KEY POINTS:
The Government is taking action to see what could be done to stem the flow of companies from the stock exchange.
Economic Development Minister Trevor Mallard said his ministry has been working with a number of market participants to see how it could be strengthened.
Mr Mallard said he is organising a policy workshop and hoped to have some firm ideas to present to ministers in the New Year.
The reason behind the workshop was concern about the steady departure of significant companies from the stock market.
"The Government recognises the importance of capital markets," Mr Mallard said.
There have been concerns that the flow of companies from the NZX could threaten its viability.
Sky City, the country's fifth-biggest listed company, is up for sale and could easily be taken over and delisted and overseas interests are bidding for Auckland International Airport.
Fletcher Building has said it is considering a shift to Australia and there have been rumours about the future of a number of the other large companies in the NZX as foreign private capital seeks investment.
- NZPA