AFCM Annual Conference 2024 Kicks Off -2-

Abdulaziz Nasser Al Emadi, the newly appointed President of the Arab Federation of Capital Markets (AFCM) and Acting CEO of Qatar Stock Exchange, delivered a keynote address during the inauguration of the AFCM Annual Conference in Doha. In his address, Al Emadi expressed his gratitude to the Arab delegations in attendance. He underscored the significance of this year's conference, emphasizing its focus on addressing the opportunities and challenges confronting Arab capital markets. He highlighted the pivotal role of collaboration in fostering a conducive environment for investment and integration within the Arab financial landscape. Al Emadi reaffirmed Qatar Stock Exchange's commitment to working closely with AFCM members to advance the Union's objectives, aligning with the collective aspirations of its constituents. He emphasized the pivotal role of exchanges in elevating the capabilities of Arab capital markets, pledging concerted efforts towards their development and growth. AFCM Secretary-General Rami E l Dokany confirmed that the market values of Arab stock exchanges increased by 12.2 percent during the year 2023 to record $4.6 trillion, while liquidity decreased by 13.2 percent compared to the year 2022 to record $663 billion, whereas the number of transactions increased by 15.2 percent to record 129 million. As for listings, the region witnessed 49 new listings, with the Saudi Tadawul leading the listings with 35, followed by the Abu Dhabi Securities Market with 6. He pointed out that the conference will witness the signing of the Net Zero Pledge, as four Arab stock exchanges will sign it for the first time outside of the regular climate conferences, bringing the number of global stock exchanges signing this pledge to 15 global stock exchanges. The conference agenda comprises nine dialogue sessions over two days, focusing on critical topics relevant to the securities industry and the role of financial markets in its enhancement. These include digital transformations, sustainability of regional economie s, shortening settlement periods, investor relations, Islamic finance, international sustainability standards, digital assets, and the integration of precious metals in investment portfolios. On the sidelines of the conference, two agreements have been signed between the AFCM and both the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the African Securities Exchanges Association. Source: Qatar News Agency