Latest news with #NationalBankofKuwait
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Investment opportunities the core of Boursa Kuwait's participation in HSBC's fourth GCC Exchanges Conference in London
London – As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance its international presence and showcase the compelling investment opportunities within the Kuwaiti capital market, Boursa Kuwait concluded its participation in the fourth GCC Exchanges Conference, organized by multinational British investment bank HSBC, held in London from 16–17 June 2025 and coinciding with the bourse's 15th Corporate Day. The Corporate Day saw the participation of eight companies listed on the 'Premier' Market, including Boursa Kuwait, Kuwait Finance House, National Bank of Kuwait, Mobile Telecommunications Company (Zain), Warba Bank, Burgan Bank, Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Real Estate Company, and attracted a strong turnout from representatives of world-renowned investment institutions, including investment banks, asset management firms, sovereign wealth funds and international pension funds. Over 100 meetings were held throughout the Corporate Day, offering institutional investors in-depth insights into the financial performance, strategic plans and operational outlooks of the participating Kuwaiti companies. 'Boursa Kuwait's participation in international investment conferences, corporate days, and roadshows underscores its pivotal role in positioning the Kuwaiti capital market as a compelling destination on the global investment landscape. These platforms are instrumental in showcasing the market's competitive strengths and reinforcing its reputation as a transparent, efficient, and regionally significant financial hub. They also provide valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, share expertise, and adopt global best practices—bolstering investor confidence and advancing our vision of a sustainable market that aligns with evolving global economic trends,' said Boursa Kuwait's Head of Markets, Noura Al-Abdulkareem. Boursa Kuwait presented a comprehensive overview to institutional shareholders and potential investors, highlighting its key financial results for the first quarter, operational performance through May and key takeaways from its latest sustainability report. The company also outlined its announced plans, including the upcoming launch of the Central Counterparty (CCP) system, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and a dedicated fixed-income trading platform that includes bonds and sukuk. Commenting on the company's meetings with prospective investors and shareholders, Boursa Kuwait's Chief Financial Officer Mr. Naim Azad Din said, 'Boursa Kuwait's consistent efforts to enhance transparency and maintain direct and meaningful engagement with prospective shareholders and investors are aligned with the highest international standards adopted by leading exchanges across the globe. We are committed to presenting our financial and operational performance with clarity and accuracy while providing effective channels for dialogue that allow shareholders and investment institutions to stay informed on the latest developments and plans of Boursa Kuwait and the broader Kuwaiti capital market.' 'Key initiatives such as the launch of the Central Counterparty (CCP) system and the fixed-income trading platform reflect the capital market apparatus's commitment to broadening the range of financial products and improving investor experience—ultimately strengthening shareholder confidence, supporting the market's sustainable growth and maintaining its regional and international competitiveness,' he added. The GCC Exchanges Conference is taking place in London for the fourth consecutive year, bringing together representatives from all seven Gulf Cooperation Council stock exchanges. As one of the region's most prominent and influential financial forums, the conference provides a unique opportunity to deepen engagement with international investors and serves as a strategic platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing. Head of Wholesale Banking for HSBC Kuwait, Mr. Ahmed AlMurad, welcomed Boursa Kuwait's participation in the conference, saying: "Boursa Kuwait plays a pivotal role in developing Kuwait's capital market, driving economic diversification in line with the country's ambitious vision for economic transformation. As the largest international bank in the country with a longstanding history, HSBC is proud of the strong working relationship with Boursa Kuwait and will continue its role in connecting global investors with the investment opportunities in the country." Boursa Kuwait and HSBC share a longstanding partnership, having collaborated on numerous Corporate Days and Roadshows across major global financial centers as part of a broader strategy to attract foreign capital and institutional investors to the Kuwaiti capital market. Boursa Kuwait has been a key driver in the development of the Kuwaiti capital market and the diversification of the national economy, in line with the goals of the 'New Kuwait' vision. Since its inception, the company has worked diligently to create a thriving capital market that attracts local and foreign investors through a broad spectrum of new products and services, infrastructure upgrades, and market reform initiatives, as part of its multi-phase market development (MD) plans. Boursa Kuwait was fully privatized in 2019, the first government entity in the country to successfully undergo the process, bringing about greater levels of efficiency. It has also been self-listed since