Title: Press Release: The State of Kuwait Strengthens its Position as an international Financial Center: The Capital Markets Authority Grants an “Investment Advisor” License to Branch of Blackrock Advisors (UK) Company Limited

Strategic achievement that reflects the integration of the Country’s institutions and its ability to attract international companies

Kuwait, September 3, 2025 – In a move that reflects the growing position of the State of Kuwait on the international financial map, the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has announced granting an official license to branch of Blackrock Advisors (UK) Company Limited to practice the activity of investment advisor in the country. This company is one of the entities affiliated with Blackrock international group, which is considered one of the largest asset managers around the world.

This achievement is a milestone in the development of the Kuwaiti financial market, and it confirms the Country’s ability to attracts large international institutions. It is also considered a turning point within the national efforts that aim to strengthen the vision of Kuwait to become a leading international financial and commercial center that can attract international companies and strengthen its position in the regional and international markets to reflect an ambitious vision of transforming the State of Kuwait to a financial and commercial regional and international center.

The achievement Dimensions
This event is not limited to granting a new license, but it reflects the success of the institutional integration between the CMA, Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA), and the various related entities in the Country. This also reflects the efficiency of the regulatory structure, the flexibility of procedures, and speed of achievement, which enhances the attractiveness of Kuwait before the international investors.

Global Significance
The entrance of Blackrock into the Kuwaiti market is considered an international recognition of the State of Kuwait as a reliable financial center that owns regulatory and legislative capabilities to accommodate large international entities. This expansion contributes to enriching the local investment scene, opening new prospects of cooperation with the local financial sector, transferring technical expertise, and enhancing strategic partnerships both regionally and internationally.

Conclusion
Through this qualitative step, the State of Kuwait, once again, proves that it is a preferred destination to leading international companies, and that continues enhancing its position on the international financial scene. This achievement is a clear evidence of the Country’s ambitious vision and developed institutional capabilities that enable it to become a main regional platform for the international companies wishing to expand their operations in the region.

Ends-
Notes to Editors:
The Capital Markets Authority was established pursuant to Law No. 7/2010, approved by the Kuwaiti Parliament in February 2010. Pursuant to the Law, the CMA shall regulate and supervise the securities activities, achieve transparency and fairness, observe listed companies’ execution of Corporate Governance regulations, and protect investors from unfair practices which violate the CMA's Law.

Furthermore, the Law's provisions stipulate the supervision of mergers, acquisitions, and disclosure operations. The CMA also aims to provide awareness programs related to securities activities.

For further information, please contact:
Public Relations & Media Office
Tel: 1888898
Email: pr-media@cma.gov.kw