Dutch SME exchange NPEX secures backing from Paerel and Icecat

October 2, 2025

NPEX BV, the Dutch SME stock exchange platform that connects entrepreneurs and investors, has announced a major change in its ownership structure.

The platform enables small and medium-sized businesses to raise growth capital directly from investors, while also offering individuals and institutions opportunities to back promising enterprises.

The latest deal saw Paerel Investment and Icecat Capital acquire INKEF Capital’s 20% shareholding in the platform.

NPEX specialises in providing SMEs with access to capital markets through digital innovation. Its platform brings together businesses, professional and wealthy investors, and advisors, facilitating the placement and trading of securities in a simplified way.

The company’s new direction will focus on three pillars. These include NPEX Connect, which aims to further build a modern digital platform linking SMEs with investors and advisors; expanding services in securities administration to better manage existing holdings; and enhancing the process of direct listings, giving SMEs simpler access to exchange participation without overly complex issuance requirements.

NPEX director Mark van der Plas said, “The consolidated shareholder base reflects the confidence of Paerel Investment and Icecat Capital in our new course. It enables us to accelerate investments in digital solutions and the new NPEX infrastructure.”

He added, “With NPEX Connect, we make it easier for companies to raise funding from professional investors. It’s a gateway to a stock exchange listing. The requirements and criteria for placement with investors have been tightened, which has improved the quality of the offering.”