Boursa Kuwait convened an event titled “Kuwait Capital Market Outlook: Market Developments and Investor Perspectives” on June 23, 2026, focusing on advancing investor relations practices, enhancing transparency, and supporting the development of the Kuwaiti capital market. The gathering brought together representatives from the exchange, economic research sector, and investor relations professionals from listed companies. The event was organized in partnership with the Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) and its Kuwait Chapter.

Opening remarks were delivered by Fahad Abdulmohsen Al-Besher, Investor Relations Director at Boursa Kuwait, and Mohammad Abdal, Head of the MEIRA Kuwait Chapter and Chief Corporate Affairs and Communications Officer at Zain Group. The discussions underscored the growing importance of investor relations amid ongoing regional geopolitical uncertainties, which have affected investor sentiment and economic activity. Participants emphasized the necessity for listed companies to maintain clear communication channels and timely disclosures to uphold market confidence.

Al-Besher highlighted the strategic collaboration between Boursa Kuwait and MEIRA as a reflection of their shared commitment to strengthening investor relations foundations. He noted that transparent corporate communication and effective investor engagement have become essential for building market confidence, reinforcing corporate credibility, and supporting sustainable capital formation. Boursa Kuwait continues to encourage listed companies to adopt international best practices to bolster Kuwait’s reputation as a reliable investment destination.

Senior Director of Product Development and Data Services, Ahmad Mohammad Al-Jasem, detailed progress made through the Market Development Program, which includes structural reforms aimed at increasing the operational environment’s resilience and trading stability. Key upgrades such as the launch of the Central Counterparty system (CCP), activation of cash settlements via the Central Bank of Kuwait’s KASSIP system, elevation of brokerage firms to Qualified Broker status, and enhanced closing auction mechanisms have improved clearing and settlement efficiency while mitigating operational risks. These improvements have fostered greater confidence among regulators and investors alike.

Expanding the range of investment products was also highlighted, including the introduction of fixed-income instruments like bonds and sukuk, along with exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These additions provide investors with broader options to hedge risks in volatile periods. Al-Jasem noted that these developments lay the groundwork for future initiatives such as the new trading system and the introduction of financial derivatives, intended to deepen the market and enhance transparency and global competitiveness.

The event featured a fireside chat moderated by Eman Alawadhi, Group Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations at KIPCO, with National Bank of Kuwait Chief Economist Daniel Kaye providing analysis on the current economic landscape. Kaye examined the direct and indirect effects of geopolitical challenges on energy markets, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, banking liquidity, credit growth, and implications for Kuwait’s sovereign credit rating and financial sector resilience.

Participants reached a consensus that clear and consistent disclosure has evolved beyond regulatory obligation into a strategic tool that enables companies to demonstrate operational and financial strength. Kaye emphasized Kuwait’s robust fiscal position and government spending as a buffer supporting the non-oil sector’s resilience. He also stressed that sustaining growth momentum depends on maintaining reforms, development projects, stable trade flows, and sound financial conditions. Investor relations professionals were noted as crucial in providing transparent communication on financing priorities and long-term strategies, which helps preserve corporate credibility and investor confidence.

The event forms part of Boursa Kuwait’s broader corporate sustainability strategy and reflects its enduring partnership with MEIRA and its Kuwait Chapter. This collaboration aims to cultivate a stronger governance culture, enhance transparency, and align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals focused on quality education and partnerships. Mohammad Abdal remarked on the increasing demands placed on companies to improve disclosure quality and communication consistency amid shifting regional dynamics.

Longstanding joint initiatives between Boursa Kuwait and MEIRA, including the Investor Relations Best Practices Guide, provide practical tools for listed companies to manage communications effectively through stable and volatile market conditions. These efforts complement ongoing structural reforms designed to strengthen the capital market, contribute to Kuwait’s investment attractiveness, and support sustainable economic growth.

As part of its corporate responsibility, Boursa Kuwait also prioritizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) best practices, financial literacy, and initiatives that generate positive social and environmental impact, aiming to create long-term value for stakeholders and support national prosperity.