Nasdaq & Amazon Web Services announce next generation infrastructure solutions

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) is set to embark on a modernization journey through a strategic collaboration with Nasdaq and Amazon Web Services (AWS). The partnership aims to drive the benefits of cloud technology into local market infrastructures, with the Nasdaq's Nordic markets being the first to adopt the blueprint. The collaboration also includes expanded modernization partnerships with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and Mexico's Grupo BMV. Leila Fourie, the CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, discussed the details of the partnership in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. Fourie highlighted that the agreement focuses on collaborating on common infrastructure with common standards to connect South Africa to the global liquidity pool, particularly in the United States, and create a gateway into Africa. Drawing parallels to a similar project more than 20 years ago with the London Stock Exchange, Fourie emphasized the positive impact of standardization in messaging, infrastructure, and business processes. The collaboration aims to create a common highway for enhanced access to deep pools of liquidity and global connectivity. The JSE has been in talks with Nasdaq and AWS for the past six to eight months, laying the groundwork for a long-term partnership. The initial focus will be on tech connectivity, enabling dual listings between Nasdaq and the JSE, and exploring areas such as carbon markets and digital assets. Fourie noted that despite global uncertainties, there has been a surprisingly positive sentiment among potential companies looking to list on the JSE. Recent dual listings from Nasdaq and the UK have demonstrated the JSE's appeal as a deep, liquid market, offering opportunities for small and mid-cap companies to engage and raise capital. As part of the collaboration, the JSE and Nasdaq will delve into additional joint business opportunities and share distribution skills and expertise. Fourie underscored the importance of reskilling JSE staff to keep pace with global technology trends, emphasizing collaboration with Nasdaq and AWS to tap into next-generation skills and drive digitization and modernization. The partnership holds the promise of elevating the JSE's technology infrastructure, enhancing market capabilities, and fostering global connectivity. As the JSE prepares to embark on this modernization journey, the collaboration with Nasdaq and AWS signals a transformative shift towards digital innovation and growth in the local market landscape.