DIFX takes its message to DFM

"The purpose of the exercise is to introduce the DIFX to the investors and brokers who have helped to make DFM such a success," explained Nasser Al Shaali, Chief Operations Officer of the DIFX. "We have been telling the brokers how they can become involved with the DIFX, and have been telling investors what the opportunities are at the DIFX."

In addition to the seminar, the DIFX placed an information booth at the entrance of the DFM to dispense information to investors and market professionals.

"There was a question mark over whether the DIFX would compete with the DFM, but we have said all along that they would be complementary," continued Al Shaali, "and the co-operation we have received from the DFM shows this to be true. They are different markets, however, the DIFX is the platform for locally listed companies to become listed globally. And our message is that traders and investors should be exposed to both."

The DIFX opened on September 26th, 2005 with five listed securities. These are structured products issued by Deutsche Bank, which cover the US S&P 500, the German DAX 30, the Japanese Nikkei 225, the EuroStoxx 50 and the Stoxx 50.

Investcom, the Lebanese telecommunications company, followed soon after with a listing of an initial public offering (IPO). DIFX aims to list 10 to 15 IPOs by the end of 2006 along with a range of other types of products.