The South Pacific Stock Exchange (SPX) participated in the global Ring the Bell for Gender Equality initiative, coinciding with International Women’s Day 2026. This year’s theme focuses on “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL women and girls,” as outlined by UN Women. The event, hosted at the Reserve Bank of Fiji, gathered a diverse group that included regulators, listed companies, board members, and stakeholders in the capital markets to discuss the significant role the private sector can play in promoting gender equality and enhancing leadership diversity.
During the event, SPX director Lorraine Seeto articulated that achieving gender equality in capital markets is a complex issue intertwined with governance, risk management, and corporate structure. She urged listed companies and their stakeholders across Fiji to move beyond mere numerical representation and actively cultivate pathways that facilitate the progression of women into senior management and board positions.
RBF Governor Ariff Ali highlighted the global trend showing that economies thrive when women participate fully in the workforce. He stressed the vast potential for economic growth by fostering an environment where women can engage as entrepreneurs, professionals, innovators, and leaders.
The event concluded with remarks from Women Entrepreneurs Business Council chair Jyoti Maharaj, who expressed gratitude towards the Government and private sector for creating opportunities not only for women but also for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Drawing from her nearly four decades in banking before transitioning into entrepreneurship, Maharaj shared her insights on the challenges women-led enterprises encounter and emphasized that while women possess ambition and capability, what is often missing are supportive systems that adapt to their evolving lives, careers, and responsibilities.
This initiative shines a spotlight on the importance of fostering gender equality in the workplace, which not only benefits women but also contributes to the overall growth and sustainability of the economy. By breaking down barriers and creating supportive environments, we can unlock the full potential of women’s contributions to society and the economy.