The Iraq Stock Exchange (ISX) recorded a total trading volume exceeding 53 billion Iraqi dinars, equivalent to around $40.5 million, during October. The performance reflected moderate activity and investor caution amid ongoing global and domestic market shifts.
According to ISX data, about 38 billion shares were traded across 22 sessions throughout the month. Out of 104 listed companies, 80 participated in trading, with investors executing 18,316 buy and sell transactions. Iraq Stock Exchange reported that ISX60 Index closed at 940.17 points, marking a 2.4% decline compared to its previous level in September.
Analysts said weak liquidity inflows and a cautious market mood drove the decline, as investors reacted to currency changes and global oil price swings. They also highlighted that Stock Exchange remains sensitive to macroeconomic trends and government fiscal policies, which continue to shape investor confidence.
Trading activity concentrated in the banking and telecommunications sectors, followed by industry, tourism, and agriculture. Investors showed interest in large-cap stocks and companies with consistent dividend histories. The Stock Exchange noted that these sectors account for a major share of total market capitalization, making them key drivers of trading momentum.
Financial experts emphasized that Iraq’s gradual digital transformation in capital markets is improving efficiency and transparency. Iraq Stock Exchange expanded its electronic trading systems to attract more domestic and foreign investors in the coming months.
The exchange operates five sessions per week, from Sunday to Thursday, providing a regulated platform for investment across multiple sectors, including banking, telecommunications, agriculture, insurance, financial investment, tourism, and hospitality.
The Iraq Stock Exchange continues to play a vital role in Iraq’s economic reform agenda, promoting capital formation, private sector growth, and foreign participation.