Interview to Antonio Fernández Hernando, President of ARMANEXT
What does "entrepreneurship" mean to you?
Entrepreneurship embodies the extraordinary spirit of individuals who take their future into their own hands by starting and growing businesses. These visionaries shoulder the responsibility for their company's success and their employees' well-being while risking their personal resources. At ARMANEXT, we serve entrepreneurs who aspire to expand their companies and seek tools for growth, both through financing and strengthening internal governance. As an entrepreneur myself, I often remind our clients that the stock market is a natural destination for founders or owners looking to realize their growth plans without compromising their vision or control.
How is ARMANEXT Listing Sponsor acting as a game-changer in the SME landscape?
ARMANEXT plays a pivotal role at a critical juncture in successful SMEs' life cycles. When management must decide between growing on their own terms or relinquishing control to obtain outside capital, we step in to advise on the best path forward. While selling to a venture capital firm may be suitable for those looking to exit, the stock market offers a unique opportunity for business owners who wish to grow on their own terms and realize their vision. The listing process helps firms define their financial and market position, enhance their reputation among stakeholders, and solidify internal governance. Ultimately, the market is the true game-changer, with ARMANEXT serving as the essential conduit.
What are the key moments when companies gain the most from your support and expertise?
ARMANEXT provides crucial support at three critical stages of a company's growth:
a) Pre-listing considerations: When owners decide to pursue sustainable growth, our team conducts an objective evaluation of the business opportunity, financial situation, and internal governance processes, providing a realistic assessment of the company's current position.
b) Listing process: We guide firms through a rigorous "training program" that stress-tests every aspect of their business practices, helping them improve and prepare for market scrutiny. This process ensures companies emerge stronger, leaner, and more agile.
c) Post-listing compliance: ARMANEXT ensures ongoing fulfillment of market obligations, helping companies maintain a clear view of their business status and financial situation through independent reports to the exchanges where they list
Why do you think ELITE is a good network to be part of?
Joining ELITE's network of over 90 partners and numerous innovative companies across various sectors demonstrates ARMANEXT's commitment to supporting and growing European SMEs through capital markets. At a time when European SMEs are a key engine of growth and prosperity for the continent, we believe networks like ELITE are crucial for maintaining the sector's global competitiveness. ELITE's pan-European reach and focus on connecting companies with capital, skills, and networks align perfectly with ARMANEXT's mission to empower SMEs and drive sustainable growth.