Livingstone Morrison has been in the job for a few weeks, and the Jamaica Stock Exchange’s new chief has a clear plan for the stock exchange’s path forward. 

Speaking on Taking Stock with Kalilah Reynolds Morrison says his early focus is on stability, trust, and growth. 

He plans to build on the work of his predecessor, Dr Marlene Street Forrest, who led the JSE for decades. 

“It has been a focused attention on conveying a message of continuity first and foremost and building resilience as we go forward,” Morrison said.

The CEO said that one of his top priorities is to make the market stronger by carrying out projects that have been long discussed but not yet finished. These include starting the trading of government securities and introducing short selling. Both steps, he said, will give investors more tools to build wealth and help the JSE compete with other regional markets.

He is also preparing to launch a new “micro exchange” by 2026, which will allow small and medium businesses to raise money through the stock market. 

Morrison stressed that this is especially important because most Jamaican companies fall into this category. 

“If we exclude those companies from access to capital, then we are undermining our economic growth opportunities,” he explained.

Another challenge Morrison is tackling is restoring investor confidence. The JSE has seen a decline since the SSL fraud scandal shook trust in the system. Morrison said he believes the best way to rebuild confidence is by keeping the rules strong, ensuring companies file on time, and using education to help investors make smart choices. 

He said the JSE will also explore new technology to speed up reporting and compliance.

A veteran in the business and finance world, Morrison brings more than 30 years of experience from the Bank of Jamaica, where he helped modernise financial systems. He also served on the JSE board for nearly two decades before becoming CEO. Now, he hopes to use that experience to steady the exchange through this period of change.

Looking ahead, Morrison says he wants more young Jamaicans to see the stock market as a way to build their future. He believes the JSE can play a big role in helping entrepreneurs and new investors create wealth and secure their legacies.