
Boursa Kuwait Concludes Sponsorship of the CFA Institute Research Challenge, Promoting Financial Knowledge
Mr. Ankul Aggarwal – Partner and Head of Deal Advisory, KPMG
The competition showcased a high level of academic and analytical performance, with Kuwait University's team securing first place, while the American University of the Middle East (AUM) placed second. The winning team from Kuwait University comprised:Khalid Al-EisaHilal Al-MutairiAbdulwahab Al-JasmiShahad Al-FahadThe team was mentored by Dr. Abdullah Al-Awadhi, Assistant Professor of Finance and Financial Institutions at Kuwait University's College of Business Administration. As the faculty advisor, Dr. Al-Awadhi oversaw student selection, served as the main liaison with CFA Society Kuwait, reviewed research and presentations, and provided feedback without influencing students' decisions or changing written materials.In his remarks to the competition's graduates, Mr. Naser M. Al-Sanousi, Senior Director of Marketing & Corporate Communications at Boursa Kuwait, stated: 'Today, we celebrate months of dedication, research, and meticulous financial analysis. We honour the achievements of ambitious young minds whose contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of Kuwait's financial sector.'Al-Sanousi added: 'I extend my sincere appreciation to the CFA Society Kuwait and the CFA Institute for their continuous commitment to promoting financial literacy in the next generation of financial professionals. Boursa Kuwait values its partnership with the institute and society and remains committed to shaping the future of capital markets by equipping the community with financial knowledge, technical expertise, and the confidence needed to succeed in the financial sector.'Boursa Kuwait's strategic partnership with CFA Society Kuwait and the CFA Institute is a key component of its efforts to make a meaningful impact on the communities in which it operates. This aligns with the bourse corporate sustainability strategy, its commitment to initiatives that cultivate a knowledgeable, skilled, and future-ready generation, and its broader goal of enhancing financial awareness and expertise within Kuwaiti society. This initiative also supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).From her side, Ms. Aminah Abotalaf, President and Chair of Advocacy Committee of CFA Society Kuwait, commented: 'This competition is more than an academic challenge; it is a real-world experience that reflects the realities of the investment sector. The students' commitment to research and analysis demonstrates an impressive level of dedication and ambition, which we strive to instil through such initiatives. We extend our gratitude to Boursa Kuwait for its valuable partnership and unwavering support in nurturing young talent in the financial sector. We look forward to seeing these students achieve remarkable milestones in their careers.'Boursa Kuwait signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CFA Society Kuwait in October 2018, aimed at providing informative and educational content on investment fundamentals through Boursa Academy Online, a digital learning platform developed by Boursa Kuwait, to enhance financial knowledge among new and experienced investors.The agreement enables both organizations to leverage their expertise in financial services and offer accessible educational content to individuals seeking to expand their investment knowledge. This includes resources to help investors assess opportunities and make more informed financial decisions, such as a financial glossary, definitions of financial instruments, guidance on financial planning, an introduction to investment strategies and methods, and various educational materials.Mr. Ahmed F. Al-Falah, Managing Director – Investment Banking at Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz) and a member of the judging panel, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating: 'At Markaz, we are committed to participating in initiatives that encourage young talent, test their academic capabilities, and allow them to explore their potential as they embark on their careers in investment. It was inspiring to see some students we have previously supported at Markaz now presenting their insights with confidence and expertise.'Boursa Kuwait's corporate sustainability strategy is designed to ensure that all initiatives align with the company's corporate social responsibility governance framework, industry best practices, and investor expectations. The strategy also emphasizes the establishment of strong and sustainable partnerships that contribute to Boursa Kuwait's success, allowing the company to leverage the expertise and strengths of other organizations and institutions across various fields. Additionally, it seeks to integrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts into the company's culture, ensuring long-term sustainability and a lasting impact embedded within its daily operations.
As part of this strategy, Boursa Kuwait has launched multiple initiatives in collaboration with local and international organizations, with a particular focus on supporting NGOs and charitable programs, promoting financial literacy and capital market awareness, empowering women, and protecting the environment.
