AIX presents its results for 1Q2026 AIX delivers near threefold increase in trading turnover vs 1Q2025
Astana International Exchange (“AIX” or “the Exchange”) has delivered an exceptional start of 2026, with trading activity surging to nearly three times the level recorded in 1Q2025. Total trading value reached almost $553 million for the first three months of the year, a remarkable increase from approximately $190 million in the same period of 2025. Average daily turnover (ADT) climbed to $9.5 million substantially outperforming the $5+ million target.
Assel Mukazhanova, AIX CEO, said:
“These results highlight AIX’s continued commitment to sustainable growth, enhancing shareholders’ value, and delivering meaningful outcomes for clients by responding to their evolving needs. In the first quarter we achieved strong progress across all key performance indicators including trading volumes, capital formation, and the expansion of our ecosystem through new brokers and custodians. These achievements reflect the deepening trust and engagement of both local and international market participants and reinforces our dedication to supporting our clients and driving long-term value.”
AIX results as of 31 March 2025:
- Securities listings: 29 securities listed by 24 issuers overall, 376 listings as of March 2026.
- Capital raised: (Debt + Equity): $12.4bn since inception; $538 mln for 1Q2026.
- Trading turnover: $552.6 mln. vs $188.2 mln in 1Q2025.
- ISINs issued: 55 in 1Q2026.
- Market participants: 68 trading members, including brokers from Kazakhstan, China, Europe and Middle East – 2 new brokers were onboarded in 1Q2026.
- Custody: 20 custodians – 1 onboarded in 1Q2026. Nine (9) global custodians maintain sub-accounts at the AIX Central Securities Depository (AIX CSD).
- Investor base: 2.3 mln retail investors’ accounts with AIX CSD.
AIX listings in 1Q2026
A total of 29 listings were recorded in 1Q2026, with debt placements and structured funds continuing to drive capital market activity.
- February 19, 2026 – US$20M Public Bonds of Kazakhstan Utility Systems LLP under its US$70M Public Bond Programme
- March 2, 2026 – US$25M bonds of Home Credit Bank (subsidiary of ForteBank) under its Public Bond Programme
- March 19, 2026 – US$400M Guaranteed Coupon Bonds of Freedom Finance SPC Ltd. under its US$1 bn Programme
- March 20, 2026 – US$5 bn 2nd tranche of Sukuk of Asia Mineral Resource SPC Ltd. issued under USD 50mln Sukuk Programme
International Cooperation
Within the framework of international cooperation, 17 exchange-traded funds (ETFs) registered in Kazakhstan became available via the Tabadul Digital Exchange Hub – a cross-border market access platform linking participating exchanges and licensed brokers.
These include ETFs such as the Fonte Bitcoin and Fonte Solana Exchange Traded Funds, ITS Shariah and World ETFs, as well as global single-stock ETFs providing exposure to leading international blue-chip companies.
Rules and Regulations
As of 8 February 2026, AIX implemented updates to its Business Rules aimed at aligning the regulatory framework with international best practices and enhancing market accessibility, transparency, and efficiency.
Key amendments include mandatory Market Maker appointment for equity issuers, expansion of the Direct Listing regime beyond REM companies, and refinements to the listed funds framework. The updated Rules also streamline certain requirements, including governance provisions for debt issuers, process agent obligations, and disclosure timelines.
In addition, new obligations for trading members have been introduced to strengthen market supervision and investor communication, while terminology and regulatory provisions have been aligned with AIFC standards.
AIX Registrar as National Numbering Agency for the AIFC territory
Following its designation by the Association of National Numbering Agencies in December 2025, the AIX Registrar started issuing ISINs for AIFC-registered entities in January 2026. 55 ISINs were issued during Q1 2026. This represents a new line of business for AIX, contributing positively to the Exchange’s revenue streams.
Reference:
AIX was formed in 2017 within the Astana International Financial Centre development framework. AIX shareholders are AIFC, the Shanghai stock exchange, the Silk Road Fund, and NASDAQ, which also provides the AIX trading platform. The exchange operates within a regulatory environment based on the principles of English Law, thus providing a reliable investment environment. www.aix.kz
The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction where investors and business meet emerging opportunities of Kazakhstan and Central Asia in a transparent and sustainable environment backed by the principles of English Common Law. aifc.kz
