UK – Index provider FTSE is set to launch a global small-cap index series.

FTSE Group said in a news release that it is to create a new “Global Small Cap” index series that would complement its existing All-World large and mid cap indices.

“The new indices will be available and integrated with the FTSE All-World series from September 22 2003.”

The new series covers 49 countries. It includes more than 4,500 companies with a minimum size of 100 million dollars. “The series meets the design and methodology standards expected by market participants around the world, including transparency, liquidity, free float adjustment and low turnover costs,” FTSE says.

The index provider, a 50-50 joint venture between the London Stock Exchange and the Financial Times, is looking to grow. “We want to be number one,” says deputy chief executive Donald Keith.