Freedom Holding Corp.: Integrating ESG Principles into Global Finance

Financial markets continue to evolve at a rapid pace, and as investors seek opportunities, they are paying close attention to the core principles by which companies operate. Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it is a fundamental requirement. Freedom Holding Corp., a Nasdaq-listed, US-based financial services company, is basing its global expansion on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Its founder and CEO, Timur Turlov, is committed to leveraging the company’s resources and influence to advance sustainability principles, ensuring that financial gain and responsibility are seamlessly integrated.

Founded in 2008 by Timur Turlov, Freedom Holding has evolved from a regional brokerage firm into a global financial group with a presence in 22 countries. It has facilitated access to international financial markets, particularly for investors in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. However, what truly sets Freedom Holding apart is its ambitious ESG agenda, which prioritizes transparency, climate-conscious investing, social responsibility, and strong support for initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

“Companies that integrate ESG principles into their strategies are not just contributing to a better world; they are also securing long-term financial resilience,” Timur Turlov says.

Freedom Holding Corp. has demonstrated a strong commitment to ESG principles through various initiatives, particularly in its core region of operation, Kazakhstan. As a result, over 120 social, charity, or sponsorship projects worth more than KZT 63.3 billion ($123.3 million) are being implemented between 2023 and 2025.

Since 2023, Freedom Holding has been actively involved in multilateral efforts to restore the Aral Sea ecosystem, partnering with local community representatives, as well as various national and international agencies and donors.

The company’s philanthropic endeavors extend to disaster relief, including flood damage restoration in the West Kazakhstan region, with a focus on infrastructure repair and the implementation of protective measures. Moreover, the company places significant emphasis on social and infrastructure initiatives, such as funding a botanical garden and sports complex in Uralsk, as well as renovating the Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theater named after Abai in Almaty. These projects play a key role in improving regional infrastructure and preserving cultural landmarks, ultimately enhancing the quality of life and creating new opportunities for cultural and social development.

Freedom Holding has also maintained its strong support for national education and sports in the region. In March 2024, the company initiated the construction of a new educational block at Suleyman Demirel University (SDU) in Almaty, investing KZT 1.8 billion ($3.7 million). The new campus will include an interactive financial literacy center designed to teach investing and trading principles. Additionally, the company has supported the Teach for Qazaqstan program, which focuses on equipping teachers with modern skills and innovative teaching methods to improve education quality.

Furthermore, the company has allocated KZT 1.1 billion ($2.26 million) to develop football through the QJ League, supporting youth sports and promoting a healthy lifestyle. It also funds an inclusive football initiative for children with disabilities in collaboration with the Bolashak UniFootball League. Freedom Holding Corp maintains a strong partnership with the Kazakhstan Chess Federation to promote the development of chess and support intellectual sports in the region.

The integration of sustainability into operations is highly important in the financial industry

Bloomberg Intelligence projects that by 2030, total global assets under management (AUM) in ESG investments will have nearly doubled from 2022 levels, reaching $40 trillion. Because of their better long-term financial performance, enhanced regulatory compliance, and reduced operational risks, investors are increasingly choosing businesses with high ESG ratings. Companies with strong ESG scores also have reduced capital costs and higher cumulative returns, according to research from MSCI (Morgan Stanley Capital International).

Freedom Holding recognizes that higher investor confidence, better stock performance, and cheaper capital costs are all correlated with greater ESG maturity.

Therefore, the company is introducing sustainability practices across its business operations, including the implementation of the so-called ‘precautionary principle’ and the thorough collection and monitoring of its environmental data. The company seeks to further strengthen its approach to environmental impact management by issuing dedicated policies and carrying out climate risk assessments.

Beyond environmental concerns, Freedom Holding places a strong emphasis on social responsibility. To foster a positive work environment, the company has designed and introduced a procedure to facilitate the identification and assessment of human rights risks and impacts across its operations. This procedure aligns with international guidelines and global best practices. By implementing this measure, the company aims to enhance the work environment for its employees.

Freedom Holding Corp. undertakes various well-being and training initiatives to support employees’ professional and personal development. These efforts are essential prerequisites for the company’s ambition to help its talent thrive.

The new generation of investors prioritizes sustainability and prefers businesses that balance profitability with purpose, making the commitment to ESG not just a corporate responsibility but a key competitive advantage. Companies with strong ESG foundations are better equipped to navigate market volatility, regulatory changes, and evolving investor expectations.

“Financial success and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. At Freedom Holding we believe that embracing ESG is essential for building a future where businesses, people, and the planet thrive together,” Turlov says.

He believes that the future of finance is not just about profits — it’s about progress.