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Al Bawaba
29-06-2025
- Al Bawaba
From the trading hall to the pinnacle of digital innovation: Boursa Kuwait and Markaz empower Kuwaiti youth with UNICODE
Boursa Kuwait and the Kuwait Financial Centre 'Markaz' continued their strategic partnership with CODED Academy, sponsoring the fifth edition of the Academy's UNICODE Program, which targets over 300 university students and recent graduates across three cohorts from August to October program, hosted by Boursa Kuwait at its premises, aims to equip participants with essential coding and programming skills, thereby enhancing their readiness to compete in the rapidly evolving digital job market. It features specialized training tracks in cybersecurity as well as mobile application and web development, offering participants a wide range of potential career pathways. Since its inception in 2021, the program has benefited over 750 students from diverse academic UNICODE Program's fifth edition will commence on August 9 and is comprised of three intensive two-week training cohorts, culminating in a graduation ceremony to be held in November. Participants will undergo hands-on training in a range of essential technical skills, including website development using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, mobile application development using the Flutter platform as well as foundational cybersecurity and digital safety practices.'Boursa Kuwait firmly believes that investing in human capital is the cornerstone of any meaningful development and that Kuwaiti youth are the driving force behind a sustainable future,' said Mr. Naser Al-Sanousi, Boursa Kuwait's Senior Director of Marketing and Communication.'Our strategic partnership with CODED Academy, along with our sponsorship and hosting of the UNICODE Program, reflects this belief, reaffirming our commitment to initiatives that bridge the gap between academic knowledge and the evolving needs of the Kuwaiti labor market. These efforts are also an embodiment of Boursa Kuwait's strategic commitment to building a knowledge-based society capable of driving digital transformation and enhancing national competitiveness,' he Kuwait will host the program's workshops and interactive training sessions at its headquarters, which has been equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to offer students a stimulating learning environment that mirrors real-world professional settings and inspires them to explore promising career opportunities in the financial sector. 'Boursa Kuwait is proud to host UNICODE at its premises, reinforcing the connection between program participants and capital markets,' Al-Sanousi year's edition of the program introduces enhanced content through the integration of financial technology (FinTech) and artificial intelligence concepts across all training tracks, an approach that reflects Boursa Kuwait's strategic focus on innovation as a key driver of sustainable development. The program also aims to empower participants to devise practical solutions to the contemporary challenges of the financial sector, expanding their professional horizons and supporting their long-term career growth.'The fifth edition of this program serves as an effective bridge between academic aspirations and practical application in the workplace, representing a true launchpad for innovation. By supporting this initiative, we aim to help prepare a generation equipped with the skills and capabilities to drive Kuwait's economic growth and support its efforts for diversification. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to CODED Academy for its instrumental role in nurturing young talent and enhancing their skills, and I wish all participants continued success in their pursuit of excellence and innovation,' added strategic partnership between Boursa Kuwait and 'Markaz' with CODED Academy and sponsorship of its UniCODE program forms part of both companies' efforts to develop and educate Kuwaiti society and create a lasting meaningful impact on the communities where they operate. Part of their Corporate Sustainability (CS) strategies, the initiative is also in line with Goal 4 – Quality Education – and Goal 17 – Partnership for the Goals - of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Senior Vice President of Wealth Management and Business Development Ms. Maryam Al-Rifae also spoke about the partnership with CODED Academy, stating, 'Markaz takes great pride in being one of the earliest supporters of CODED Academy since its inception. This marks our fourth sponsorship of the academy's initiatives since 2019, a commitment that underscores our dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Kuwait. It also reflects our broader vision of empowering youth to pursue promising fields such as programming and coding, while reinforcing our belief in human capital development as a cornerstone of our corporate social responsibility strategy.'She added, 'Technology has become an essential part of everyday life, and we have a responsibility as institutions to nurture this shift by cultivating an environment conducive to the growth of start-ups and the development of competitive, homegrown tech solutions. A recent McKinsey report found that supporting educational tech initiatives like the UNICODE program can boost youth employment opportunities by up to 50%, which is a compelling validation of the program's impact and importance.''We are proud to collaborate with Boursa Kuwait on this initiative that reflects our shared commitment to empowering Kuwaiti youth, equipping them for digital transformation and helping them adapt to the fast-evolving demands of today's job market. At Markaz, we