Which South African exchange was established in 1887 during the Witwatersrand gold rush?

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange was established in 1887 during the Witwatersrand gold rush.

The discovery and rapid development of gold on the Witwatersrand created strong demand for capital, mining finance, and a formal venue for trading company shares. The exchange was founded in Johannesburg in November 1887, linking the city’s growth to the expansion of South Africa’s mining economy.

It became South Africa’s principal securities market and later broadened well beyond gold companies. Listed businesses now span mining, financial services, telecommunications, retail, industrial companies, and property. The exchange operates from Johannesburg and is commonly abbreviated JSE.

The JSE should not be confused with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange equities market and the broader financial infrastructure supporting trading, clearing, and settlement. Nor should it be confused with the Cape Town Stock Exchange, a newer South African venue aimed particularly at smaller and growth-oriented companies.