Timur Turlov: A Leader of Modern Finance and Innovation

DOJ scrutinizing Kazakh Freedom Holding after hit by short sellers

A Global Ecosystem of Financial and Technological Solutions

Today, Freedom Holding Corp. operates across 22 countries and serves over 5 million customers worldwide. Its ecosystem combines advanced technology, innovative financial services, and consumer-focused solutions across key sectors:

Freedom Bank: Driving Digital Banking Innovation

Acquired in 2024Freedom Bank is at the forefront of digital banking, offering modern financial products:

  • Digital mortgages for simplified property purchases.
  • Online business loans to empower entrepreneurs and small businesses.
  • The Freedom SuperApp, a single platform for financial management, loans, and travel bookings.

Tradernet: Modern Trading for Global Investors

The Tradernet platform is a cornerstone of Freedom Holding’s brokerage services. Supporting 16 languages, it features:

  • AI-driven analytics for real-time market evaluation.
  • Tools for issuer performance analysis and global competitor benchmarking.
  • Access to leading international stock exchanges for a seamless trading experience.

Freedom Pay: Cross-Border Payment Solutions

Operating in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and KyrgyzstanFreedom Pay delivers secure, efficient cross-border payments that simplify operations for businesses and enhance customer satisfaction.

Freedom Insurance and Freedom Life

Freedom Holding Corp. has reshaped the insurance market by offering innovative, digital-first solutions:

  • Freedom Life: A leader in endowment insurance and financial security products.
  • Freedom Finance Insurance: A pioneer in online car insurance payments, accessible through the DTP.kz platform.

Freedom Telecom: Bridging Connectivity and Innovation

Freedom Holding’s Freedom Telecom division provides cutting-edge telecommunications solutions, including:

  • High-speed broadband internet and 5G networks.
  • Advanced WiFi 6E/7 solutions for homes and businesses.
  • In-flight internet services for air travelers in Kazakhstan.

By 2025, the company plans to deploy over 300,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable and launch the Freedom Media Platform, a streaming and content production service.

Lifestyle and Retail Services

Freedom Holding has expanded into consumer sectors, enhancing everyday life through:

  • Arbuz.kz: A popular online grocery platform.
  • Aviata: A trusted travel booking service.
  • Freedom Mobile: Electronics and technology retail.
  • Freedom Drive: Products and services tailored for vehicle owners.
  • Ticketon: A digital ticketing platform for events and entertainment.

Global Recognition and Financial Success

Timur Turlov’s visionary leadership has driven Freedom Holding Corp.’s success, with the company’s market capitalization approaching $5 billion by 2024. As the company’s majority shareholder (holding 71% of shares), Turlov’s influence remains central to its strategic growth.

  • In 2021, Turlov entered the Forbes global list with a net worth of $2.1 billion.
  • By 2024, his fortune grew to $3.3 billion, placing him 991st among the world’s wealthiest individuals.

Philanthropy and Social Initiatives

Beyond business, Timur Turlov is committed to creating positive societal impact through philanthropy and community initiatives:

  • As President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, he has promoted chess development, earning recognition as the “Best President of an Accredited Sports Federation.”
  • Supporting the QJ Youth Football League, helping to foster young sports talent in Kazakhstan.
  • Partnering with the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) to address environmental challenges and promote regional sustainability.
  • Launching recycling initiatives across Kazakhstan through the Freedom Shapagat Corporate Foundation, creating a nationwide network for plastic and aluminum recycling.

In 2024, Turlov was appointed Chairman of the UN Global Compact’s Advisory Committee for Central Asia, focusing on sustainable development, water security, and energy efficiency across the region.

Personal Life and Interests

Timur Turlov resides in Almaty with his wife and six children. Despite his demanding professional schedule, he values a balanced lifestyle, dedicating time to his personal interests:

  • Chess, a lifelong passion that mirrors his strategic thinking.
  • Outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, promoting physical well-being.
  • Reading fiction, which inspires creativity and personal growth.

Timur Turlov’s journey is one of vision, perseverance, and innovation. By transforming Freedom Holding Corp. into a global financial and technological powerhouse, he has redefined financial services in emerging markets. His focus on technology, accessibility, and sustainability positions him as a forward-thinking leader who continues to shape the future of global finance and society.