September 2020 and has made great strides in sustaining its operations and business continuity in the face of uncertainties and challenges. The company has rolled out numerous market reforms and new initiatives as part of its comprehensive multi-phase market development (MD) plans and showcases some of the standout listed companies and the investment opportunities that reside in the Kuwaiti capital market through its series of Roadshows and Corporate Days, putting these companies in touch with some of the world's leading investment firms and financial institutions and highlighting their financial health and business strategies and outlooks, to help investors gain an in-depth understanding of the benefits and opportunities of investing in Kuwaiti companies. Editor's Notes: Brief Overview of Boursa Kuwait: The establishment of Boursa Kuwait in 2014 marked the first step in the privatization project of the Kuwait Stock Exchange, which was founded in 1977 as the first exchange in the Gulf Cooperation Council region and was reorganized in 1983 as an independent financial institution. The transitional phase began in 2016, with Boursa Kuwait officially assuming the responsibilities and operations of the Kuwait Stock Exchange, replacing it with an official license in the same year after the successful completion of the transitional phase. This ensured that Boursa Kuwait developed the infrastructure and operated according to best practices and international standards. It commenced the creation of an advanced, reliable trading platform built on efficiency, credibility, and transparency to serve all asset classes with a focus on the interests of traders and the national economy. Boursa Kuwait has undertaken various market reforms as part of its comprehensive plans to enhance it in several stages. It succeeded in introducing innovative investment tools, enhancing transparency, and restructuring the market to increase its liquidity and competitiveness, based on its mission-focused strategy, which emphasizes developing the market to meet international standards. The company's developmental and improvement efforts have also contributed to the reclassification of the Kuwait market as an «emerging market» among key global index providers, enhancing Kuwait's position as a leading regional financial center. In a pioneering step in Kuwait's privatization field, the privatization of Boursa Kuwait was successful, conducted in two stages. The first stage was in February 2019 when a consortium of Kuwaiti investment companies and a global exchange operator won the privatization bid, acquiring a 44% stake in the company. In December 2019, the privatization process was completed through the public offering of a 50% stake owned by the Capital Markets Authority to Kuwaiti citizens, with the offering oversubscribed by more than 850%. Boursa Kuwait is listed on the «Premier Market» under the name «Boursa». For further information, please contact: Ahmad Rashed Alowaish PR and Media Manager - Boursa Kuwait Direct: +965 2299-2282 Mobile: +965 5056-0090 Email: aalowaish@
Al Bawaba
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Investment opportunities at the core of Boursa Kuwait's participation in HSBC's fourth GCC Exchanges Conference in London
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance its international presence and showcase the compelling investment opportunities within the Kuwaiti capital market, Boursa Kuwait concluded its participation in the fourth GCC Exchanges Conference, organized by multinational British investment bank HSBC, held in London from 16–17 June 2025 and coinciding with the bourse's 15th Corporate Corporate Day saw the participation of eight companies listed on the 'Premier' Market, including Boursa Kuwait, Kuwait Finance House, National Bank of Kuwait, Mobile Telecommunications Company (Zain), Warba Bank, Burgan Bank, Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Real Estate Company, and attracted a strong turnout from representatives of world-renowned investment institutions, including investment banks, asset management firms, sovereign wealth funds and international pension funds. Over 100 meetings were held throughout the Corporate Day, offering institutional investors in-depth insights into the financial performance, strategic plans and operational outlooks of the participating Kuwaiti companies.'Boursa Kuwait's participation in international investment conferences, corporate days, and roadshows underscores its pivotal role in positioning the Kuwaiti capital market as a compelling destination on the global investment landscape. These platforms are instrumental in showcasing the market's competitive strengths and reinforcing its reputation as a transparent, efficient, and regionally significant financial hub. They also provide valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, share expertise, and adopt global best practices—bolstering investor confidence and advancing our vision of a sustainable market that aligns with evolving global economic trends,' said Boursa Kuwait's Head of Markets, Noura Kuwait presented a comprehensive overview to institutional shareholders and potential investors, highlighting its key financial results for the first quarter, operational performance through May and key takeaways from its latest sustainability report. The company also outlined its announced plans, including the upcoming launch of the Central Counterparty (CCP) system, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and a dedicated fixed-income trading platform that includes bonds and on the company's meetings with prospective investors and shareholders, Boursa