firmly believe that institutional partnerships are essential to driving inclusive development, led by a generation armed with knowledge, skills and a spirit of innovation," Al-Rifae Kuwait Financial Centre 'Markaz' was established in 1974 and is one of the first financial institutions in Kuwait to offer asset management and investment banking services in the Middle East and North Africa. Listed on Boursa Kuwait since 1997, it currently manages assets worth KD 1.44 billion (equivalent to USD 4.67 billion) as of March 31, Academy Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Mr. Hashim Behbehani expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Boursa Kuwait and the Kuwait Financial Centre 'Markaz' for their continued support of the Academy and generous sponsorship of the Unicode Program, emphasizing that this strategic collaboration reflects a shared commitment to empowering Kuwaiti youth and cultivating a new generation of highly skilled tech professionals.'We are proud to launch a new edition of the Unicode Program, purposefully designed to equip participants with the most in-demand technical skills in today's job market,' he said. 'This year's curriculum places a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on training in fintech and cybersecurity, offering an immersive learning experience aligned with the dynamic needs of the labor market.''Hosting the program at Boursa Kuwait provides participants with an immersive environment that elevates their learning journey and reinforces the program's growing reputation as a vital step in their career development. CODED Academy remains committed to offering practical, high-quality training that aligns with the aspirations and ambitions of today's students,' added in 2015, CODED Academy is the first coding academy in the Middle East, educating participants in software development, cybersecurity, data science and artificial intelligence, enabling the youth to navigate the evolving demands of a competitive job market and enter the workforce with confidence and Kuwait's Corporate Sustainability strategy stipulates ensuring initiatives apply and fall in line with the company's corporate social responsibility (CSR), industry best practice standards, and investor expectations, creating strong and sustainable partnerships that ultimately achieve success and allow Boursa Kuwait to leverage the capabilities and strengths of other companies or organizations that have experience in different fields, and integrating sustainability efforts with the company culture, to achieve longevity and ongoing impact that is carried on and instilled in the day-to-day operations of the stock exchange. As part of the strategy, Boursa Kuwait has launched many initiatives in partnership with local and international organizations, focusing on support for nongovernmental organizations and charity programs, financial literacy and capital market awareness, the empowerment of women, and environmental protection.


Al Bawaba
22-06-2025
- Al Bawaba
Boursa Kuwait champions solidarity on World Refugee Day
Reaffirming its commitment to social and humanitarian responsibility, Boursa Kuwait lit its building in blue in a symbolic gesture of solidarity with refugees worldwide on World Refugee Day, observed annually on June 20. Marking the occasion for the fifth consecutive year, the company continues to highlight humanitarian crises and advocate for the most vulnerable communities, underscoring its dedication to corporate social responsibility and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This year's World Refugee Day is held under the theme of 'Solidarity with Refugees,' serving as an open call to the international community, particularly the private sector, to show their support refugees through tangible initiatives that empower them to rebuild their lives amid growing global challenges from the rise in forced displacement to the decline in humanitarian funding. 'Boursa Kuwait's participation in World Refugee Day reflects its strong belief in the vital role of the private sector in driving positive, sustainable change. Through its strategic partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the company continues to support impactful initiatives and institutional partnerships that empower refugees to meet their basic needs—including cash assistance, education, and healthcare,' said Mr. Naser Al-Sanousi, Boursa Kuwait's Senior Director of Marketing and Communication. 'Boursa Kuwait remains committed to raising community awareness and fostering a culture of solidarity, social responsibility and meaningful giving that contributes to the development of more inclusive and equitable societies,' he added. To mark the occasion, Boursa Kuwait announced the continuation of its strategic partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), reaffirming its ongoing support for the agency's initiatives across the region. Since 2020, the bourse has helped deliver aid to more than 1,980 refugee families through various relief programs, including winter assistance, education and emergency response. In 2025, Boursa Kuwait supported UNHCR's cash assistance and protection program, empowering refugees and displaced persons to meet their essential living needs with dignity. This initiative reflects the bourse's ongoing commitment to adopting best-in-class practices in corporate sustainability, governance, environmental and social responsibility (ESG). 'On World Refugee Day, let us remember that solidarity with refugees is a humanitarian duty—an act of extending support to people who have been forced to flee their homes and countries due to circumstances beyond their control. By opening our doors and listening to their stories—stories that blend pain with hope—we affirm the importance of supporting initiatives that empower them and facilitate their integration into host communities,' said UNHCR Representative in Kuwait Ms. Nisreen Rubaian. 