NEW YORK - Yesterday, LinkedIn Corporation, the world's largest professional network with more than 100 million members worldwide, opened for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “LNKD” after its initial public offering in which it raised $352.8 million in gross proceeds. LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner, joined by members of the company’s management team, celebrated the company’s first day of trading on the NYSE by ringing The Opening Bell.

“LinkedIn is an excellent platform for connecting individuals professionally and fostering new business relationships across the globe,” said Duncan Niederauer, CEO, NYSE Euronext. “We are thrilled to welcome LinkedIn to our growing community of technology-based listed companies, and we look forward to a successful, lasting partnership with the company and its shareholders.”

“Becoming a publicly traded company on the NYSE is another significant step toward LinkedIn’s goal of connecting the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful,” said Jeff Weiner, LinkedIn CEO.

NYSE Euronext markets list 603 technology, media and telecom (TMT) companies with a total combined market capitalization of $4.268 trillion (as of April 30, 2011). Several recent notable TMT listings include: Sequans Communications (SQNS), Demand Media (DMD); NeoPhotonics (NPTN); IMAX (IMAX); Youku.com Inc. (YOKU); MagnaChip Semiconductor (MX) and Qihoo 360 Technology (QIHU), with several more soon to list including SuccessFactors (SFSF), Freescale Semiconductor (FSL), Pandora (P), 3D Systems Corporation (DDD) and Active Network (ACTV).

As of April 30, 2011, NYSE Euronext leads the U.S. market for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) and new listings both in total capital raised as well as number of transactions for 2011, with $18.52 billion in IPO proceeds raised on the New York Stock Exchange through a total of 33 IPOS (including funds).

CEO News Note: The share price on the initial day of trading closed at $94.25 after reaching as high as $122.70, valuing the company at $9 billion. The stock was initially offered at $45/share after originally being planned to be offered at between $32 and $35. Many were surprised at the closing price and resulting market capitalization for the social media network.