For the fifth consecutive year, the Athens Stock Exchange participated in the "Ring the Bell for Gender Equality" initiative of the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), in partnership with the UN Global Compact and Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE). This year's Closing Bell ceremony took place on March 8, 2023, in honor of women holding executive positions in ATHEX-listed companies.

The Athens Exchange Group organized the Closing Bell ceremony and a networking event to recognize outstanding women in top leadership roles within companies included in the FTSE/ATHEX Large Cap and Mid Cap Index.

The executives who had the honor of "ringing the bell" were:

• Mrs. Vasiliki Anagnostou, General Director of EPSILON NET (software development sector)

• Mrs. Anna Apostolidou, CEO of BRIQ PROPERTIES (real estate sector)

• Mrs. Marianna Stegou, Appointed Advisor of TECHNIKI OLYMPIAKI (construction sector)

• Mrs. Georgia Stefanakou, General Manager of Major Projects at EYDAP (water supply and sewerage sector)

• Mrs. Nelly Tzakou, Vice President of IDEAL HOLDINGS (IT services and consulting sector)

These executives highlighted the achievements and empowerment of women globally, emphasizing how diversity and inclusion strategies contribute to a better business culture and ecosystem. It was widely agreed that businesses must ensure the active participation of women in decision-making and broader societal roles, including employment, fair pay, education, and accessibility. The promotion of equality values strengthens key pillars of prosperity for all.

In his welcome speech, Mr. Yianos Kontopoulos, CEO of Athens Exchange Group, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that foster gender equality and encourage the equal participation of women in all professional fields. He stated: "This year, we chose to honor the women leading ATHEX-listed companies in the FTSE/ATHEX Large Cap and FTSE/ATHEX Mid Cap indices. These women serve as a powerful example for all of us, and their contributions and achievements in leadership positions underscore the significance of inclusion and equal participation in business."

For further information, please contact: events@athexgroup.gr