View Only Terminal: Innovating the Zim securities market

ONE of the key determinants for assuring investor protection is simply timely information disclosure. Information needs to be readily accessible, comprehensive and distributed in an equitable manner to enable investors to make informed decisions. Disclosure should be viewed as a “public good” that is meant to benefit the whole investing public and prospective investors. It builds investor confidence and improves risk management. An informed investor is an equipped investor.

In this regard, efforts are therefore underway for the Zimbabwe securities market to introduce innovative investment operations in line with international best practice. The Commission applauds all capital market players for various ongoing initiatives aimed at improving market transparency. Remember, the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) automated its trading system on July 6, 2015 thereby bringing the manual trading system to an end. An Automated Trading System (ATS) is an electronic platform used by the ZSE for the purchase and sale of securities (shares, bonds, debenture among others). However, access to real time information from both systems was limited to stockbrokers only.

In order to extend access to real time trading information to the general public, the Exchange recently introduced a View Only Terminal (VOT) with effect from February 8, 2017. A VOT is an electronic platform that gives investors viewing rights to ZSE trading as it takes place through the ATS.

Investors can use their laptops, desktops, television screens or even mobile phones to access the terminal as long as there is an internet connection. A normal computer or mobile phone with standard operating software and reasonably fast internet connectivity will be sufficient.

Upcoming AGMs Barclays Bank of Zimbabwe, Meikles Hotel, Mirabelle Room, May 11, 1500 hours

BAT, Local Head Office, 1 Manchester Road, Harare, May 11, 1100 hours

CBZ Holdings Limited, Meikles Hotel, May 11, 1500 hours

ZB Financial Holdings Limited, Board Room, 21 Natal Road, Avondale, Harare, May 12,1030 hours