PSX Marks World Investor Week 2024 with Gong Ceremony

The event, themed ‘Ring the Bell for Financial

Literacy,’ is scheduled from October 7 to 13 to

promote financial literacy & investor education

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), in collaboration with the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) and the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), kicked off World Investor Week (WIW) 2024 with a gong ceremony at the PSX Trading Hall. The event, themed ‘Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy,’ is scheduled from October 7 to 13, 2024. This marks the fourth consecutive year that PSX is hosting the WIW to promote financial literacy and investor education.

Key participants at the ceremony included representatives from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), self-regulatory organizations (SROs), securities brokers, asset management companies, and the Pakistan Stock Brokers Association (PSBA). PSX Chairperson Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, Acting CEO Mr. Nadeem Naqvi, and PSX board members were among the hosts.

Promoting Financial Literacy

The gong was struck by Chief Guest Mr. Akif Saeed, Chairman SECP, alongside PSX Chairperson Dr. Shamshad Akhtar and other senior PSX executives. The ceremony marked the official launch of WIW, aiming to enhance financial literacy and raise awareness about investor protection. Throughout the week, activities will focus on financial inclusion, encouraging more individuals to understand and participate in the capital markets.

Mr. Akif Saeed praised PSX’s commitment to spreading financial awareness. “As Pakistan’s financial landscape evolves, it is crucial to equip investors with the knowledge to make informed decisions,” he said. He also highlighted the growing potential of the country’s youth population, with 67% under the age of 30, as a significant opportunity for the capital market to attract new investors.

Technological Advancements in Capital Markets

Acting CEO Mr. Nadeem Naqvi spoke about PSX’s technological progress, particularly with the introduction of the ‘Sahulat Account,’ which allows investors to open an online trading account within minutes. He emphasized the convenience of stock market investments but also advised individual investors to assess risks carefully and invest only a small portion of their savings in the market.

Continuous Efforts to Promote Financial Education

PSX Chairperson Dr. Shamshad Akhtar emphasized the importance of financial literacy for both the public and investors. “PSX consistently organizes sessions, workshops, and webinars to raise awareness about saving, investing, and understanding the stock market,” she noted. Over 15,000 individuals, including students and corporate employees, were educated in the last fiscal year through PSX’s financial literacy initiatives.

The week-long activities of World Investor Week 2024 will aim to further empower investors and foster confidence in the financial markets, supporting Pakistan’s broader economic growth.