The Middle East Investor Relations Society (ME-IR Society) has announced that it today launched its Kuwait chapter, aiming to improve the quality of investor relations practices and related educational resources in the country.

The announcement came as Euromoney concluded its premier economy and strategy forum at Kuwait City; titled ‘Kuwait and the Global Economy – uncertain times.’ The ME-IR Society was an official partner of the conference.

The Kuwait board includes Zain, National Bank of Kuwait and Kipco, and on behalf of the IR Society; Rothschild and Bank of New York Mellon.

The chapter will focus on promoting investor relations as a distinct and essential part of the corporate landscape, and seek to enhance the reputation, efficiency and attractiveness of Kuwait’s capital market, said a statement.

Mohammad Abdal, inaugural chairman of the Kuwait board, IR director of Zain, said: “Relationships with investors are crucial to the long-term success of a firm. Transparent and frequent communication will truly achieve a share price accurately reflecting a company's underlying value.”

“We hope that though the launch of this project and the combined efforts of our board members, companies in Kuwait will find it easier to find guidance on these topics and adopt best practices of investor relations,” he said.

Through the partnership, the Kuwait chapter will organise workshops and host annual IR conferences in line with its other chapters, the statement said.

ME-IR Society conferences typically discuss the practical and strategic challenges of operating dedicated IR departments whilst inviting members to discuss tools and solutions for effective investor relations.

Peter Gotke, chapter chair of the ME-IR Society, said: “By establishing a network of local chapters, the Middle East Investor Relations Society can help regional companies become better prepared to function as public entities via corporate governance and capital management strategies.”

ME-IR Society certified investor relations officer training courses will be announced in the near future, along with literature explaining the role of the committee and joining details for companies in Kuwait, the statement said. – TradeArabia News Service