Astana International Exchange (“AIX”, “Exchange”) is pleased to announce that the debut tranche of social bonds issued by Social-Entrepreneurial Corporation “Aktobe” JSC (“SEC Aktobe”) has been listed and admitted to trading on AIX.
The first tranche in the amount of KZT 100,000,000 was issued under the KZT 1,000,000,000 Bond Programme. The bonds carry a 20% coupon rate and mature on September 4th, 2028.
Proceeds from the issuance will be allocated to financing SEC Aktobe’s core strategic activities, including investment and innovation infrastructure, support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, implementation of industrial and agro-industrial projects, and the development of export-oriented production.
Assel Mukazhanova, CEO of AIX, noted:
“In 2023, we waived listing fees for ESG bonds to encourage both public and private sector issuers to bring bonds to market that are designed to positively impact people’s lives. We are delighted to see how the stock market helps different organizations create value in the regions for the benefit of local communities”.
Auyez Taimbetov, Chairman of the Management Board of SEC “Aktobe” JSC, stated:
“The placement of social bonds on AIX is an important step for our corporation. The funds raised will allow us to expand support for entrepreneurs, stimulate the development of social and production infrastructure, and implement projects of significant importance for the region. We are confident that this instrument will contribute to the sustainable development of the Aktobe region’s economy and the improvement of the quality of life of the local population”.
Manas Gizhduaniyev, CEO of AIFC Green Finance Centre, added:
“This issuance is significant not only for SEC Aktobe but also for the entire social finance ecosystem in Kazakhstan. Given the increasing need for alternative sources of funding for government and quasi-governmental organisations, this step serves as a strong signal to other socio-entrepreneurial corporations across the country. GFC is proud to be the first to provide a Second-Party Opinion for ESG-themed bonds issued by such a corporation in Kazakhstan, and we look forward to supporting similar issuances from other SECs”.