Durrant Pate/Contributor

The Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) board of directors has returned unchanged from last Wednesday’s (June 25) 48th annual general meeting.

Held at the equities regulator’s Harbour Street headquarters in downtown Kingston, chairman Steven Whittingham and his deputy Steven Gooden, were returned to office for another year.

The other returning directors include Rezworth Burchenson, Gary Peart, Eric Scott, Angus Young, Julian Mair, Jason Chambers, Livingstone Morrison, Janet Morrison, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, Kerry-Ann McKoy Tulloch, Michael B. McNaughton, Dian Black, Sabrina Cooper and Roxanne Hutchinson (company secretary).

At the AGM, Whittingham presented the annual report for the year 2024, which, he said, demonstrates a commendable performance with the market regulator chalking up a net profit of J$496 million, up from JJ$416 million in 2023, while earnings per share increased from $0.59 to $0.71.

Strategic plans articulated

Whittingham articulated the JSE’s strategic plan moving forward, which focused on the following:

• Diversifying income streams

• Strengthening partnerships with Caribbean neighbours

• Expanding product offerings and market reach;

• Increasing listings

• Enhancing the quality of customer service and,

• Building a collaborative global network

Street-Forrest, the JSE’s managing director, reminded the meeting that last July, the exchange launched the Jamaica Green, Social, Sustainability and Sustainability-Linked Bond Guide (GSS+), which was developed with support from IDB Invest and other partners.

It serves as a blueprint for issuers, investors and stakeholders in navigating the green financing landscape. 

She reiterated, “Through the Jamaica Social Stock Exchange (JSSE), we continued to support initiatives that drive social development and community empowerment. Our efforts in environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices underscore our dedication to fostering a more inclusive and sustainable financial market.”

Looking ahead, Street-Forrest said the JSE will continue to refine and build out its strategic journey through a team-based approach, anchored in working with our stakeholders, cross-sector collaboration and a shared commitment to innovation and market resilience. 

“We are confident that our strategy for development will ensure the success of our investors, companies, and attractiveness of our markets,” she declared.