EGX Chairman pointed out the role of digital transformation in developing financial markets, enhancing trading efficiency and expanding the base of investors specially youth.

 

Dr. Azzam expressed his pleasure at participating in this important academic event, highlighting that innovation and financial technology have emerged as the most influential forces shaping the future of the global economy, particularly in light of the rapid transformations currently taking place in international markets. He highlighted that the volume of global investments in Fintech companies exceeded US$ 200 billion during the recent years, with an annual growth rates ranging between 15% - 20%, which reflects structural transformation from traditional models to advanced digital solutions.

 

Also, he said that Egypt witnessed remarkable development regarding Fintech sector, as the number of companies operating in this field increased to more than 170 company, in parallel with the large expansion of electronic payment applications and digital financial services, which became serving tens of millions users supporting state’s efforts of financial inclusion and transition towards digital economy.

 

Regarding the stock market, he noted that the number of companies listed on the Egyptian Exchange (EGX) has reached approximately 250, distributed across the main market and the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) market, with a market value approaching EGP 3 trillion (about US$ 62 billion), achieving growth exceeding 42% during 2025, with accumulative growth about 390% compared to the end of July 2022. This reflects development of the market enhancing its role in financing economic growth.

 

He emphasized that the financial technology applications led to a fundamental transformation in the structure of investors, as the number of new registered investors increased to 276,000 annually, approximately 20% more than last year. He added that youth represents around 79% of new investors, which reflects success of exerted efforts to increase financial awareness and attract new segments to the market.

 

EGX Chairman clarified that we finalized updating the new main trading platform, planned to be launched officially during year 2026. Besides updating more than 10 of the major supporting systems, in the framework of a comprehensive plan for enhancing the efficiency of digital infrastructure and improving its operational readiness. He added that EGX’s investments in the field of technology recorded 100% growth over the last year, whereas the investments dedicated for cybersecurity increased about 40%, which enhances systems protection and ensures sustainability of operations in a secure digital environment.

 

He highlighted that digital transformation has had a direct impact on market efficiency and trading depth through the introduction of a range of specialized digital systems, including the Government Fixed Income Trading (GFIT) system, the Global Depositary Receipts (GDR) system, and the EGX Gate application. These platforms provide an integrated digital experience for investors, contributing to reduced transaction execution time, improved levels of disclosure and transparency, and stronger support for informed investment decision-making.

 

He added that EGX is currently working on several strategic projects, foremost among them the launch of a financial derivatives market, which requires advanced technological development and continuous upgrades to the digital infrastructure. This is complemented by efforts to support brokerage firms in expanding their use of digital solutions, in line with the state’s direction to enhance financial inclusion and improve overall market efficiency.

 

Regarding human capacity development, he explained that approximately 18% of EGX’s workforce is employed in the information technology sector. He emphasized that building technical competencies and fostering a flexible work culture are key pillars of the EGX’s digital transformation strategy.

  

Dr. Islam Azzam concluded his speech by emphasizing that investment in human capital is the cornerstone of building sustainable financial markets. He stressed that university students are the future architects of the financial market, and that such scientific conferences serve as a vital platform for promoting integration between academic research and practical application, as well as for fostering dialogue and the exchange of perspectives between younger generations and decision-makers.