Women shaping capital markets

For the past five years, UK public markets have been undergoing a period of significant transformation. During this period, government, industry and the regulatory community have worked together tirelessly on a package of landmark reforms to revitalise our public markets.

On Thursday 29 January 2026, UK Finance was proud to co-sponsor a landmark gathering of more than 50 influential women, including women from within UK Finance’s membership and associate membership, who have been integral to this process.

Masterminded by Stacey Parsons of RetailBook, and brought to life by UK Finance, RetailBook, London Stock Exchange Group Issuer Services and MUFG Pension & Market Services, the event celebrated the role played by talented women in shaping – and continuing to shape – the future of our public markets.

Hosted on the iconic rooftop terrace of the London Stock Exchange, the event brought together women from the wholesale and retail banking and retail investment communities, trade associations, the UK’s financial services advisory community including law and accountancy firms, media, market infrastructure operators, Government officials, representatives from the regulatory community and beyond.

I was proud to be part of the team driving forward the event, and to participate in it, along with Yvonne Deane Harte, our Director of Secondary Markets and Post Trade.

Together, the group explored how we can unlock the power of UK public markets to drive growth in the UK economy and support UK companies and individuals, thereby enabling jobs and economic prosperity across the UK.

Women from across the financial services sector also spoke about the power of collaboration across the different parts of the market and the importance of frank, honest conversations to drive meaningful change.

As a co-host of the event, I was struck by the positive energy and goodwill in the room. It was truly heartening to hear the support expressed, despite our roles in different parts of the financial services community. For true change in our markets, we need to work together – wholesale and retail, government and regulators and industry to unlock the full power of our markets.

As we carry this momentum forward, we look forward to continuing the conversation with all those committed to unlocking the full potential of our markets. As Stacey has commented, we are all very much looking forward to the next one!

Here are a few comments to whet your appetite for what comes next:

“The event was a standout and I came away with new perspectives from the many conversations we had, and a renewed sense of optimism and energy about the future of the capital markets in the UK and what I can contribute to ensure their continued success.” Vanessa Blackmore, Partner, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP

“It was a terrific evening. Nicely done in terms of the structure and timings for the event. Most valuable was the opportunity to listen and chat to other professionals in the capital markets system. Hearing the insights of others was a good reminder that the wholesale market does not work in isolation and is part of a broader ecosystem.“ Investment Banking professional

“It was inspiring to be in a room with so many impactful women. Bringing us together, sharing information, celebrating each other and creating connections is valuable on both a personal and professional level.” Alexandria Carr, Head of Financial Services Regulation, Société Générale

UK Finance covers a broad range of policy areas. We recently hosted our inaugural Women in Economic Crime networking event which included a panel of senior female leaders offering advice and insight to women working across financial crime, fraud and sanctions. If you're interested in this, or any of our events, please get in touch with your usual UK Finance contact or visit our events pages.

Area of expertise:

Capital markets & wholesale UK Finance