Abu Dhabi/Budapest, The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), one of the fastest-growing and leading exchanges in the Middle East, and the Budapest Stock Exchange (BSE), the second-largest exchange in Central and Eastern Europe, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a number of key initiatives. The signing took place on the sidelines of the state visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to Hungary. The signing ceremony took place at the offices of the BSE in the presence of H.E. Saud Hamad Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Hungary.
The MOU sets out to deepen relations between the two countries’ capital markets and share best practices. The agreement also marks another important step in the BSE’s efforts to build international relations, including in the Middle East. The development dovetails well with ADX’s ongoing efforts and initiatives to strengthen relationships with leading global financial institutions.
Within the framework of the agreement, the two parties will seek, among other things, to promote the visibility of the Hungarian and UAE capital markets by organizing joint events such as investor roadshows, seminars and educational programs. The parties are also exploring the possibility of cooperation in the development and promotion of ETF products in order to provide investors in both markets with more diversified and modern instruments. The BSE and ADX will also analyze the possibilities of dual listings and cross-border trading. The two exchanges are also planning closer professional cooperation in the field of ESG.
A key part of the agreement is the sharing and exchange of best practices, including on market developments, regulatory practices, product development and IT capacity building. The two parties will explore and evaluate appropriate pathways for the BSE to become part of the Tabadul Hub, a pioneering platform launched by ADX in 2022. As the region’s first digital exchange based on a mutual market access model, Tabadul facilitates seamless cross-border trading by connecting exchanges through a digital network and enabling brokerage firms to provide remote access to international markets.
On the signing of the MOU, Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), said: “This collaboration with the Budapest Stock Exchange marks a key milestone in ADX’s global integration journey, establishing a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation and innovation. Together, we aim to develop new financial products, including ETFs, indices, and other investment vehicles, to serve both local and international investors. The partnership also explores opportunities for cross-listings between the two markets, while the Tabadul Hub will further enhance digital connectivity and remote market access. This strategic alliance reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a dynamic and globally connected financial center committed to sustainable growth and shared prosperity.”
Tibor Tóth, CEO of the Budapest Stock Exchange, emphasized that the partnership not only strengthens the relationship between the two exchanges but also opens new opportunities for Hungarian and Emirati investors. “We are confident that these new initiatives will make our markets even more attractive to both domestic and international investors. Tabadul is a unique platform and initiative providing exciting opportunities for BSE”
This strategic collaboration is set to provide a robust platform for financial growth and connectivity between the UAE and Hungary, reflecting ADX’s and BSE’s commitment to global economic progress.