Kuwait's Chief Financial Officer Mr. Naim Azad Din said, 'Boursa Kuwait's consistent efforts to enhance transparency and maintain direct and meaningful engagement with prospective shareholders and investors are aligned with the highest international standards adopted by leading exchanges across the globe. We are committed to presenting our financial and operational performance with clarity and accuracy while providing effective channels for dialogue that allow shareholders and investment institutions to stay informed on the latest developments and plans of Boursa Kuwait and the broader Kuwaiti capital market.''Key initiatives such as the launch of the Central Counterparty (CCP) system and the fixed-income trading platform reflect the capital market apparatus's commitment to broadening the range of financial products and improving investor experience—ultimately strengthening shareholder confidence, supporting the market's sustainable growth and maintaining its regional and international competitiveness,' he GCC Exchanges Conference is taking place in London for the fourth consecutive year, bringing together representatives from all seven Gulf Cooperation Council stock exchanges. As one of the region's most prominent and influential financial forums, the conference provides a unique opportunity to deepen engagement with international investors and serves as a strategic platform for collaboration and knowledge of Wholesale Banking for HSBC Kuwait, Mr. Ahmed AlMurad, welcomed Boursa Kuwait's participation in the conference, saying: "Boursa Kuwait plays a pivotal role in developing Kuwait's capital market, driving economic diversification in line with the country's ambitious vision for economic transformation. As the largest international bank in the country with a longstanding history, HSBC is proud of the strong working relationship with Boursa Kuwait and will continue its role in connecting global investors with the investment opportunities in the country."Boursa Kuwait and HSBC share a longstanding partnership, having collaborated on numerous Corporate Days and Roadshows across major global financial centers as part of a broader strategy to attract foreign capital and institutional investors to the Kuwaiti capital Kuwait has been a key driver in the development of the Kuwaiti capital market and the diversification of the national economy, in line with the goals of the 'New Kuwait' vision. Since its inception, the company has worked diligently to create a thriving capital market that attracts local and foreign investors through a broad spectrum of new products and services, infrastructure upgrades, and market reform initiatives, as part of its multi-phase market development (MD) Kuwait was fully privatized in 2019, the first government entity in the country to successfully undergo the process, bringing about greater levels of efficiency. It has also been self-listed since September 2020 and has made great strides in sustaining its operations and business continuity in the face of uncertainties and challenges. The company has rolled out numerous market reforms and new initiatives as part of its comprehensive multi-phase market development (MD) plans and showcases some of the standout listed companies and the investment opportunities that reside in the Kuwaiti capital market through its series of Roadshows and Corporate Days, putting these companies in touch with some of the world's leading investment firms and financial institutions and highlighting their financial health and business strategies and outlooks, to help investors gain an in-depth understanding of the benefits and opportunities of investing in Kuwaiti companies.
Kuwait Times
6 days ago
- Health
- Kuwait Times
NBK organizes blood donation campaign for its employees
KUWAIT: In line with World Blood Donor Day and as part of its social responsibility and community service, National Bank of Kuwait organized a successful blood donation campaign for its employees at the bank's headquarters where employees from different departments and sectors showed strong participation and desire to contribute to this noble act, further highlighting NBK's belief that such campaigns play an effective role in providing support for the ill and in need. Such campaigns are part and parcel of NBK's strategy, as it aims to raise society's awareness about the importance of donating blood, as well as highlight how this act can save many lives and further enhance Kuwait's blood bank inventory. Moreover, NBK strives to instill acts of social responsibility at the core of its strategy, as it stands as an effective partner in social development through its various campaigns as well as the educational, environmental and healthcare initiatives that have become a true embodiment of the bank's deep commitment towards serving all society's segments. On their part, the Blood Bank team commended this benevolent initiative and applauded NBK's humanitarian endeavors that have always strived to serve the nation and society in the best way possible. NBK has always organized blood donations in support of Kuwait's Blood Bank and as an expression of social solidarity. Furthermore, NBK is committed to providing support for all healthcare institutions by organizing relevant events and campaigns to raise awareness and promote healthy lifestyles. It should be noted that NBK's record is filled with pioneering social and humanitarian initiatives across different sectors, including health awareness and illness prevention campaigns. At the forefront of these campaigns comes breast cancer awareness and early detection, diabetes, prostate cancer and many others.
