The future of the BVL: inclusion, innovation, and expanded integration
The future of the BVL: inclusion, innovation, and expanded integration
The Lima Stock Exchange is moving toward a future of greater retail investor inclusion, increased digital access, and a more flexible regulatory environment for startups and fintechs. Mobile platforms, automated advisory tools, and financial education will be key to expanding the country’s investor base.
At the same time, it’s advancing interoperability with other exchanges, digital asset issuance, and alliances with international organizations to boost impact investing. The BVL aims to become a regional hub for sustainable instruments with deep liquidity and high transparency.
Building a modern, Latin American exchange
With over 160 years of history, the BVL is a model of resilience and innovation. Its future is defined by a blend of sustainability, inclusion, and technology—positioning it as a dynamic and regionally connected marketplace.
2024: Gender bonds and thematic issuances
2025: Digital platform for retail investors
2026: Pilot asset tokenization projects
2027: MILA expansion through new partnerships
Future: An inclusive, green, and digital Peruvian exchange
The BVL’s history reflects Peru’s commitment to a modern, competitive capital market with real economic and social impact. Its evolution places it as a key financial actor in the region.
The history of the Bolsa de Valores de Lima encapsulates the evolution of Peru’s financial system, marked by moments of rapid expansion and reform that have contributed to its modern, resilient character.
Product diversification, sustainability, and regional participation
Product diversification, sustainability, and regional participation
The BVL has diversified its portfolio to meet the needs of modern markets. Today, it facilitates trading in equities, corporate and government bonds, commercial paper, ETFs, mutual funds, derivatives, and structured products. Platforms for SMEs have been developed, along with support for ESG-aligned issuances.
As a founding member of the Latin American Integrated Market (MILA), the BVL enables cross-border trading with Chile, Colombia, and Mexico. This integration expands access to more issuers, boosts liquidity, and lets Peruvian investors access international securities through local intermediaries.
ESG momentum and digitalization
In recent years, the BVL has led the way in ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) practices—both operationally and by encouraging sustainable issuances. It has promoted green, social, and sustainability bonds and is recognized for participating in the UN’s Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative.
2011: BVL joins MILA
2015: First green bonds issued
2018: SME and entrepreneur platform launched
2021: ESG criteria integrated into listings
2023: Tokenization projects under evaluation
This strategic focus has helped position the BVL as a sustainability leader among emerging markets in Latin America.
Historical origins, modernization, and international opening
Historical origins, modernization, and international opening
The Lima Stock Exchange was officially established in 1861, though informal securities trading occurred decades earlier. Initially, it operated with limited volume and focused on mining stocks, bonds, and government debt. Throughout the 20th century, the exchange grew steadily, mirroring Peru’s economic development.
In the 1990s, the BVL began a significant modernization phase. Electronic trading systems were adopted, regulatory oversight was strengthened, and the Superintendence of the Securities Market (SMV) was created. These changes increased transparency, attracted new issuers, and boosted institutional investment participation.
Market unification and regulatory trust
Over the years, the BVL built a solid structure supported by CAVALI, Peru’s central securities depository. Peruvian law enables trading in fixed income, equities, derivatives, funds, and more. The regulatory framework has encouraged participation from pension funds, insurers, and other key players.
1861: Official founding of the BVL
1996: Launch of the ELEX electronic platform
2001: SMV assumes supervisory role
2010: BVL joins MILA
2020s: Focus on sustainability and inclusion
These developments positioned the BVL as a trusted and efficient platform for issuers and investors across Peru and the Andean region.
Last Update
31.3.25
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THE HISTORY OF THE LIMA STOCK EXCHANGE
The Lima Stock Exchange (BVL) is a cornerstone of Peru’s financial system. Since its formal founding in 1861, it has undergone major transformation—embracing digital platforms, modern regulation, and strategic integration. This article explores its origins, product evolution, and future as a more digital, sustainable, and inclusive marketplace.