QFMA issues new listing rules and governance code for funds

The Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) announced on Monday the issuance of Governance Code for Listed Funds and Listing Rules for Funds' Units listed in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE). This issuance comes as a part of the QFMA's ongoing development of its regulations to enhance attractiveness of investment environment of the capital market, as well as to increase diversity of the financial products listed on the QSE.

The QFMA said in its statement on Monday that it will continue to strengthen its regulations to meet the investors' needs by adopting the best international practices related to investment funds and relevant governance.

This is a significant step for the QFMA while exerting efforts to develop the Qatari capital market, and strengthening the elements that attract local and international funds for listing on the QSE.

The QFMA added that the revision and updating of the Listing Rules and Governance Code would provide a clear framework for the local and international fund management companies to be listed on the QSE and encourage the development of asset management in the State of Qatar.

The QFMA targets the advancement of Qatari capital markets to serve as a model for financial services.

It aims at investors protection, maintenance of Qatari capital markets stability, integrity and transparency; and development of proficiency and knowledge to enhance the growth and diversity of the national economy.

The QFMA undertakes the responsibility of regulating, controlling and supervising the financial markets; regulating the dealing of the securities activities with fairness, competitiveness and transparency; raising public awareness of securities activities and promote in securities investment and development; monitoring the investors dealing rules governing activities related to trading of securities and other type; implementing disclosure policy in order to achieve fairness, transparency and prevent conflict of interests and internal information exploitation; and combating the causes of crimes related to the financial markets.