BANGKOK -(Dow Jones)- Laos plans to launch its first stock trading in September via over the counter transactions, president of the Securities Market Establishment Committee Dethphouvang Moularat said Thursday.
The move is a precursor to the expected debut of five stocks on the newly- established exchange in October next year, Dethphouvang added.
The first stock to be listed will be a local Laos bank and only investors in Laos will be able to deal in its shares via an over the counter system. Trading will be possible through two banks, including Krung Thai Bank PCL's (KTB.TH) branch in Laos, Dethphouvang told reporters in Thailand.
The other four companies expected to list on the bourse are involved in the beverage, power generating and telecommunication sectors.
The proportion of shares held by foreign investors will be limited, Dethphouvang said, without providing specifics.
Due to the tailspin of stock markets worldwide, the Laos exchange said it would be a mistake to have a large proportion of foreign shareholding in the market, he said.
After the bourse has been in operation for five years, the Laos exchange will review its foreign shareholding limit, he added.
The $20 millionLaos stock exchange will be jointly developed with South Korean securities officials. South Korea will hold a 49% stake in the exchange and the Laos government will hold the remainder.
Exciting news for Laos as it gears up for its first stock trading launch in September! The initiative, spearheaded by the Securities Market Establishment Committee, marks a significant milestone for the nation. The anticipated debut of five stocks on the newly-established exchange next October, including a local bank, sets the stage for economic growth. The exclusive over-the-counter system for local investors adds a unique touch. Kudos to Laos for strategic partnerships with banks like Krung Thai Bank PCL, facilitating trading accessibility. The diversified sectors of beverage, power generation, and telecommunications among the listed companies promise a dynamic market.
It's intriguing that the proportion of foreign investors will be restricted initially, a prudent move given the global stock market fluctuations. Dethphouvang's foresight on the potential impact of foreign shareholding on market stability is commendable. As Laos aims for a $20 million stock exchange, the collaboration with South Korean securities officials, with South Korea holding a 49% stake, highlights international cooperation. The commitment to reviewing foreign shareholding limits after five years demonstrates a forward-thinking approach.
In this era of financial evolution, investors worldwide are seeking the best paper trading apps for stocks and options to hone their skills. As Laos takes this bold step into the stock market realm, it will be interesting to witness the exchange's growth and its impact on the nation's economic landscape. Cheers to Laos and its partners for this momentous venture! 📈🌍 https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/best-paper-trading-apps-stocks-options-traders-union-com-bgwaf/