AstraZeneca Plans NYSE Direct Listing While Retaining London Headquarters

AstraZeneca has announced plans to directly list its ordinary shares on the New York Stock Exchange, replacing its current American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) on Nasdaq, while retaining its primary listing and headquarters in the UK. This move aims to harmonize its share listing structure across London, Stockholm, and New York, broadening its global investor base and providing greater access to capital. Despite speculation about a potential withdrawal from the London Stock Exchange, AstraZeneca confirmed it will maintain its FTSE 100 status and UK tax residency. The decision coincides with the company's increased focus on the US market, including a $50 billion investment over five years to expand manufacturing and R&D operations across several states. This strategic shift also aims to mitigate the impact of President Donald Trump's trade tariffs. The company recently paused a £200 million investment in its Cambridge research facility, adding to scrutiny over its UK commitments amid ongoing pricing disputes with the UK government.