A Glimpse into the Life of Timur Turlov: Entrepreneur, Visionary, and Philanthropist

OV Desk

Timur Turlov is a name synonymous with innovation and strategic foresight in the financial world. As the CEO and primary shareholder of Freedom Holding Corp., a multinational investment company listed on NASDAQ, Turlov has carved a niche for himself as a dynamic leader and an astute businessman. His journey is a testament to his relentless drive and his vision for a connected financial ecosystem.

Timur Turlov, born on November 13, 1987, raised in Kazakhstan, Turlov’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident from an early age. His foray into the world of finance began with a keen interest in stock markets and trading, eventually leading him to establish Freedom Holding Corp. Under his leadership, the company has grown exponentially, expanding its footprint across the globe and offering a wide range of financial services. The transformative power of vision and determination in the financial sector. As the founder and CEO of Freedom Holding Corp., Turlov has been a pivotal figure in providing access to U.S., Russian, and European stock exchanges for post-Soviet citizens. His journey began with an early interest in stock market investments during his school days, leading him to work as a trader right after high school. His career took a significant turn when he was hired by Yutreyd.ru to manage American stock market operations, where he built an infrastructure that provided access to U.S. stock exchanges. During the 2008 global financial crisis, Turlov’s unit was closed due to the sale of Uniastrum Bank to the Bank of Cyprus. However, this setback became the catalyst for his entrepreneurial leap; he founded Freedom Finance in 2008, which later evolved into Freedom Holding Corp. Under his leadership, the company expanded into thirteen countries and was recognized as the most fast-growing broker in Russia in 2018. In 2011, Turlov moved to Kazakhstan, where he continued to expand his business, making Freedom Finance JSC the most active trading participant at the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange.

Turlov’s strategic vision culminated in Freedom Holding’s listing on the Nasdaq in 2019, marking it as the first financial institution from the Commonwealth of Independent States to achieve this milestone. His commitment to digitalization and financial innovation has positioned his company at the forefront of the fintech industry in Kazakhstan. Despite the challenges, including the decision to withdraw from the Russian market in 2022, Turlov’s resilience and adaptability have ensured the continued growth and success of his ventures. Beyond his professional achievements, Turlov’s personal life reflects his dedication to his work and family. Married with five children, he balances the demands of leading a major financial institution with his responsibilities at home. His educational background, with a Bachelor of Science from Moscow State Technical University, laid the foundation for his business acumen and success.

Turlov’s approach to business is rooted in transparency, innovation, and social responsibility. He believes in leveraging technology to create accessible financial solutions for everyone, a philosophy that has guided Freedom Holding Corp. to new heights. His dedication to fostering financial literacy and inclusion is evident in the numerous initiatives spearheaded by the company. Beyond his professional achievements, Turlov is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He is actively involved in various social development projects, focusing on education and community welfare. His commitment to giving back to society underscores his belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity.

Freedom Finance

Timur Turlov began his career as a trader and quickly moved up the ranks, demonstrating a keen understanding of the American stock market operations.
In 2008, amidst the global financial crisis, Turlov founded Freedom Finance, which would grow to provide brokerage services across thirteen countries.

  • Under his leadership, Freedom Finance has been recognized for its rapid growth, earning the “Financial Elite of Russia” award in 2018.
  • Turlov’s strategic moves included the expansion of Freedom Finance into Central Asia and Europe, and eventually, making it public on the Nasdaq Stock Market in 2019.
  • His decision to list Freedom Holding Corp on Nasdaq marked a significant milestone, as it became the first financial institution from the Commonwealth of Independent States to achieve this feat.
  • As of 2024, Turlov’s net worth is estimated at $3.3 billion, placing him on Forbes’ Billionaires list.
  • Beyond his financial success, Turlov is known for his commitment to social development and innovation in Kazakhstan’s fintech landscape.
  • His approach to business and investment has not only shaped his company’s success but has also contributed to the broader financial industry’s evolution in the post-Soviet region.

Timur Turlov’s story is not just about business success; it is about the relentless pursuit of excellence and the desire to make a positive impact on the world. His journey continues to inspire many, proving that with vision and determination, one can achieve remarkable success and contribute meaningfully to society.