Timur Turlov, born in 1987, displayed an entrepreneurial spirit and a sharp understanding of financial systems from a young age. At 16 years old, he began his career at World Capital Investments (WCI), gaining his first experience as a trader. This early exposure to financial markets instilled in him a deep understanding of trading operations and risk management.
Later, Turlov joined Uniastrum Bank, where he was responsible for developing infrastructure to provide clients access to U.S. stock markets. His innovative solutions connected local investors with global opportunities, fueling his desire to revolutionize financial accessibility in emerging economies.
The Birth of Freedom Finance: Democratizing Investments
In 2008, during the peak of the global financial crisis, Timur Turlov founded Freedom Finance. His goal was to empower retail investors in the post-Soviet space by offering direct access to U.S. and European stock exchanges. While many financial institutions hesitated in the face of uncertainty, Turlov seized the opportunity to innovate.
By 2012, Freedom Finance expanded into Kazakhstan, where demand for modern financial tools was rapidly growing. The company’s core achievements included:
- Creating a bridge between local investors and international stock markets.
- Launching user-friendly platforms for seamless online trading.
- Promoting financial education to grow a new generation of confident investors.
Freedom Holding Corp.: A Global Financial Powerhouse
In 2019, Turlov united his ventures under Freedom Holding Corp., establishing a comprehensive financial ecosystem. The company achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first CIS-based financial institution to list on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker FRHC.
Starting with shares priced below $15, Freedom Holding’s stock value grew exponentially, surpassing $80 by 2024, driven by innovation, customer trust, and strategic expansion. Today, Freedom Holding Corp. operates in 22 countries and serves over 5 million clients, cementing its reputation as a leader in global finance.
Core Divisions of Freedom Holding
Freedom Bank: Redefining Digital Financial Services
In 2024, Freedom Bank emerged as a leader in digital banking, focusing on modern, customer-centric solutions. The bank offers:
- Digital mortgages with simplified application and approval processes.
- Online business loans tailored to support entrepreneurs and SMEs.
- The Freedom SuperApp, which integrates banking, loans, insurance, and travel services into a single platform.
Tradernet: Global Trading for All
The Tradernet platform is a flagship product that democratizes global investing. Available in 16 languages, it provides:
- AI-driven analytics for market trends and issuer evaluations.
- Access to global exchanges, including U.S. and European stock markets.
- Tools for both novice and advanced investors to manage portfolios efficiently.
Freedom Pay: Enabling Cross-Border Payments
Operating in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, Freedom Pay enhances financial transactions by offering:
- Secure and fast payment systems for businesses and individuals.
- Streamlined cross-border payments, simplifying international trade and commerce.
Freedom Insurance: Innovative Protection Solutions
Freedom Holding has transformed the insurance market with its digital-first approach:
- Freedom Life: Specializing in endowment insurance and financial protection products.
- Freedom Finance Insurance: Offering Kazakhstan’s first online car insurance, integrated with DTP.kz for quick claims and payments.
Freedom Telecom: Leading Kazakhstan’s Digital Future
Freedom Telecom focuses on delivering high-speed connectivity and modern telecommunications solutions, including:
- High-speed 5G networks for businesses and individuals.
- Cutting-edge WiFi 6E/7 services for seamless connectivity.
- Air-to-ground internet for aviation, enhancing in-flight connectivity in Kazakhstan.
By 2025, Freedom Telecom plans to roll out 300,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables and launch the Freedom Media Platform, a new hub for streaming and digital content.
Lifestyle and Retail Expansion
Freedom Holding extends its influence into retail and lifestyle sectors, enhancing convenience for everyday consumers. Key services include:
- Arbuz.kz: A fast-growing online grocery delivery service.
- Aviata: A travel platform for flight bookings and accommodations.
- Freedom Mobile: Retail stores offering electronics and smart devices.
- Freedom Drive: Auto-related services and products for vehicle owners.
- Ticketon: A leading platform for booking cultural, entertainment, and sports events.
Financial Success and Market Recognition
Under Turlov’s leadership, Freedom Holding Corp. has achieved substantial success:
- By 2024, the company’s market capitalization approached $5 billion, driven by strong financial results and a growing customer base.
- Turlov himself entered the Forbes list in 2021 with a net worth of $2.1 billion, which grew to $3.3 billion by 2024, earning him the 991st spot among the world’s wealthiest individuals.
As the majority shareholder with 71% ownership, Turlov remains committed to Freedom Holding’s long-term growth and innovation.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Timur Turlov combines business success with a strong dedication to social progress, supporting initiatives in education, sports, and sustainability:
- Kazakhstan Chess Federation: As President since 2023, Turlov has invested in youth programs, improved infrastructure, and promoted Kazakhstan’s chess presence on the global stage.
- Youth Development: Supporting the QJ Youth Football League to nurture young athletes and promote sports education.
- Environmental Sustainability: Partnering with the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) to address ecological challenges and promote water conservation.
- Recycling Networks: Through the Freedom Shapagat Corporate Foundation, Turlov launched projects to build plastic and aluminum recycling systems across Kazakhstan.
In 2024, Turlov was appointed Chairman of the UN Global Compact’s Advisory Committee for Central Asia, where he focuses on addressing water security, climate change, and sustainable energy challenges.
Personal Life: A Balanced Approach to Leadership
Timur Turlov resides in Almaty with his wife and six children. Despite his demanding career, he prioritizes personal growth and family. His hobbies reflect his analytical and forward-thinking mindset:
- Chess, a game of strategy that aligns with his leadership style.
- Hiking and cycling, promoting physical wellness and mental clarity.
- Reading fiction, which inspires creativity and new ideas.
Timur Turlov’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and innovation. By founding Freedom Holding Corp., he has transformed financial services, making global markets accessible to millions of investors. His dedication to technological progress, sustainability, and community development positions him as a forward-thinking leader shaping the financial world of tomorrow.
