Best Hassan Jivraj Podcasts (2025)

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🎙️ EP. 75—What’s Next for GCC Bonds & Sukuk? 59:59

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8d ago59:59

59:59

In our 75th episode, we’re joined once again by Abdul Kadir Hussain, Head of Fixed Income Asset Management at Arqaam Capital, to unpack the transformation reshaping GCC bonds and sukuk. From Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030-driven borrowing and UAE corporate issuance, to Kuwait’s market comeback and the future of AAOIFI sukuk standards, we explore how th…

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🎙️ EP. 74 — Is Kuwait Falling Behind the Gulf? 55:28

15d ago55:28

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In this episode, we welcome back Issam Altawari to unpack Kuwait’s political and economic crossroads. We explore Kuwait’s unique political dynamics, the challenges of reform and the country’s efforts to diversify beyond oil. From parliamentary deadlock to infrastructure and tourism projects, citizenship issues, and the role of the sovereign wealth …

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🎙️ EP. 73 — How Saudi Arabia Is Betting on AI 41:53

22d ago41:53

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In this episode, Hassan Jivraj speaks with George Huang, CEO of SenseTime MEA and a key player in Saudi Arabia’s AI ecosystem. They discuss George’s journey into AI, the role of SenseTime in the Middle East, and how AI fits into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The conversation explores the opportunities and challenges facing the Kingdom, the importance…

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🎙️ EP. 72 —Trump Cards: EM Debt, Tariffs & the Dollar 51:10

1M ago51:10

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We’re joined once again by Beth Morrissey of Kleiman International Consultants to unpack Trump’s tariffs, dollar dominance, and the latest wave of EM debt restructurings. Why is EM unique, and what can history teach us about today’s turbulence? We also dive into her new book, Emerging Economies and Financial Markets-A Career-Tested Approach to Anal…

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🎙️ EP. 71 — What Nobody Tells You About Halal Investing 1:08:55

2M ago1:08:55

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Are your stocks really halal? In this episode, we sit down with Saad Malik, co-founder of Zoya, to unpack the realities of halal investing. From stock screening and Shariah standards to Islamic ETFs, fintech, and the future of the Islamic economy, this conversation explores the opportunities — and challenges — facing Muslim investors today. 🌐 Zoya:…

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🎙️ EP. 70 — Inside the Gulf’s Political Economy and Diversification 59:30

2M ago59:30

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In this episode, we sit down with Robert Mogielnicki, Senior Resident Scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington (AGSIW), to unpack the political and economic forces shaping the Gulf. We discuss the region’s economic diversification journey, the influence of political dynamics on decision-making, and the role of international capital, …

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🎙️ EP. 69 — After Reform: Can Uzbekistan Keep Momentum? 57:27

2M ago57:27

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In this episode, we reconnect with Odilbek Isakov, Managing Partner at Infrasia Capital and former Deputy Minister of Finance of Uzbekistan. Since launching market reforms in 2017, Uzbekistan has opened up to foreign investors, embraced privatisation and begun reshaping its banking and financial landscape. But can the momentum last? In this episode…

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Episode 68-What Sovereign Wealth Funds Are Really Doing in 2025? 42:41

3M ago42:41

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Sovereign Wealth Funds are quietly reshaping global finance, deploying trillions, navigating geopolitical tensions, and investing across everything from oil and AI to ESG and infrastructure. But what are they really doing in 2025? In this episode, Diego Lopez of Global SWF shares what’s happening behind the scenes, from the Gulf and Southeast Asia …

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Episode 67-The Islamic Economy: How to Build Global Muslim Brands 1:07:29

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In this episode, we interview Rafi-uddin Shikoh, CEO and founder of DinarStandard, about his journey in the Islamic economy sector. We discuss Rafi-uddin's background, the impact of 9/11 on his career, and the inception of DinarStandard. The conversation explores the current state of the Islamic economy, the challenges and opportunities within Isla…

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Episode 66-Trade War 2.0? BRICS on the Brink in 2H25 57:43

