The future of the BVP: integration, sustainability, and full digitalization
The future of the BVP: integration, sustainability, and full digitalization
The Panama Stock Exchange is entering a new phase focused on sustainability, digitalization, and regionalization. It is promoting growth in green finance, listings from innovative companies, and the implementation of blockchain solutions and digital custody systems.
At the same time, it is working to deepen integration with other Latin American markets, enable cross-border offerings, harmonize regulatory frameworks, and develop regional investment vehicles. Fintechs, pension funds, and SMEs are expected to play a major role in revitalizing Panama’s capital market ecosystem.
Building a competitive and regional market
With over three decades of history, the BVP stands as a modern, resilient, and forward-looking exchange. Its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and integration makes it a key platform for Panama’s economic development and the region’s financial future.
2024: New ESG issuances and sustainable funds
2025: Adoption of blockchain in core operations
2026: Regional platform for SME issuers
2027: Central American integrated investment fund
Future: A digital, green, and regional Panamanian exchange
The story of the BVP is the story of a country connecting financial innovation with institutional stability. Its future points toward a more agile, accessible, and regionally integrated market.
The history of the Panama Stock Exchange reflects the country’s emergence as a regional financial hub, evolving through phases of modernization and regulatory reform that have paved the way for a dynamic trading environment.
Digital transformation, innovative products, and regional reach
Digital transformation, innovative products, and regional reach
In the past decade, the BVP has led a digital transformation aimed at enhancing competitiveness and efficiency. Electronic trading systems, public information platforms, and digital primary issuance tools were launched. Automated surveillance and analytics tools were also integrated.
The exchange has diversified its product offering to include trusts, green bonds, sustainable issuances, investment funds, and structured products. It has signed agreements for cross-listing foreign securities and enabling interoperability with other regional exchanges, particularly in Central America and the Caribbean.
Financial education and investor inclusion
The BVP has developed education campaigns, stock market fairs, and partnerships with universities to build financial literacy and expand retail investor participation. It has also worked with multilateral organizations to implement ESG standards and strengthen corporate governance among listed companies.
2014: Digital primary market platform launched
2017: First green bond issued in Panama
2019: Integration efforts with regional exchanges
2021: National digital financial education programs
2023: Increased focus on tokenization and fintech
The BVP’s mix of innovation, education, and solid institutional backing has positioned it as a strategic node in Latin America’s financial system.
Founding, business leadership, and early issuances
Founding, business leadership, and early issuances
The Panama Stock Exchange was founded in June 1990 by a group of business leaders and financial sector pioneers with the goal of establishing an organized market to channel savings into productive investments. Formal operations began that same year under the supervision of the National Securities Commission (now SMV).
In its early years, the BVP focused on trading corporate bonds and commercial paper issued by banks and private companies. These instruments offered attractive alternatives for institutional investors and promoted greater formality and transparency in corporate financing.
Legal framework and market trust
The regulatory framework was solidified with the 1999 Securities Market Law, which enhanced supervision, broadened issuer participation, and regulated broker-dealer activities. The creation of Latin Clear—the Central Securities Depository—was key to improving operational security and efficiency.
1990: BVP founded and operations begin
1997: Latin Clear is established
1999: Securities Market Law enacted
2000s: Expansion of the private debt market
2010s: New sectors enter the market
These developments laid the foundation for sustainable growth, bolstering participant confidence and increasing depth in Panama’s capital market.
Last Update
31.3.25
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THE HISTORY OF THE PANAMA STOCK EXCHANGE
The Bolsa de Valores de Panamá (BVP) has been a cornerstone in strengthening Panama’s financial system and positioning the country as a regional business hub. From its early operations to its digital transformation and product expansion, the BVP reflects Panama’s economic modernization. This article explores its history, key milestones, and forward-looking vision.