: 10:00 – 18:30 CET
• Derivatives: 10:00 – 18:25 CET
• ETFs: 10:00 – 18:25 CET

Why Trade The Nasdaq Nordic & Baltics?

There are many reasons to explore brokers that offer access to the Nasdaq Nordic exchange. The exchanges provide a comprehensive, efficient and secure marketplace that is regulated to top standards where investors can transact and settle financial products seamlessly between all countries. On top of that, the single marketplace operates with “one shared global technology, one market model, joint membership, common information distribution”, according to Nasdaq. This makes trading in Nordic and Baltic regions accessible for both local and international investors. Other reasons include:

• Liquidity: Stocks on the Nasdaq Nordics & Baltic Exchange are highly liquid, which means reduced slippage and risks during trading. Nasdaq Nordic has an integrated smart order routing for the best bid and offer shares.
• Transparency: The Nasdaq Nordics exchange employ strict regulations and rules over the companies listed on the website and during trading. You can be sure that you are securely investing on the exchange.
• Volatility: The Nasdaq Nordics & Baltic indices feature some of the largest companies in the region. Therefore, traders can benefit from the price fluctuations and growth of stocks. Additionally, several Nasdaq Nordic brokers offer a volatility index.
• Diverse products: Investors can get involved by investing on six product types, which provide the opportunity for a diverse portfolio. These include shares, indexes, bonds, options & futures, ETF/ETP and funds.
• Technology: Nasdaq Inc. is known for its powerful technology and INET platform. Therefore, you can benefit from several high-quality tools. The INET platform includes related technical information, such as connectivity, GCF, protocol specifications, frontend applications and more. Users can also access INET Test NTF with time schedules published on IT notices. INET enables auctions on demand. Additionally, the Nasdaq Nordic Trading Workstation software allows for trade management with a cheap fee schedule. A Nasdaq Nordic Technical Services Pricelist can be found on their website.

Nasdaq Nordics & Baltics Day Trading Tips

Strategy

Whether you’re looking for Nasdaq Nordic trading with options, futures, Bitcoin or stocks, having an effective strategy is paramount for a successful investing career. Today, traders have access to myriad charts, historical data, dividend history, graphs and market data to perform technical analysis. You can also access the Nasdaq TotalView-ITCH specification for full order book depth and equity levels 1 and 2.

Using different charts will allow you to see trends from historical price data or patterns that can help you make better predictions. Technical analysis can be difficult to master, but practice and experience are important for refining your craft. Many Nasdaq Nordic brokers will offer access to a demo profile meaning you can learn how to review data and technical analysis to apply to a live trading environment.

See our strategies page for more information.

Timing

You can trade stocks via brokers with access to the Nasdaq Nordic exchange at any time during the market opening hours but that doesn’t mean it will be effective. You likely want to trade when the market has high liquidity and volatility, which is when it is at its busiest. Additionally, preparation during pre-market hours is crucial for success in the main session. This allows you to conduct any research and read up on company news, press releases or the latest market updates.

News

A key factor in the influence of price movements is news announcements. As a day trader, you need to be able to react accordingly to gain an edge or exit the market before it is too late. Additionally, you may want to refer to your brokers’ economic calendar as key releases can have a significant impact on stocks.

Nasdaq lets you download a dedicated API to access relevant data on demand. Their Nordic Equity Last Sale (NLS) provides real-time, intra-day, on-exchange trade data. There are many news sources you can follow when it comes to investing on the Nasdaq Nordic exchange, including Bloomberg, Reuters, Yahoo Finance, CNBC, Economist and FT.

Ensuring you stay abreast of the real-time news can make all the difference to successful Nasdaq Nordics & Baltic trading.

Educational Resources

Whether you’re a new trader or a seasoned expert on stock trading, it is always important to brush up on your knowledge and skills. Nowadays, there are so many ways to keep learning, including:

• Forums & Chat Rooms: Learning from other experienced traders by getting any strategy tips or ideas can be done in a forum or chat room. This is the ideal space to brainstorm with like-minded Nasdaq Nordic members, or share derivatives market data.
• Social Media: You can also follow experts on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram who can provide useful information and ideas.
• Online Courses & Video Tutorials: There are several online courses based on the Nasdaq Nordic exchange that users can make use of. Furthermore, Youtube is a great resource for traders to learn from or even to get a glimpse into other people’s strategies. The best Nasdaq Nordic brokers will provide integrated educational resources within their platform interface, meaning you can refer to guidance throughout your investment journey.
• Charts: You can access several charts that show historical price data or market data for 1 day, 1 month or even 10 years via your brokers’ platform. Note, some sources may apply market data fees for full access.
• PDFs: These can guide you through setting up your own Nasdaq Nordic investment charts/graphs.

Automation

Once you’ve perfected your Nasdaq Nordic investment strategy, you can explore options for automated trading. Day trading requires a high volume of trades throughout the day and a significant level of concentration and labor. Thus, algorithms and robots can make setting up trades more efficient. By following pre-determined criteria, it can help save you time and potentially increase profits while you focus on other matters at hand.

Final Word On Nasdaq Nordic Brokers

Investing on the Nasdaq Nordics & Baltic exchange continues to be a powerful outlet for stock speculation. Its long-held reputation makes it no surprise that day traders choose to invest their time in this exchange. However, to stay competitive and continue to trade successfully, it is important to have an effective strategy and continue learning.

If you want to get started with Nasdaq Nordic investing, thoroughly compare Nasdaq Nordic brokers, and check out our list of the best brokers for Nasdaq Nordics & Baltic Exchange trading.

FAQs

What Products Do Nasdaq Nordics & Baltics Offer?

You can trade shares, indices, bonds, options & futures, ETF/ETP and funds on the Nasdaq Nordic website. On Nasdaq Baltic, you can only trade shares, bonds, funds and indices. Nasdaq Nordic trading centre even offers green bonds under the sustainable bond and debt markets. Sustainable markets can be found on the Nasdaq ESG data portal. The best Nasdaq Nordic brokers will provide opportunities across all asset classes.

What Are Nasdaq Nordic Power Products?

The Nordic power market features one of the most liquid power derivative markets in the world. This has been developed over the past 20 years to reduce risks, increase transparency and protect investors. Power products include commodities like European power, Natural Gas, Freight & Fuel Oil, Renewables, Steel, Carbon, Electricity Futures and Seafood. They also offer baseload futures on Nasdaq Commodities.

Why Are Nasdaq Nordic Brokers Trading Calendars Useful?

Traders can access past and upcoming Nasdaq OMX Nordic & Baltics trading calendars from 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and beyond. These include Nasdaq OMX Nordic exchange holidays and opening days for markets like equity and derivatives. Nasdaq Nordic also offers a power calendar with power holidays. Look our these reflected on your Nasdaq Nordic brokers’ website.

What Is Nasdaq Nordic First North?

The Nasdaq Nordic First North is the Nordic alternative growth market. Users can access Nordic reference data files for reference data information on First North, such as Nordic Fixed Income or Derivatives Rules. The file format is also based on the Nasdaq Nordic genium INET market model.

How Do I Start Nasdaq Nordic Trading Via Online Brokers?

You will need to compare Nasdaq Nordic brokers and select one that suits your investment needs and goals. After this, you will need an effective strategy. Make sure to conduct research before choosing an asset to day trade and take into account the market’s working hours.