European exchange operator Euronext raised its offer for the Oslo stock exchange on Monday, besting an offer from US rival Nasdaq, but the Oslo Bors' management said it still preferred Nasdaq's bid. Euronext raised its offer to 158 kroner per share, beating an offer made by Nasdaq on January 30 of 152 kroner per share, as well as its original December bid of 145 kroner per share.

That brought the total of Euronext's bid to $783 million (691 million euros) compared to Nasdaq's $770 million. However the management of the Oslo stock exchange said it would continue to endorse Nasdaq's offer, which is has described as better for its capital market and companies.

"Our recommendation and that of the board of directors regarding the best strategic ownership remains unchanged," Bente Landsnes, the head of the Oslo Bors, told AFP.

Copyright Agence France-Presse, 2019