Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
1. Brief background on Boursa Kuwait
Boursa Kuwait was established in April 2014 by Resolution No. 37/2013 of the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) Commissioners’ Council, dated November 20, 2013. On April 25, 2016, the company was officially entrusted with operating Kuwait’s stock exchange and was granted a license to undertake the functions of a securities exchange by the CMA on October 5, 2016, paving the way for its privatization.
Since its inception, Boursa Kuwait has played a transformative role in developing Kuwait’s capital market. Through key reforms and strategic collaboration with the CMA and Kuwait Clearing Company (KCC), the exchange has adopted international best practices, introduced innovative investment products, and enhanced infrastructure to improve market efficiency and transparency. These efforts have helped increase liquidity, boost investor confidence, and attract both local and international investments.
Boursa Kuwait became one of the first stock exchanges in the Middle East to list its own shares for trading, a significant achievement that underscores its commitment to transparency, governance, and operational excellence. The listing reinforced Kuwait’s role as a regional financial hub and marked a strategic milestone in the exchange's development, setting a model for self-regulation and strengthening investor confidence in the market as an independent, forward-thinking and focused institution. For more information about Boursa Kuwait’s history, click here.
2. Who regulates Boursa Kuwait?
Boursa Kuwait is regulated by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), Kuwait’s primary financial regulatory body overseeing securities activities. The CMA ensures that Boursa Kuwait operates with transparency, efficiency, and investor protection, in alignment with global standards. This regulatory framework has helped position Boursa Kuwait as a trusted and well-governed exchange, fostering confidence among both local and international investors.
3. What is the fiscal year of Boursa Kuwait and its subsidiaries?
Boursa Kuwait and its subsidiaries’ fiscal year runs from January 1 to December 31.
4. When did Boursa Kuwait consolidate the Kuwait Clearing Company (KCC) as its subsidiary?
Boursa Kuwait consolidated KCC as its subsidiary in the third quarter of 2020, following the acquisition of an additional 33.375 million shares on July 15, 2020, for approximately KD 15 million. This brought Boursa Kuwait's total ownership to 50%, making it KCC’s largest shareholder.
This strategic step aligns with the exchange’s efforts to develop Kuwait’s capital market, enhance operational efficiency, and simplify processes and procedures, thereby improving the quality of operations and meeting the requirements of its various stakeholders.
5. Where can I direct questions not covered in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)?
For additional information, you can visit Boursa Kuwait’s Investor Relations webpage or email your inquiries to info@boursakuwait.com.kw.
6. Who is Boursa Kuwait’s external auditor?
Boursa Kuwait’s current external auditor is Messrs. Ernst & Young, Al Aiban, Al Osaimi & Partners.
7. Does Boursa Kuwait issue an Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Reporting Guide for listed companies?
Boursa Kuwait has developed an ESG Reporting Guide to help listed companies disclose their sustainability practices in line with Capital Markets Authority (CMA) Resolution No. 136/2022. The guide provides a clear framework for ESG reporting, enhancing transparency, and supporting compliance with regulatory requirements while addressing the growing expectations of investors and stakeholders. For more information, visit Boursa Kuwait’s Sustainability webpage.
8. Does Boursa Kuwait publish Sustainability Reports?
Boursa Kuwait publishes a comprehensive annual Sustainability Report, highlighting its key initiatives and achievements in the areas of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Through this report, the company assesses the impact of its efforts across these pillars. As a “Premier” Market-listed company, Boursa Kuwait demonstrates its strong adherence to the highest standards of transparency and corporate responsibility. This report serves as one of the fundamental pillars that reflect the company's approach to sustainable development.
You can access all editions of this report through the Sustainability webpage on Boursa Kuwait’s website.
9. Does Boursa Kuwait issue an Investor Relations (IR) guide for listed companies?
As part of its ongoing dedication to promoting knowledge sharing, reinforcing transparency, and implementing best practices within Kuwait’s capital market and the region, Boursa Kuwait has issued an IR Best Practices Guide as a resource for all market participants, providing essential knowledge and tools to navigate the function of investor relations effectively.
Created in partnership with the Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA), the guide covers key topics such as IR planning approaches, investor targeting techniques, disclosure and communications tools, as well as highlighting the pivotal role of IR in supporting executive decision-making and ensuring regulatory compliance.
The guide is available on the Investor Relations webpage on Boursa Kuwait’s website.
Trading and Investment
10. On which market are Boursa Kuwait’s shares currently traded?
Boursa Kuwait’s shares are traded on the “Premier” Market, the highest tier within the exchange’s market segmentation. The “Premier” Market is reserved for companies that meet stringent listing criteria, including robust liquidity, and high corporate governance standards. Being listed in the “Premier” Market reflects institutional excellence and high investment readiness.
11. What does it mean to be listed on the “Premier” Market?
Being listed on the “Premier” Market reflects Boursa Kuwait’s strong market position, commitment to transparency, and alignment with international best practices. This segment also attracts significant investor interest, both locally and globally, due to its focus on well-established and high-performing companies.
12. What is the ticker symbol for Boursa Kuwait’s shares?
The ticker symbol for Boursa Kuwait’s shares is “BOURSA”, with the Security Code 827. This ticker facilitates seamless identification and tracking for investors.
As a publicly traded company, Boursa Kuwait is committed to transparency, accessibility, and leadership in the regional financial landscape.
13. Can non-Kuwaitis own and trade Boursa Kuwait’s shares?
Yes, non-Kuwaitis can own and trade Boursa Kuwait’s shares. This reflects the company’s inclusive approach to attracting a diverse investor base and fostering a globally competitive financial market.
14. What is the difference between the Over-the-Counter (OTC) Market and the “Premier” and “Main” markets?
The OTC Market facilitates the trading of unlisted securities, offering flexibility for companies that do not meet the listing requirements of the “Premier” or “Main” Markets. It supports private transactions and caters to investors seeking opportunities in less-regulated environments.
In contrast, the “Premier” and “Main” Markets are more structured and regulated, offering securities with higher transparency, strict governance, and robust disclosure requirements.
15. What is the BK Main 50 Index?
The BK Main 50 Index tracks the 50 most liquid companies listed on Boursa Kuwait's “Main” Market. Introduced in February 2020, this index aims to enhance market segmentation and highlight investment opportunities beyond the “Premier” Market. It also addresses tradability challenges in the “Main” Market by focusing on liquidity, fostering greater confidence, and participation among both local and international investors.
For more detailed information, please visit the Boursa Kuwait “Main” Market 50 Index webpage.
16. How can I open a trading account?
To open a trading account, please visit Kuwait Clearing Company’s Trading Forms webpage and follow the steps outlined there.
Market Data and Information
17. How can I get real-time data?
Real-time data can be accessed through Boursa Kuwait’s Data Services webpage, which offers comprehensive and up-to-date information on market activity, helping investors make informed decisions and ensuring timely access to critical trading insights.
