THE ROLE OF INVESTOR RELATIONS IN ENHANCING CORPORATE INVESTMENT ATTRACTIVENESS: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF UZBEK COMPANIES

Investor Relations (IR) has become an essential strategic function that strengthens corporate transparency, reduces information asymmetry, and improves communication between companies and investors. As financial markets continue to develop in emerging economies, effective Investor Relations practices increasingly influence investors' confidence and companies' ability to attract long-term capital. This study investigates the role of Investor Relations in enhancing corporate investment attractiveness using evidence from selected Uzbek companies. The research employs qualitative analysis supported by corporate governance reports, annual reports, IFRS-based financial disclosures, and international Investor Relations frameworks developed by the OECD, IFC, and the National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI). A structured Investor Relations Evaluation Framework is proposed to assess the quality of disclosure, governance, digital communication, sustainability reporting, and investor engagement. The findings indicate that companies demonstrating higher levels of transparency and more effective Investor Relations practices achieve greater investment attractiveness, stronger investor confidence, and improved corporate reputation. The study contributes to the growing literature on Investor Relations in emerging markets and offers practical recommendations for improving corporate communication and attracting both domestic and foreign investment in Uzbekistan.