The European Securities and Markets Authority has authorised EuroCTP to operate as the Consolidated Tape Provider for shares and exchange-traded funds. This authorisation is a key step in the implementation of the consolidated tape framework, which aims to strengthen the transparency and efficiency of EU equity capital markets. The Consolidated Tape Provider will bring pre-trade and post-trade data from multiple contributors into a single stream, giving market participants a comprehensive view of trading activity. This will support better price discovery and facilitate more informed investment decisions for EU and international investors. The data will be available free of charge to retail investors, academics, civil society organisations, and regulators, while other users will have access to the data for a reasonable fee. ESMA has granted EuroCTP a transition period until 30 September 2026, to allow for the finalisation of operational and technical arrangements. After the transition period, EuroCTP will be responsible for operating the consolidated tape for a period of five years under ESMA's direct supervision. The five-year period will begin on the date EuroCTP starts its operations, and ESMA will ensure that EuroCTP complies with the MiFIR framework. ESMA encourages data contributors and other market participants to engage with EuroCTP to ensure a smooth and timely launch of the consolidated tape activities. The authorisation of EuroCTP as the Consolidated Tape Provider is an important development in the EU's efforts to improve the transparency and efficiency of its equity capital markets.