by 
Timur Turlov, born in 1987, has emerged as a transformative force in the world of finance. As the founder and CEO of Freedom Holding Corp., he has expanded his company from regional roots to an international player. Turlov’s unique approach fuses financial innovation with a commitment to social progress, making Freedom Holding Corp. a leader not just in finance but also in community engagement.
Early Start in Trading and Economics
At only 16, Turlov entered the finance world as a trader with World Capital Investments (WCI). His early exposure to trading ignited a passion for economics, driving him to pursue an academic background in the field. After earning his degree, Turlov joined Uniastrum Bank, where he played a pivotal role in creating infrastructure for American stock trading—an experience that would prove crucial for his future ambitions.
Founding Freedom Finance: A New Pathway to U.S. Markets
In 2008, Turlov launched Freedom Finance to provide clients in his region with access to U.S. stock markets. By 2012, he expanded Freedom Finance to Kazakhstan, quickly establishing it as a leading brokerage firm and a gateway to global financial markets. This expansion laid the foundation for his vision of a comprehensive financial services provider accessible to all.
A Landmark Nasdaq Listing: Taking Freedom Holding Public
In 2019, Turlov achieved a significant milestone by taking Freedom Holding Corp. public on Nasdaq, marking it as the first financial organization from the CIS to be listed on the exchange. The company’s stock debuted under $15 and surged to $90 by 2024, reflecting the market’s confidence in Turlov’s strategic leadership and vision for growth.
Building a Multi-Service Financial Ecosystem
Under Turlov’s guidance, Freedom Holding Corp. has expanded into a vast ecosystem that spans 22 countries and boasts a market capitalization over $5 billion. The corporation’s offerings include Freedom Bank Kazakhstan, Freedom Finance Global for brokerage services, the Tradernet platform for trading, and Freedom Pay for digital transactions. Additionally, Freedom Life and Freedom Insurance offer diverse insurance solutions, Freedom Telecom provides telecommunications, and Arbuz.kz and Aviata address lifestyle needs, demonstrating Turlov’s goal of creating an integrated ecosystem serving multiple facets of life.
Expanding into the U.S. and Europe
Driven by an ambition to build a global brand, Turlov strategically entered the U.S. market in 2020 by acquiring Prime Executions Inc., establishing Freedom Capital Markets as the company’s investment banking arm. In 2023, Freedom Holding further expanded in the U.S. by acquiring LD Micro, a key player in micro-cap investing. In Europe, Freedom Finance now operates in 12 countries, serving more than 250,000 clients and solidifying the company’s position as a global financial institution.
Commitment to Social Impact and Cultural Projects
Beyond his financial success, Turlov is committed to social and cultural initiatives. In 2023, he became president of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, integrating chess into the school curriculum to foster critical thinking skills. He also founded the QJ League, a youth football league, and launched Qalam, a cultural project aimed at preserving and promoting Kazakh and Central Asian heritage. Freedom Holding Corp. also contributes to environmental sustainability, supporting initiatives to revive the Aral Sea and emphasizing Turlov’s dedication to social responsibility.
Family and Life in Almaty
Turlov resides in Almaty with his wife and six children, balancing his family life with his responsibilities as a business leader and community supporter. His journey reflects a blend of entrepreneurial spirit, strategic vision, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society. Through Freedom Holding Corp., Turlov has crafted a legacy that bridges financial success with social and cultural development, making him a respected figure on both the financial and social stages.
