Investors goggle-eyed at Frankfurt exchange

The Frankfurt-based exchange is one of only two bourses in Europe to retain a physical trading floor, even though 97% of the deal volume on Germany's benchmark DAX Index goes through the electronic platform Xetra.

Apparently, the Bourse wants to spruce up its image for the benefit of the seven TV stations that regularly broadcast financial news from the floor. So, out go the 80s-themed wood-paneled walls and red plastic desks, to be replaced by trendy new fixtures and fittings, including telegenic neon lights and circular broker desks.

The facelift may do wonders for the Exchange’s image on the nation’s TV screens, but I suspect investors will be less-than-enamoured by this frivolous chase for ratings at a time of maximum seismic upheaval in the European trading landscape.