FAIPS-DPS students visit Boursa Kuwait for hands-on learning
The visit to Kuwait’s stock exchange gave students a firsthand look at financial markets and valuable guidance on starting their trading and investment journey.
• The trip of FAIPS-DPS students began with an informative presentation outlining the history and evolution of Boursa Kuwait. Officially inaugurated in September 1984, Boursa Kuwait began its stock exchange operations in 1986.
The commerce department of FAIPS – DPS organized an educational visit to Boursa Kuwait, the country’s official stock exchange, on September 12. Students from Class 12, specializing in commerce, humanities, and economics, participated in the excursion.
The primary goal of the visit was to provide the studentswith a unique opportunity to observe the workings of financial markets firsthand. Through this experience, theyaimed to deepen their understanding of financial transactions, market dynamics, and real-world economic principles in action.
The trip began with an informative presentation outlining the history and evolution of Boursa Kuwait. Officially inaugurated in September 1984, Boursa Kuwait began its stock exchange operations in 1986. However, the market faced a major interruption due to a financial crisis, leading to a three-year trading halt. During this period, the number of listed companies dropped from 54 to 28.
Today, Boursa Kuwait includes around 170 companies. A significant development occurred in February 2019 when private entities acquired 44% of its shares. This was followed by a major shift in ownership in September 2019, with Kuwaiti citizens acquiring 50% of the shares. This evolving ownership structure reflects BoursaKuwait’s continuous adaptation and growth within the financial sector.
After the presentation, students were introduced to the stock market’s organizational structure and its key components. They observed live exchange rates in the main hall, which displays two primary segments: the Premier Market and the Main Market.
The Premier Market, consisting of 30 leading companies, is known for its strict regulatory requirements and higher levels of international investment.
In contrast, the Main Market includes a larger number of companies and attracts more local investors. Central electronic boards display real-time data for both market segments and the overall stock exchange. Trading activities are facilitated by broker firms located within the hall, ensuring smooth trading operations.
The students received valuable guidance on starting their journey in trading and investment. They also interacted with Boursa Academy, a virtual platform that offers simulated trading using virtual currency, helping users understand market dynamics and prepare for real-world investments. This experience was highly appreciated, and the students expressed their gratitude to the FAIPS community for its ongoing support and dedication to commerce-focused educational initiatives.
The trip concluded with a memorable and enlightening experience, leaving a lasting impression on the students. The unique insights and exposure they gained during the visit are expected to shape their perspectives on the financial world for years to come.