Walthamstow market started in 1885 and is now Europe’s longest outdoor street market, spanning a kilometre of the High Street. As well as stalls selling food, clothes and household goods, you’ll find cafes offering tasty treats from around the world.

The Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) is a European Union (EU) legislation that aims to harmonize the regulation of financial markets and protect investors. It was introduced in 2007 and revised in 2014 as MiFID II, which has broader scope and stricter requirements than its predecessor.

Under MiFID II, investment firms operating within the EU are subject to certain rules and regulations regarding the provision of investment services, trading activities, and market transparency. The directive covers various financial instruments, including equities, bonds, derivatives, and commodities.

When it comes to the longest market in the UK, it is important to note that MiFID does not directly define or measure the length of markets. Instead, it focuses on promoting fair and transparent trading conditions across different financial markets.

In the context of the UK, the London Stock Exchange (LSE) is one of the most prominent and longest-standing markets. Established in 1801, the LSE is one of the largest stock exchanges globally, with a diverse range of companies listed and traded on its platforms.

The LSE operates several markets, including the Main Market, AIM (Alternative Investment Market), and the International Order Book (IOB). These markets provide access to various types of securities for investors, such as shares, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and debt instruments.

Furthermore, the LSE is known for its strong regulatory framework and commitment to market integrity. It adheres to MiFID II’s principles by ensuring transparent price formation, efficient execution, and adequate investor protection.

While the LSE is often associated with being the primary market in the UK, it is worth mentioning that there are other trading venues, such as multilateral trading facilities (MTFs) and systematic internalizers (SIs), which also play a significant role in the country’s financial landscape.

Overall, while MiFID II has brought numerous changes to the regulation of financial markets in the UK and EU, it does not specifically outline or determine the length of markets. The London Stock Exchange remains one of the most well-known and enduring marketplaces in the UK, offering a wide range of investment opportunities for both domestic and international investors.