Global investors see compelling case for GCC investment
Global investors are increasingly drawn to the Middle East, viewing the region's reforms and robust capital markets as an attractive investment opportunity, says Nabeel Albloushi, HSBC's regional head of markets & securities services for the Middle East North Africa & Türkiye (Menat) region. Speaking at HSBC's Menat Future Forum in Dubai, Albloushi highlighted the region's phenomenal pace of reforms and compelling growth story, backed by strong demographics and healthy public finances.
The forum, which convened international investors, regulators, exchanges, and market participants, showcased the region's momentum in attracting billions of dollars in fund inflows. These inflows have been spurred by reforms aimed at liberalizing access for international investors, introducing new hedging instruments, and enhancing institutional investor participation. Consequently, key regional equity markets have been included in benchmark indices tracked by major mutual and pension funds, facilitating further inflows of long-term capital.
Dr. Maryam Buti Al Suwaidi, CEO of the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority, emphasized the UAE's readiness to expand its asset management sector, citing a conducive policy environment and a skilled talent pool. Efforts are underway to streamline licensing processes, enabling smoother establishment and growth of the sector in the UAE.
Throughout the forum, several key themes emerged, including heightened attention to global geopolitics, advancements in regulatory and investment ecosystems, sustainability-focused issuances, and the necessity of developing common sustainability standards. Additionally, discussions centered on effective regulation of distributed ledger technology, particularly its growing role in finance.
Overall, the forum underscored the region's attractiveness to global investors, driven by its dynamic reforms, robust capital markets, and supportive policy environment. As the Middle East continues to position itself as a prime investment destination, stakeholders are poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities and foster sustainable growth in the region's financial landscape.
By: Sahiba Suri
Comments