Kuwait Times
13-06-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NBK wins ‘Best Bank for Sustainable Finance in Kuwait' by Global Finance
Affirming its ESG leadership in Kuwait's banking sector KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait was named Best Bank for Sustainable Finance in Kuwait for 2025 according to the fifth annual survey on Sustainable Finance conducted by the renowned Global Finance Magazine, marking a new achievement that highlights its leadership in the banking sector. This annual survey recognizes global and regional leadership in Sustainable Finance for initiatives designed from January to December 2024 to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change and help build a more sustainable future for humanity. This award recognizes NBK's continuous excellence and leadership in enhancing sustainable finance and incorporating sustainability within its operations and institutional culture. Moreover, the award reflects NBK's pivotal role in promoting the transformation into an economy that is more socially and environmentally responsible and sustainable. Criteria for evaluation included governance policies and goals as well as measurable achievements in environmental and social sustainability and demonstrated leadership in sustainable finance and investments. This year's awards were based on opinions and analyses of prominent trade and investment experts and executives, and they covered areas such as innovative sustainable finance offerings, impact-driven bond issues, community support and SME funding, climate change mitigation efforts, and transparency & reporting. It should be noted that this award is an addition to a long record of awards and high international rankings that NBK Group has been continuously receiving in recognition of its distinctive efforts. NBK is one of the first banks in Kuwait to adopt sustainable finance in its strategy and incorporate ESG standards in its business and operational procedures as well as its institutional culture. Furthermore, NBK launched several services and value propositions geared towards supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy across all its locations. These offerings include green mortgage loans, consumer loans for electric vehicles, financing options related to sustainability and low-emission housing loans, as well as sustainability-linked facilities tied to the achievement of pre-determined ESG KPIs to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices. Additionally, NBK successfully issued its first KD 500 million green bonds in 2024 as part of its global medium-term note program, which has a 6-year maturity and first call date after 5-years and is considered the first issuance by a Kuwaiti financial institution. In this context, NBK has recently published its first Green Bond Allocation and Impact Report, demonstrating traceability to the use of the bond proceeds towards green projects with clear and measurable environmental benefits. As of 31 March 2025, the Bank's eligible green asset portfolio reached $625 million, exceeding the bond value. By end of 2024, NBK's net sustainable assets value reached $4.97 billion, which is 50 percent of the targeted level for the year 2030 at USD 10 billion. NBK's ESG strategy aims to support economic development and emerge as a role model in the field through its four interrelated, foundational pillars that include Governance for Resilience, Responsible Banking, Capitalizing on our Capabilities, and Investing in our Communities. By obtaining prestigious awards in the field of sustainable finance over the past years, NBK has proven its commitment to these principles and leadership in the regional banking sector. More on its efforts on sustainability, NBK diligently works towards developing innovative sustainable finance solutions for its clients and customers to support their transition plans strategically, aligned with international standards and regulations to better respond to the world's rising demand for climate funding. Global Finance, founded in 1987, is one of the most reputable magazines specialized in finance and economics. It has a circulation of 50,000 readers in 188 countries, including senior corporate and financial officers responsible for making investment and strategic decisions at multinational companies and financial institutions. The magazine conducts various surveys annually about innovation and profitability for banks and financial institutions all over the world, based on which it selects top performers on the regional and international levels.
