Bahrain to host Mideast asset management forum

27/04/2016 08:00 AST

The Middle East Asset Management Forum (MEAMF 2016) hosted by Bahrain next month aims to tackle the most pressing questions that will drive the ongoing progress of the asset management industry across the dynamic regional markets.

According to Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) executive director for financial institutions supervision Abdul Rahman Al Baker, the Middle East investment markets continue to dynamically evolve, with several headline initiatives creating the conditions for further advancement of the asset and wealth management sectors across the region.

Globally, the asset management industry is responding to a changing investment landscape as global economic headwinds caused by uncertainty in China and ongoing lower oil prices impact the strategies of the leading investment players.

Nevertheless, positive prospects continue to attract capital to the region in search of high-quality investment opportunities.

“Against this dynamic backdrop, the MEAMF 2016 is being launched with the strategic support of the CBB,” he added.

“The recent opening of several GCC and Arab markets and the inclusion of these markets in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging Markets Index, have not only reinforced this exciting trend but will also drive growth across the entire wealth and asset management ecosystem, including pensions and support services.”

He said the asset management industry is poised to enter an exciting stage in its evolution in the GCC region.

The shape of the wealth and asset management sectors in the GCC is unique and the last two decades have con?rmed the region’s position as an important ?nancial hub for wealth and asset management, as well as a key trading centre connecting East and West, the CBB official added.

Indeed, the ?nancial services industry has made significant contributions to the impressive economic growth rates across the GCC.

Bahrain is already the Gulf’s most established fund distribution centre and is an internationally recognised ?nancial hub, with the ?nancial services sector in Bahrain being not only the largest sector of the non-oil economy but also the largest employer.

“The forum will tap into these developments and how they are creating new opportunities in the region,” said Mr Al Baker.

Billed as an essential platform for asset and wealth management professionals to connect on the issues that are driving change in the industry, MEAMF 2016 is set to be attended by delegates from major investment centres across the world.

The event will take place on May 30 and 31 at the Gulf Hotel under the theme, The Road Ahead in the Mena Investment Industry. It is organised by Ethico Live! on behalf of the CBB.

Gulf Daily News