Fiji’s stock market demonstrated robust performance in 2024, reflecting a strong economic recovery and renewed investor confidence. Key indicators such as market capitalisation, trading volumes, and investor participation showed significant improvement, supported by growth in sectors like tourism, construction, and financial services.
The South Pacific Stock Exchange (SPX), Fiji’s sole licensed securities exchange, attributed this performance to an increasing awareness of the stock market among businesses and investors. Several companies listed on the exchange have reported stronger financial results, attracting both institutional and retail investors. The positive trends have also been influenced by government initiatives encouraging local businesses to seek capital through equity markets.
While the 2024 results were encouraging, the SPX is now focusing on deepening its outreach to ordinary Fijians to ensure more inclusive participation in the stock market. Recognising the gap in public understanding of the stock market and its benefits, the SPX has launched a grassroots initiative to promote financial literacy and educate people about investment opportunities.
Grassroots outreach to drive market awareness
SPX Chief Executive Sheraj Obeyeskere announced plans to prioritise market awareness in 2025, aiming to bridge the gap between the stock market and the general public. “Awareness is important. Right now, we feel that it has not been as robust as it can be, because the public are not aware about what the share market is, the benefits, how to invest in shares, and what the listed companies are,” said Obeyeskere, as quoted in FBC News.
The initiative involves visiting at least 100 villages across Fiji to educate communities about the stock market’s role in the economy and how individuals can participate. A dedicated officer has been appointed to lead this effort, focusing on simplifying complex financial concepts and providing practical advice on investing.
“Financial literacy is important in this modern day and age,” said Obeyeskere. “The aim of the SPX is to ensure Fijians make informed investment decisions on the stock market.” Through this outreach, the SPX hopes to empower individuals with knowledge about investment opportunities, enabling them to diversify their savings and build long-term wealth.
The grassroots initiative aligns with the SPX’s broader strategy to grow the local investor base and enhance the stock market’s contribution to Fiji’s economic development. By bringing financial education directly to villages, the SPX aims to foster a culture of informed investing, which can lead to broader participation in the economy.
This move is expected to complement the broader efforts to deepen the stock market, encourage local businesses to list, and enhance the financial ecosystem in Fiji. With an ambitious target and a revitalised approach, the SPX is set to play a pivotal role in shaping Fiji’s financial future.