Kuwait Times
11-06-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NBK partners with iconic luxury retailer to launch Kuwait first ‘NBK-Harrods Visa Infinite Credit Card'
KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) has taken a significant step in its strategic alliance with Harrods—the world-class luxury retailer—by taking an exclusive partnership in Kuwait to launch the NBK-Harrods Visa Infinite Credit Card, Kuwait's first Luxury retail co-branded card designed for the high-end customer segment. True to NBK's commitment - meeting evolving customer needs and catering all segment types - this comes as the second co-branded credit card launched by NBK this year. It follows the introduction of the first retailer co-branded Card in the region. Both launches reflect the bank's ongoing commitment to delivering a distinctive banking experience, defined by exceptional service and premium lifestyle offerings. The NBK Harrods Visa Infinite Credit Card caters to avid shoppers and frequent travelers with a host of exclusive benefits tailored to their lifestyle—offered not only to NBK customers in Kuwait, but also to those residing in London through the bank's local branch. This launch underscores NBK's strategy to leverage its international footprint and deliver seamless, high-end banking experiences to its customers wherever they are in the world. The new card offers holders 7 Harrods Rewards points for every KD spent at Harrods Knightsbridge, Harrods Heathrow and Gatwick airport stores, at H beauty stores, on and via the Harrods app. Furthermore, cardholders will accumulate 5 Harrods Rewards points for every KD spent on international purchases, and 2 points for every KD spent on domestic transactions. Upon registration, the customer will be rewarded with 10,000 Harrods Rewards points when they activate the card and make their first purchase. Additionally, they will receive an annual reward of 10,000 Harrods Rewards points when their total purchases from Harrods reach KD 10,000. Cardholders will enjoy a suite of exclusive benefits, including an automatic upgrade to the Harrods Black tier membership, dedicated Harrods Dining Credit redeemable at restaurants within the Knightsbridge store, and a range of bespoke rewards, from priority access to Harrods events and personalized shopping services to complimentary lounge access at numerous international airports. Commenting on the launch of the new NBK-Harrods Visa Infinite Credit Card, Mohammed Al-Othman, CEO, Consumer and Digital Banking Group at National Bank of Kuwait, said: 'The launch of this card, the first of its kind in the local market, underscores the bank's commitment to enhancing the banking experience for its customers. Through strategic partnerships with leading institutions across various sectors, both locally and globally, we are able to offer exclusive benefits and rewards that go beyond traditional banking. This initiative is designed to cater to the finer details of our customers' lives, providing them with added value that not only meets their needs but often exceeds their expectations.' He emphasized that the expansion of NBK's premium product offerings is aligned with the bank's strategy to deliver a comprehensive range of products that cater to diverse customer segments, including shopping enthusiasts and luxury seekers. This approach ensures that customers receive rewarding solutions specifically designed to meet their unique needs and preferences. Alex Unitt, Partnerships Director, Harrods commented: 'We are delighted to introduce this new co-branded card in partnership with NBK, offering exceptional rewards to our valued customers in Kuwait. This exclusive partnership reflects Harrods legacy of excellence and our commitment to strengthening our global presence. Kuwait is an important element of this vision and we are proud to bring the unique Harrods experience closer to our customers here and around the world.' As for Visa, Shashank Singh, Visa's VP and General Manager for Kuwait and Qatar, stated: 'Visa's collaboration with NBK and Harrods in launching the NBK-Harrods Visa Infinite Credit Card reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing the payment experience for our premium cardholders in Kuwait in line with the government's digital commerce agenda. The new card offers holders a wide range of exclusive privileges and benefits, backed by Visa's latest security technologies and global acceptance at more than 150 million merchant partners, ensuring cardholders can use the card with complete confidence, both inside and outside Kuwait. ' NBK is consistently dedicated to offering rewarding promotions and exclusive value-added benefits to its diverse customer base, reinforcing its leadership position in the banking sector both locally, regionally, and globally. Harrods has been welcoming customers to its Knightsbridge store since 1849, and remains standing as an iconic beacon of luxury. With its diverse range of exquisite boutiques and architectural magnificence, Harrods attracts a distinguished clientele from every corner of the globe, cementing its status as the epitome of elegance and refinement. Harrods is home to more than 3000 curated brands as well as over 20 dining destinations and expert fashion, home, beauty and wellness services. In addition, Harrods serves customers via H beauty and airport stores and hospitality destinations in China and Qatar. Harrods continues to be guided by its philosophy of 'anything is possible' to ensure that customers enjoy unparalleled experiences with every visit. Mohammed Al-Othman, Alex Unitt and Dr Saeeda Jafar are pictured during the event.
