Bahamas Securities Exchange, Bahamas Stock Exchange

 

The Bahamas International Securities Exchange Limited (BISX) is a securities exchange in the Bahamas. The exchange was incorporated in September 1999 and it successfully launched its domestic market for the listing and trading of domestic public companies later in May 2000.

At present, there are seventeen domestic public companies that are listed on BISX. Further expanding its operations, the exchange in April 2001 launched a Mutual Fund listing facility with the objective of meeting the needs of the international investors. Such a facility became a necessity as the international investors may require extra visibility that can be afforded by a listing on an established securities exchange.

Pursuant to the Securities Industry Act, 1999, the Bahamas International Securities Exchange has been formally registered with the Securities Commission of the Bahamas as a “Securities Exchange”.
In its capacity as a securities exchange the BISX is vested with the authority and responsibility to regulate the activities of members and listed companies on the basis of the BISX rules. The purpose is to ensure fairness and transparency as it relates to the enforcement of regulatory responsibilities, membership, listing procedures, continuing obligations and pursuing disciplinary action.

The administration of the company is in the hands of a Chairman, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The organizational structure has been given effect in such a way, which ensures BISX has both a commercial and a regulatory focus. The exchange was incorporated as a private entity and is owned by 45 dedicated shareholders consisting of stockbrokers, banks, investment companies, pension funds, mutual fund administrators, corporations, and individuals.