The Bermuda Stock Exchange is launching a new initiative to increase investor resilience and to encourage sustainable finance with listed companies and trading members.

The announcement came as the BSX joined with issuers in the Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy 2022 ceremony at Exchange House, the stock exchange’s new headquarters on Pitts Bay Road.

The Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy initiative supports the International Organisation of Securities Commissions World Investor Week taking place from October 3-9.

The global campaign is aimed at raising awareness of the importance of investor education and protection.

Key messages of the campaign this year are based around two themes: investor resilience and sustainable finance.

Greg Wojciechowski, CEO of the exchange, said: “BSX is pleased to once again participate in the IOSCO WIW with our goal this year to enhance the interaction and communication between listed issuers, trading members, shareholders and the Exchange.

“Environmental, social and governance policies are important factors increasing shareholder value and as part of our efforts to promote financial sustainability, we are working with our members and listed companies to promote the greater use of electronic communications with shareholders.”

Thomas P. Gallagher, chairman of BSX, and chairman and CEO of MIAX, said: “ESG initiatives are a critical area of focus for the global financial community, and we are pleased to support the IOSCO 2022 WIW campaign to help promote investor education around the world.”

“One of MIAX’s key ESG pillars is to promote greater financial literacy, and we firmly believe that investing in our local communities to provide education and responsible trading resources will help investors plan for their future financial wellbeing.”

The exchange is encouraging investors to ensure their contact details are up to date on shareholder registers of companies for which they hold shares and to check with their broker and/or investment adviser to ensure they are receiving timely investor information.

BSX wants shareholders to “go green” and support companies’ and the exchange’s efforts to promote sustainable finance in Bermuda by signing up for electronic distribution of communications and investor materials to reduce impact on the environment as well as reduce costs.

It is also adopting more environment-friendly practices with its listed issuers, sponsors and trading members in an effort to reduce its carbon footprint by accepting electronic copies of listing documentation and annual reports for filing and dissemination.