Equiniti Powers Landmark First Auction on LSE Private Securities Market
23 February 2026

Quick Summary
Equiniti is powering the first-ever auction on the London Stock Exchange’s Private Securities Market (PSM). This milestone, under the PISCES framework, allows private companies to access regulated liquidity events, enabling shareholders and employees to trade shares using established public market infrastructure while remaining private.
How Does the Private Securities Market Solve the Liquidity Trap?
The Private Securities Market (PSM) addresses the growing trend of companies remaining private for longer periods. By utilizing the PISCES framework, Equiniti provides a regulated "highway" for intermittent liquidity auctions. This allows founders and employees to unlock share value without the immediate need for a full public listing.
- Regulated environment: Operates under the London Stock Exchange's disclosure portal.
- Institutional-grade trust: Leverages Equiniti's legacy in financial infrastructure.
- Scalable models: Supports repeatable liquidity events for high-growth companies.
What Role Does TPEIC Play in This New Ecosystem?
The Tradable Private Equity Investment Company (TPEIC) acts as a specialized vehicle to facilitate trading. In this inaugural event, TPEIC holds shares in Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE), with liquidity managed at the TPEIC level. This innovative structure ensures that private firms can benefit from market execution without the complexities of a direct listing.
- Single-asset focus: TPEIC holds shares in Oxford Science Enterprises.
- Operational precision: Equiniti manages the registry mechanics and settlement.
- Market readiness: Transitioning from regulatory design to live market operation.
How is Equiniti Supporting Operational Readiness?
Equiniti provides the technical foundation and procedural expertise required for these complex auctions. By navigating settlement mechanics and registry requirements, Equiniti ensures that the Private Securities Market functions with the same scale and precision as traditional public markets. This partnership with the LSE and TPEIC marks a landmark moment for UK capital markets.
FF NEWS TAKE:
The launch of the Private Securities Market via the PISCES framework is a genuine needle-mover for the UK fintech ecosystem. By bridging the gap between private flexibility and public liquidity, Equiniti is helping London remain competitive against US markets. This regulated liquidity model provides a vital exit valve for late-stage venture capital and employee equity, potentially revitalizing the UK's appeal for high-growth tech firms.
Companies in this story: Equiniti, Tradable Private Equity Investment Company, TPE, Oxford Science Enterprises, London Stock Exchange
People in this story: Jo Palmer, Fred Bouverat