The number of companies listed on the Borsa Italiana's mid-cap segment, Star, is to rise by 21% this week as part of a drive to increase liquidity in the smaller Italian stocks.

Borsa Italiana is keen to attract investors, particularly outside Italy, who have yet to pay much attention to the new segment. Six companies will move onto the Star segment, taking the number of firms listed to 34 and the MIB Star index to support the segment will be established by the exchange.