The Algerian Financial Market Commission (COSOB), in collaboration with the Algiers Stock Exchange and Algérie Clearing, has announced a landmark initiative to exempt startups from listing fees for a period of three years. Effective from February 1, 2026, until 2028, this exceptional measure is designed to alleviate the financial burden on high-growth companies seeking to raise capital through the public market. The initiative aligns with the Algerian government’s broader strategy to modernize the financial sector and provide innovative enterprises with diversified funding alternatives beyond traditional banking.
Strengthening The Growth Market Segment
This incentive is specifically tailored for entities holding the official “Startup” label that opt for financing through the “Growth” segment of the Algiers Stock Exchange. By targeting this specialized market tier, COSOB aims to simplify the transition for young companies moving from private ownership to public listing. The waiver is applicable to capital-raising operations that do not exceed DZD 500 million, ensuring that the benefits are concentrated on small and medium-sized innovative enterprises that require a liquidity boost to scale their operations.
Comprehensive Fee Exemptions Across The Financial Ecosystem
The new regulatory framework provides a full exemption from several critical costs that typically act as barriers to entry for startups. These include the visa fees for information documents required by COSOB, admission fees collected by the Algiers Stock Exchange, and the various custody and management fees charged by Algérie Clearing. By removing these administrative and financial hurdles, the authorities hope to enhance the attractiveness of the stock market as a viable funding engine, fostering a more integrated financial ecosystem for Algerian entrepreneurs.
Driving Innovation Through Capital Markets
The decision reflects a strategic commitment to institutionalizing startup finance in Algeria. Beyond providing immediate cost savings, the initiative encourages startups to adopt higher standards of transparency and corporate governance required for listing. As the MENA region sees an increase in tech-focused IPOs and public listings, Algeria’s proactive stance positions its local market as a competitive platform for homegrown talent to secure the investment necessary for regional expansion.
About COSOB
The Commission d’Organisation et de Surveillance des Opérations de Bourse (COSOB) is the independent regulatory body responsible for overseeing the Algerian securities market. Established to ensure investor protection and the orderly functioning of the financial markets, COSOB monitors public offerings, authorizes market intermediaries, and develops the legal framework for exchange operations. In recent years, it has played a pivotal role in creating specialized market segments, such as the “Growth” market, to support the specific needs of the burgeoning Algerian startup ecosystem.
Source: El Djazaïr El Djadida
