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Unlike in previous editions, where the Star of the Year was a separate category, this year, the Star of 2025 will be awarded to the best overall entry selected from the applications submitted to the four categories: Rising Star, International Star, Star of Innovation, and Star of Sustainability.  

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Rising Star

The Rising Star is a newly listed company that stands out as an exceptional performer in the sub-group of SMEs with a market capitalisation of up to €200 million. A Rising Star should be an emerging business that has further growth potential and can provide evidence of good governance. Since going public, its share price should have risen to a respectable premium amount.

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International Star

The International Star will boast impressive results in terms of international sales, profit and market share growth. All nominated companies competing in this category have likely expanded their presence in either existing or new markets and made great achievements in the international scene. The International Star Award will go to a well-managed company that demonstrates a sound strategy for taking advantage of opportunities outside its own country.

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Star of Innovation

The Star of Innovation places innovation at the centre of its strategy for business development. Nominees may be introducing innovative technology to the market or using innovative techniques in their day-to-day operations. The winner will be well-managed and successful in its sector. The jury will pay particular attention to the future potential offered by the winner's innovation.

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Sustainable Star

The Sustainable Star places corporate citizenship and good governance at the core of its strategy and operations. Nominees may actively integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors- such as climate impact, labour conditions, employee wellbeing, and ethical governance- into their company policies, practices, and reporting. The winner will demonstrate a strong and ongoing commitment to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. The jury will pay particular attention to the development of ESG- focused solutions and/or the issuance of sustainable financial instruments.


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Special Mention

The Special Mention category recognises outstanding contributions that have made a significant impact on small and mid-cap issuers accessing capital markets.

Eligibility is broad and may recognise:

Nominations for this category can be submitted by a wide range of stakeholders, including exchanges, companies, policy makers and others in the financial service ecosystem. Intermediaries, such as SME Listing Partners or Advisers who support companies on their capital markets journey, are also encouraged to submit nominations.