Miami International Holdings Inc. (MIAX) announced Tuesday that its exchange subsidiary has signed a cross-border partnership that could open new pathways between Western investors and Middle Eastern markets.
The International Stock Exchange (TISE), a Miami International unit, entered into a memorandum of understanding with Boursa Kuwait. The deal sets the stage for both exchanges to explore joint initiatives that could reshape how global issuers access Kuwait's emerging market status.
At the heart of the agreement is a plan to share technical and operational know-how. The exchanges intend to develop specialized listings designed to pull in international issuers while simultaneously making Middle Eastern investment channels more accessible to global investors. Both parties also flagged sustainable finance products as an area of focus, signaling that ESG-linked offerings could emerge from the collaboration.
What the Executives Are Saying
Cees Vermaas, CEO of TISE, positioned the partnership as a natural fit for two exchanges with aligned ambitions. "We are pleased to sign this MoU with Boursa Kuwait as we share a common vision of developing a more interconnected and sustainable financial environment," Vermaas said. He emphasized that the cooperation could unlock fresh investment routes into Kuwait and the broader region.
Mohammad Saud Al-Osaimi, CEO of Boursa Kuwait, framed the agreement as validation of his exchange's growing international profile. "The signing of this MoU reaffirms Boursa Kuwait's commitment to fostering international cooperation and exchanging expertise with global financial institutions, further enhancing the Kuwaiti capital market's position as an attractive investment destination in the region," Al-Osaimi said. He pointed to fintech, infrastructure, and sustainable finance as priority areas for collaboration.
How the Partnership Works
The memorandum of understanding was announced December 23. TISE operates from Guernsey and maintains operational connections in Dublin, Jersey, and London. Boursa Kuwait ranks among the most significant exchanges in the Middle East and carries emerging-market status in major global indices, giving it credibility with institutional investors looking for exposure to the region.
The partnership reflects a broader trend of regional exchanges forging alliances to compete for international listings and capital flows. By combining TISE's European connectivity with Boursa Kuwait's regional reach, both exchanges position themselves to capture issuers that want a foot in multiple markets.
MIAX stock has surged more than 53% over the past year. Investors seeking exposure to the stock can access it through Horizon Kinetics Blockchain Development ETF (BCDF).
MIAX Price Action: Miami International Holdings (MIAX) shares climbed 5.92% to $47.26 in premarket trading Tuesday.