Iraqi Securities Commission achieves qualitative milestones in developing the financial market under the patronage of the government of Prime Minister Mr. Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani

His Excellency Mr. Faisal Al-Haimus, Chairman of Iraqi Securities Commission, stated that the Commission has achieved a qualitative leap and tangible accomplishments in Iraq Stock Exchange during the years 2024–2025. These achievements come within the framework of the guidance and ongoing support from the Government of the Prime Minister, Mr. Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani, reflecting the government's firm commitment to stimulating the investment environment and strengthening the foundations of financial stability in the country.

His Excellency explained that these accomplishments, which span legislative, technical, and regulatory axes, aim to develop the financial market infrastructure, enhance transparency, and protect investors' rights, in alignment with international standards.

Below are the most prominent milestones achieved:

First: On the Legislative and Regulatory Level:

Approval and completion of the Securities Law draft, which received Cabinet approval and is now before Parliament for the second reading.

Ratification of internal regulations for the Iraq Stock Exchange, its organizational structure, and the Iraqi Depository Center’s internal system.

Activation of new regulatory frameworks, including margin trading, licensing of brokerage firms, and swapping listed shares with newly listed ones.

Organizing the re-issuance of shares of listed companies after general assemblies at fair indicative prices.

Activation of the Unified Verification System, aimed at enhancing operational accuracy and efficiency.

Second: On Infrastructure and Technical Development:

Digital transformation and enhanced transparency through updated trading mechanisms, in cooperation with specialized firms.

Supervision of the HOT/DR Backup (Emergency Storage) project, which is in its final preparation stages, ensuring the continuity of market operations.

Development of electronic disclosure systems, renewal of the Xstream trading system license to enable real-time disclosure of companies’ financial status and interest rates directly on the trading platform.

Establishment and full operation of the electronic archiving system and its stations.

Launch of the electronic inquiry station on the Commission’s website to serve the public and investors.

Third: On Trading Mechanism Development and Service Diversification:

Launch of a new trading platform allowing minor shareholders of companies that haven't disclosed their financial data to trade.

Launch of an Over-The-Counter (OTC) platform for non-listed stocks, with 19 companies listed so far.

Launch of a new price index (ISX15) — the first in the market to rely on free float market capitalization to determine company weightings.

Introduction of electronic trading platforms via smart devices, in partnership with brokerage firms, to facilitate market access.

Fourth: On International Cooperation and Capacity Building:

Signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange under the patronage of the Prime Minister, to strengthen ties between the two countries' capital markets and create joint investment and trade opportunities.

Signing an MoU with the Egyptian Financial Regulatory Authority to exchange expertise and information and enhance transparency and efficiency according to best practices.

An agreement with the UK Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) to develop the performance of professionals working in the sector.

An agreement with Egypt’s ESG company to develop infrastructure and promote online trading.

In conclusion, the Chairman affirmed that these accomplishments form a key pillar of a comprehensive strategy aimed at making Iraq Stock Exchange a vital contributor to the national economy and an attractive destination for both local and foreign investments.

Media Office

August 20, 2025