Kyivstar CEO Highlights How a Peace Deal Could Significantly Boost Company Value After Historic US Listing: What Investors Need to Know
NEW YORK – Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Ukrainian mobile operator Kyivstar, stated on Friday that a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict would significantly increase the value of Kyivstar ahead of the company’s stock market debut in New York.
Kyivstar’s shares are set to begin trading on the Nasdaq later that day, marking the first time a Ukraine-based company will be listed on a US stock exchange.
The listing coincides with a high-profile summit in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, a meeting closely monitored by Ukraine and European countries as a potential turning point for peace negotiations.
Komarov emphasized, “We will be the best asset for the international investment community to invest in Ukraine, to invest in the Ukrainian recovery, to invest in the Ukrainian support.”
The company chose to list on Nasdaq—where its parent company VEON is also listed—rather than in London or Warsaw, prioritizing the strengthening of ties between the United States and Ukraine over those with Europe.
Kyivstar has reinforced its US connections amid the ongoing conflict by appointing former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to its board and signing a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide satellite services.
As Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, Kyivstar serves 24 million subscribers. Founded in 1994, it joined VEON’s portfolio in 2010. Beyond telecommunications, Kyivstar owns the digital health platform Helsi and the ride-hailing service Uklon.
VEON presents the Nasdaq listing as an opportunity for international investors to support Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. However, the company’s success is partly contingent on achieving a peace agreement.
Komarov acknowledged that trading will be highly volatile in the coming weeks. When asked about the impact of political developments on the initial public offering (IPO), he said that Kyivstar’s valuation already reflects the uncertain external environment.
Valued pro forma at $2.3 billion, Kyivstar pursued the listing by merging with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) led by fintech entrepreneur Betsy Cohen. The process raised $178 million, slightly below earlier reports anticipating up to $200 million. VEON will maintain a majority stake in Kyivstar.
Komarov highlighted that Kyivstar’s Nasdaq debut demonstrates the potential of Ukrainian firms to succeed in international markets. He also noted that leading Ukrainian business figures have recently consulted him regarding the company’s listing strategy. — Reuters
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Kyivstar’s Nasdaq listing amid ongoing geopolitical tensions signals a strategic shift toward strengthening US-Ukraine economic ties, offering a blueprint for companies in conflict zones to attract global investment. For Oman, this highlights both the opportunity and risk inherent in markets tied closely to political stability—smart investors should prioritize ventures that integrate international partnerships and innovative tech while cautiously monitoring geopolitical developments. Businesses in Oman can learn from Kyivstar’s approach to diversification and resilience, especially through leveraging digital services and strategic international collaborations.
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