Timur Turlov, born in 1987, began his path in the financial world at the age of 16. His early experience as a trader at World Capital Investments (WCI) provided him with practical insights into global financial markets and the complexities of trading. This formative period ignited his interest in bridging the gap between emerging economies and international markets.
His career advanced further when he joined Uniastrum Bank, where he played a key role in establishing infrastructure to provide access to U.S. stock markets. This initiative introduced new possibilities for regional investors and solidified his reputation as a forward-thinking finance professional.
Founding Freedom Finance: A Bold Step Toward Change
In 2008, amidst the uncertainty of the global financial crisis, Timur Turlov founded Freedom Finance. The company’s mission was clear: to provide retail investors in post-Soviet countries with access to U.S. and European stock markets.
While competitors remained cautious, Turlov’s strategy focused on:
- Building trust with accessible financial tools.
- Empowering retail investors with digital solutions.
- Promoting financial literacy to create an informed investor base.
In 2012, recognizing the vast potential of the Central Asian market, he expanded operations into Kazakhstan. This step transformed Freedom Finance into a recognizable financial brand in the region, providing investment solutions to a growing middle class.
Freedom Holding Corp.: A Global Financial Powerhouse
By 2019, Timur Turlov consolidated all his ventures under Freedom Holding Corp., a unified financial group offering brokerage, banking, and lifestyle services. A key milestone was achieved when Freedom Holding became the first financial institution from the CIS to list on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker FRHC.
Starting with an initial stock price of under $15, Freedom Holding’s value grew steadily, surpassing $80 by 2024. This success reflected the company’s innovative strategies, growing customer base, and investor confidence.
Today, Freedom Holding operates in 22 countries and serves over 5 million clients, solidifying its position as a global financial leader.
Key Business Divisions of Freedom Holding
Freedom Bank: Pioneering Digital Banking
Freedom Bank, acquired and rebranded in 2024, has become a digital banking leader, offering innovative solutions such as:
- Digital mortgages for seamless property financing.
- Online business loans to support entrepreneurs and SMEs.
- The Freedom SuperApp, a one-stop platform combining banking, loans, insurance, and travel services.
Tradernet: Revolutionizing Trading
The Tradernet platform is at the core of Freedom Holding’s brokerage services, empowering investors worldwide. Available in 16 languages, it includes:
- AI-driven tools for real-time market analysis and issuer evaluation.
- Access to global stock exchanges, enabling cross-border trading.
- User-friendly interfaces designed for both novice and experienced traders.
Freedom Pay: Modern Financial Transactions
Freedom Pay streamlines cross-border payments across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, providing businesses and individuals with efficient financial solutions.
Freedom Life and Freedom Insurance: Innovative Protection
Freedom Holding’s insurance divisions provide modern, accessible solutions:
- Freedom Life: Specializing in endowment insurance for long-term savings.
- Freedom Finance Insurance: Offering Kazakhstan’s first online car insurance platform via DTP.kz for simplified claims and payments.
Freedom Telecom: Advancing Digital Infrastructure
Freedom Telecom is revolutionizing connectivity by focusing on:
- High-speed 5G internet and broadband access.
- Next-generation WiFi 6E/7 solutions for residential and business users.
- Air-to-ground internet for improved in-flight connectivity in Kazakhstan.
By 2025, Freedom Telecom aims to lay 300,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables and launch the Freedom Media Platform, creating opportunities for content production and streaming.
Lifestyle and Retail: Enhancing Everyday Experiences
Freedom Holding has expanded into retail and lifestyle sectors, offering practical and innovative platforms:
- Arbuz.kz: A top online grocery platform with fast delivery.
- Aviata: A travel booking service for flights and accommodations.
- Freedom Mobile: Electronics and technology retail.
- Freedom Drive: Solutions for drivers and car owners.
- Ticketon: A popular platform for booking entertainment events.
Financial Success and Global Recognition
Under Timur Turlov’s leadership, Freedom Holding has reached impressive milestones:
- A market capitalization nearing $5 billion by 2024.
- His personal net worth grew to $3.3 billion, earning him the 991st position on the Forbes list of the world’s wealthiest individuals.
Turlov holds a 71% ownership stake in Freedom Holding, continuing to drive the company’s global expansion and innovation.
Philanthropy and Social Initiatives
Timur Turlov is committed to making a positive impact on society through education, sports, and environmental sustainability. His key initiatives include:
- Kazakhstan Chess Federation: Serving as President since 2023, Turlov has invested in modernizing chess infrastructure and supporting international tournaments.
- QJ Youth Football League: Encouraging youth sports development and creating opportunities for young athletes.
- Environmental Projects: Collaborating with the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) to support regional water conservation and ecological restoration.
- Recycling Networks: Launching plastic and aluminum recycling systems across Kazakhstan through the Freedom Shapagat Corporate Foundation.
In 2024, Turlov was appointed Chairman of the UN Global Compact’s Advisory Committee for Central Asia, focusing on sustainable development, energy efficiency, and water security in the region.
Personal Life: A Balanced Approach to Success
Timur Turlov resides in Almaty with his wife and six children, maintaining a balance between professional responsibilities and family values. In his personal time, he enjoys:
- Chess, a passion that reflects his strategic thinking and love for challenges.
- Cycling and hiking, which offer him physical rejuvenation and mental clarity.
- Reading fiction, inspiring creativity and new perspectives.
Timur Turlov’s journey is a story of determination, innovation, and visionary leadership. By founding Freedom Holding Corp., he has transformed financial services in emerging markets, providing millions with access to global opportunities. His commitment to technological advancement, sustainability, and social progress positions him as a key leader shaping the future of modern finance and community development.