'I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Boursa Kuwait for its continued support of refugee families across the Middle East and North Africa, especially recognizing the bourse's backing of initiatives dedicated to unaccompanied children and its efforts to amplify the noble message and objectives of World Refugee Day. I urge everyone to unite in building a more welcoming world for refugees, one that offers dignity, hope and the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future,' added Rubaian. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization committed to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution. As the UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR leads international efforts to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and forcibly displaced communities around the world. The initiative forms part of Boursa Kuwait's efforts to create a lasting meaningful impact on the community as part of its Corporate Sustainability strategy, and is in line with Goal 1 – No Poverty, Goal 2 – Zero Hunger, Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, Goal 4 – Quality Education, Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation, Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities and Goal 17 – Partnership for the Goals - of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Boursa Kuwait's Corporate Sustainability strategy stipulates ensuring initiatives apply and fall in line with the company's corporate social responsibility (CSR), industry best practice standards and investor expectations, creating strong and sustainable partnerships that ultimately achieve success and allow Boursa Kuwait to leverage the capabilities and strengths of other companies or organizations that have experience in different fields, and integrating sustainability efforts with the company culture, in order to achieve longevity and an ongoing impact that is carried on and instilled in the day-to-day operations of the stock exchange. As part of the strategy, Boursa Kuwait has launched many initiatives in partnership with local and international organizations, focusing on support for nongovernmental organizations and charity programs, financial literacy and capital market awareness, the empowerment of women, and environmental protection.


Al Bawaba
22-06-2025
- Al Bawaba
KIB hosts a panel discussion titled ‘Financing and Mortgages: Opportunities and Challenges'
Kuwait International Bank (KIB), represented by its Real Estate Department, held a panel discussion titled 'Financing and Mortgages: Opportunities and Challenges' in collaboration with the Department of Finance and Financial Institutions at the College of Business Administration, Kuwait panel, held recently as part of the ongoing collaboration between KIB and the College of Business Administration at Kuwait University, was moderated by Dr. Saad Al-Nahedh, Assistant Professor of Finance at the College. It featured Engineer Fahad Al Saleh, Manager of the Real Estate Advisory Division and the Product Development and Support Division (PDSD) at KIB's Real Estate Department, and Mr. Ibrahim Adeeb Al-Awadi, Chairman of the Real Estate Union and CEO of Aayan Real Estate this regard, Al Saleh reaffirmed KIB's commitment to strengthening its collaboration with Kuwait University, driven by its belief in the importance of promoting knowledge and equipping students with practical experience. He emphasized that this reflects the Bank's dedication to social responsibility and its leading role in the banking sector. Al Saleh also noted that such collaboration bridges academic studies with real-world application and plays a key role in empowering and preparing young people to enter the job market with confidence and panel explored the key challenges facing real estate financing in Kuwait, with a focus on the differences between residential and commercial financing in terms of repayment periods and profit rates. It emphasized the need for innovative financing solutions that can ease the financial burden on citizens, particularly also discussed the potential role of the proposed mortgage law in regulating the market and enhancing access to private residential plots. In addition, they highlighted ongoing public and private sector efforts, most notably by the Public Authority for Housing Welfare, to develop housing cities comprising more than 170,000 residential units. The panel also addressed the importance of establishing a regulatory framework for mortgage financing and advancing real estate developer projects to help balance supply and demand in the housing market, ultimately aiming to address Kuwait's broader housing the vital role of real estate developers in revitalizing the market by offering integrated property solutions that meet citizens' needs, the panel also emphasized the importance of enhancing public-private partnerships to advance legislation and regulatory frameworks that support a sustainable financing panel saw strong engagement from students and faculty members, who enriched the discussion with thoughtful questions about the future of the real estate sector in light of ongoing economic developments. It is worth noting that this initiative reflects the shared commitment of KIB and Kuwait University to social responsibility by advancing education, promoting knowledge, and supporting government efforts to provide comprehensive housing solutions, contributing to sustainability and enhancing community well-being in Kuwait.