CEO Abdulla Salem Al Nuaimi Foresees Exceptional Developments For ADX In 2025

Abdulla Salem Al Nuaimi, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), anticipates 2025 to be remarkable in terms of listings, product launches, and technological advancements. Speaking at the Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) annual conference, he highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade technology platforms for innovative investor services.

Al Nuaimi noted that 2024 was outstanding, with 26 financial products listed, including six new companies and various bonds and sukuk. This diversity underscores the market's commitment to sustainability and attracting global investors, thereby expanding the market base and liquidity.

In early 2025, ADX plans a comprehensive overhaul of its trading systems. This initiative aims to align with their strategic vision by launching new financial products and enhancing customer experiences. "In the first half of next year, we will undertake a comprehensive modernisation of the trading systems," Al Nuaimi stated.

The CEO also mentioned that daily trading is split between individuals and institutions at 20% and 80%, respectively. He emphasised that foreign investors have significantly increased their participation over the past three years, now accounting for 40% of daily trades.

Al Nuaimi highlighted a consistent 7% growth in investor numbers, reflecting strong market confidence. The annual growth rate of trading volumes has reached 11% over three years. He expects this trend to continue into 2025 with plans for new listings across sectors like investment funds, derivatives, and equities.

The first quarter is typically quiet as companies finalise balance sheets; thus, initial listings are expected by late Q1 2025. "The first quarter of the year is usually relatively quiet as companies prepare their balance sheets," he explained.

Expanding Market Connectivity

The Tabadul Hub represents a significant advancement in linking financial markets. Currently hosting eight exchanges and serving 7.6 million investors with over 300 tradable products, it is set to expand further. "We expect more markets to join the platform in the future," Al Nuaimi said.

Plans are underway to add 11 more markets to Tabadul Hub, broadening opportunities for investors globally. This expansion aims to provide a wider horizon for investment activities through enhanced connectivity among financial markets.

The ADX remains focused on sustaining growth momentum while embracing technological innovations. With strategic plans in place for upcoming years, the exchange aims to maintain its position as a leading financial hub in the region.

With inputs from WAM