(24 October, 2016), Dubai, UAE – Stock exchanges play a crucial role in driving the growing green economy which will be so vital to implementing the Sustainable Development Goals. Ahead of the UNEP FI Global Roundtable, Dubai Financial Market (DFM) organized a special bell-ringing ceremony underlining DFM’s commitment to promote the sustainability of stock exchanges. Eric Usher, Head of the UNEP FI, rang the DFM market-opening bell in the presence of His Excellency Essa Kazim, Chairman of DFM and senior representatives of stock exchanges participating in the meetings.

Commenting on this, H.E. Essa Kazim said, “DFM is delighted to welcome the distinguished representatives of the UNEP and leading stock exchanges. This event has provided us with an unprecedented opportunity to celebrate stock exchanges’ joint efforts and successes in terms of sustainability over the past years. Our enthusiasm to observe this occasion stems from our deep belief in the importance of creating the necessary frameworks and environment for sustainability of stock exchanges and the financial sector in general and we hope that this drive gains further momentum during the coming period.” DFM became a Partner Exchange Member of the United Nation’s Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE) initiative in June 2016, as part of its continuous efforts to spearhead sustainability practices amongst capital markets. The exchange has implemented numerous initiatives that significantly strengthened sustainability and green economy practices within the exchange and listed companies.  Download the press release here.