TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Director of Corporate Assessment at the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), I Gede Nyoman Yetna, declined to comment on President Prabowo Subianto's recent statement that likened the risks of stock trading for small investors to gambling practices. Nyoman instead emphasized the IDX's focus on educating the public about the capital market.

“I will not comment on that matter. What I want to convey is that the stock exchange will continue to educate people,” Nyoman told reporters at the IDX Building in Jakarta on Thursday, December 5, 2024.

Nyoman further emphasized that the IDX has implemented a comprehensive capital market education program designed to equip investors with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the market responsibly. “I want to discuss investors only, especially retail investors,” Nyoman clarified when pressed by reporters.

In a previous address, President Prabowo cautioned the public about the risks associated with stock trading, particularly for small-scale investors. He drew a comparison between stock trading and gambling, highlighting the potential for significant losses.

“Let me tell you: if you are engaging in stock trading as a small player, you’ll surely lose, it is akin to gambling. It is the large player who wins in such endeavors,” the President stated during the 112th Anniversary of Muhammadiyah in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara.

These remarks were reportedly prompted by criticisms from stock traders during the 2024 Presidential Election campaign. These traders had attributed a decline in stock prices to the government's Free Nutritious Meals program.

“I do not own any stocks, nor do the majority of people in rural areas. If stock prices decline, it primarily affects those involved in stock trading,” the President remarked.

Furthermore, Prabowo expressed concerns regarding the inherent inequities within the capital market ecosystem, asserting that large players possess significant advantages in terms of capital resources and access to information.

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