AIFC Weekly Digest
Stay up to date with the latest news from around the Centre.
Welcome to the New AIFC Weekly News Digest
Dear Colleagues,

We have some exciting updates to share with you this week!

Astana has made a notable leap in the latest Global Financial Centres Index, climbing to 62nd place among the world’s top financial hubs, up four spots from the previous ranking. This rise reflects the continuous efforts of the Astana International Financial Centre, which has been instrumental in transforming the city into a global financial powerhouse since its inclusion in the index in 2018.

The AIFC was a proud partner of the 14th Kazakhstan Legal Forum, held in Almaty on September 26-27. The event featured over 130 distinguished speakers and attracted around 400 participants, further solidifying Kazakhstan’s standing in the legal and financial sectors.

Last week, the AIFC welcomed a high-level delegation from China Construction Bank, one of China's largest and most influential financial institutions. The discussions laid the groundwork for strengthened collaboration, with both Kazakhstan and China standing to benefit from the initiatives explored during the visit.

The Weekly Market Overview is included in this digest. Last week, the financial markets experienced a blend of gains and losses, with different sectors leading on various days, highlighting the dynamic nature of the current economic climate.

Looking ahead, a major national event is on the horizon: a referendum on Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant is set for October 6, 2024. We have curated a selection of media articles offering insights into the debate, providing a comprehensive view of this important development.

Don’t miss the latest podcast featuring Mr. Thomas Krümmel, Chairman of the IAC, as he discusses the process of appointing experts by arbitral tribunals.

Additionally, AFSA has, for the first time, presented its regulatory approaches to Crypto and Digital Asset markets to the members of the International Organization of Securities Commissions, marking a significant step forward in Kazakhstan’s evolving financial landscape.

Finally, be sure to tune in to the AIFC Masters series on October 4, a dynamic workshop showcasing the hidden talents of our colleagues as they share their expertise in the field of investing.

Thank you for staying connected and engaged. Let’s continue to make strides together!

Best regards,
The AIFC Corporate Communications Team

Astana maintains regional leadership within the GFCI
Astana has made a significant leap in the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), securing 62nd place among the world's leading financial hubs, rising by four places compared to the previous ranking. This advancement marks Astana’s continued dominance in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region, where it has maintained its leadership for the fourth consecutive year.
KLF 2024 Unites Experts and Leaders in Almaty
On September 26-27, Almaty hosted the prestigious 14th Kazakhstan Legal Forum 2024, bringing together over 130 distinguished speakers and approximately 400 participants for in-depth discussions in a dynamic offline setting. The event was proudly supported by its main general partner, the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
Chinese CCB delegation visits AIFC
Last week, the AIFC was honoured to host a delegation from China Construction Bank (CCB), one of China's largest financial institutions. The high-level meeting included Mr Sheng Liurong, CFO of CCB Headquarters, and Renat Bekturov, CFA, Governor of the AIFC, who held productive discussions aimed at strengthening financial cooperation between the two institutions.
Weekly Market Overview: September 20-26
The last week saw alternating gains and losses, with different sectors leading on various days. Utilities and Basic Materials emerged as consistent gainers, while Energy and Industrials faced challenges. As Treasury yields fluctuated only slightly, investors kept a close watch on sector rotations and broader market sentiment.
Insights into Emerging Markets with R. Butler, Sturgeon Capital
In this interview, Mr. Butler shares insights from his unique background, exploring how it shapes his venture capital decision-making. He discusses the importance of local experience in building trust with founders and investors in emerging markets.
AIFC Media Update
News Digest
    AIFC Masters Workshop
    AIFC Masters is a dynamic series of workshops designed to uncover the hidden talents of our AIFC colleagues who excel in their passions beyond the workplace. On October 4, the following colleagues will share their expertise in the field of investing:

    - Yelena Pak: Investing for Everyone: Personal Insights from Outside Finance
    - Zharas Mussabekov: Capital Markets Infrastructure
    - Samal Murat: Eat, sleep, invest, repeat
    #AFD2024 Feedback
    We are thrilled to highlight the insights shared by Dolly Ramaiya, Founder of Truleum Studio, on her experience at Astana Finance Days 2024.

    Reflecting on the event, D. Ramaiya expressed her excitement: "I was pleasantly surprised by #AFD2024." She also stressed the need for increased participation from startup companies in future editions to drive innovation and growth even further.
    Updates from AIFC Court and IAC
    Check out the news from the fairest Court and Arbitration Centre!
      AFSA News
      News from the best regulator in the world
        HR Updates
        This section is dedicated to providing updates on new vacancies, organisational changes and other key HR developments. Stay informed about the opportunities and initiatives that shape our workforce and foster a collaborative environment.
        AIFC Talk: AIFC Academy 2.0: Bridging Corporate, Academic, and Digital Learning
        The presentation captivated the audience with a forward-thinking approach to education in an increasingly digitalised world. He highlighted how the AIFC Academy 2.0 is strategically positioned to bridge the gap between corporate, academic and digital learning, creating an integrated ecosystem that meets the needs of the modern workforce.
        INSPIRATION CORNER
        Public Speaking in the Corporate World
        Kazakhstan`s nuclear power referendum
        A referendum on the construction of Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant is scheduled for October 6, 2024. We have monitored the media and compiled a collection of relevant articles for your review.
        Cyber Tumar: Promoting Safe Internet for Kids
        Kazakhstan's children are accessing the Internet at younger ages, facing risks like cyberbullying, especially among girls. To help, UNICEF Kazakhstan and partners launched the Cyber Tumar campaign, offering tools for safe online navigation. The campaign aims to equip kids with skills to manage digital risks effectively.
        Dana Akhmet
        Internal Auditor
        Executive Office
        September 30
        Timur Alzhanov
        Senior Manager
        Technology Department
        September 30
        Assem Yessenbayeva
        Senior Associate
        Registration Division
        October 3