18 Oct, 2016Nasdaq Dubai expands equity futures market by adding two more leading companies

• Arrival of ADCB and UPP raises number of underlying UAE companies to nine

• Phased growth of market will include equity indices in due course

Nasdaq Dubai will add Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) and Union Properties (UPP) to its equity futures market, raising the number of leading UAE companies on which futures can be traded to nine.

The market opened on September 1, 2016, to provide regional and international investors with unique new tools for investment and wealth protection.

Market making services on all the futures are provided by SHUAA Capital.

Hamed Ali, Chief Executive of Nasdaq Dubai, said: "The addition of ADCB as a prominent bank and UPP as a leading property company provides attractive new opportunities for investors wishing to take a range of positions in the UAE capital markets. The benefits of leverage, and the ability to make gains when underlying shares are falling as well as rising, are among the innovative features that the market offers. "

A total of 43,219 single stock futures contracts have traded since the market opened. One contract represents 100 shares.

Abdul Rahman Hareb Rashed Al Hareb, Chairman of SHUAA Capital said: "The addition of ADCB and UPP on the equity futures market highlights the progress undertaken since its inception in September. The ongoing development of the UAE financial markets is a source of great pride for all involved. In addition, their listing will also contribute positively to market liquidity. We are pleased to be the lead market marker for the nine listed companies."

Nasdaq Dubai plans a phased expansion of its futures market in coming months, including futures and options on shares of other companies listed on MENA exchanges, as well as futures on equity indices.

Brokerage services are provided to the market by Al Ramz Capital, Arqaam Capital, EFG Hermes, Integrated Securities, Menacorp and Mubasher Financial Services Dubai. Nasdaq Dubai is in discussion with other regional and international financial institutions that are also interested in providing services to the market.