The Helsinki Stock Exchange, founded in 1912, began trading activities with the goal of providing a platform for the buying and selling of securities in Finland. The establishment of the exchange was driven by the growing need for a formal market to support the expansion of local businesses and to attract foreign investment. In its opening session, the exchange was characterized by a mix of excitement and apprehension among the traders, many of whom were eager to explore opportunities in a burgeoning market environment. The first transaction on the exchange set a precedent for future trading and indicated a step towards modernizing the Finnish economy, which was undergoing significant changes following its independence from Russia a few years earlier.

The significant development of the Helsinki Stock Exchange coincided with growing industrialization and urbanization in Finland. Investors from various sectors participated in the early trading sessions, reflecting the economic optimism of the time. The exchange introduced a range of financial instruments which catered to a diverse array of investors, enhancing the accessibility of the financial markets. Additionally, it played a crucial role in fostering a culture of investment in Finland, as more citizens began to recognize the value of participating in the capital markets.

As trading volume increased and the exchange grew in importance, it began attracting international attention, paving the way for foreign participation in Finnish securities. The Helsinki Stock Exchange not only served as a critical mechanism for financial intermediation but also contributed to the overall economic stability in Finland, supporting post-independence growth and development. It set the foundation for what would become a sophisticated financial sector, aiding Finland's integration into the wider global economy.