3M ago57:43

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In this episode, we speak with geo-economics analyst Rachel Ziemba about trade policy shifts, BRICS fractures, China’s trade outlook, de-dollarization, and what investors should watch in the second half of 2025. 🔗 More from Rachel Ziemba: Website → https://ziembainsights.com Summer reading → https://rziemba.substack.com/p/summer-reading-weaponized-…

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Episode 65 – What’s Really Holding Islamic Finance Back? 52:09

3M ago52:09

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Why does Islamic finance still struggle with standardisation, accessibility, and product credibility? In this episode, we speak with Ijlal Alvi, CEO of International Islamic Financial Market (IIFM) about what’s really holding the industry back. We talked on topics from the overuse of tawarruq and the lack of unified Shariah standards, to why retail…

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Episode 64-Boom, Bubble or Hedge? Making Sense of Alts 38:42

4M ago38:42

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In episode 64, we're joined by Dr. Ryan Lemand, Co-Founder & CEO of NeoVision Wealth Management and a prominent voice in global finance. They dive into the world of alternative assets, from gold and crypto to meme stocks, and unpack how regulation, social media, and investor psychology are reshaping markets. Ryan explains why Bitcoin behaves more l…

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Episode 63-Is MENA the Next Silicon Valley? 25:07

4M ago25:07

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In this episode, we spoke to Said Murad, a Dubai-based Senior Partner at Global Ventures. The conversation explores the growth of the MENA startup ecosystem, investment opportunities, challenges faced by founders, and the impact of global economic conditions on the region. The episode covered several topics including: The importance of talent acqui…

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Episode 62-Why Islamic Finance Isn’t Driving Impact 54:06

4M ago54:06

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🎙 Episode 62 – Why Islamic Finance Isn’t Driving Impact We welcome back Reza Zain Jaufeerally to explore why Islamic finance is falling short on climate action, development goals, and real-world impact—and what must change. This wide-ranging conversation touches on everything from AI and sustainability to grassroots initiatives, cultural challenges…

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Episode 61-What Do Shariah Scholars Do? 1:01:58

5M ago1:01:58

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In our 61st episode, we spoke to Datuk Prof. Dr Mohamad Akram Laldin. He is a Professor at INCEIF University and a globally respected Shariah scholar. He was formerly Executive Director of ISRA and has advised central banks and financial institutions across Malaysia, the GCC, and Central Asia. He currently serves on the Shariah Advisory Council of …

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Episode 60-Has Islamic Finance Lost Its Way? 1:04:01

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In our 60th episode, we spoke to Ryan Calder. Ryan is an assistant professor of sociology and director of the Program in Islamic Studies at Johns Hopkins University. He studies fast-changing global markets where money and morality intersect. His first book, The Paradox of Islamic Finance (Princeton University Press 2024), draws on over 280 intervie…

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Ep 59-Is Journalism Broken? Moniify, Media Shifts and the Road Ahead 59:23

6M ago59:23

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In our 59th episode, we spoke to Paromita Dey. She is a wealth management journalist with over 14 years of experience covering private banking, asset management, and investment trends across the Middle East and India. Her work has appeared in top publications including Citywire, AsianInvestor, and Business Today. Known for turning complex finance i…

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Episode 58-Fund Focus: The GCC Investment Boom 33:23

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In this episode, we’re joined by Dounia Mansour, a Dubai-based partner at King & Spalding. She advises on setting up a wide range of investment funds—from private equity and real estate to Shariah-compliant structures. We covered several topics including The funds landscape in the Middle East The rise of Shariah-compliant funds Why the UAE—is becom…

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Episode 57-Counting the cost: Inside Syria's economy 1:47:07

7M ago1:47:07

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December 8 2024 will forever be a turning point in Syria’s modern history. The fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime brings new risks, challenges, and opportunities. But how did we get here? In this episode, we break down Syria’s economy under Assad, from pre-2011 through the 14-year civil war, and explore the economic challenges ahead. Joining us is Ji…

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Episode 56-Gulf Currents: Bahrain in a Changing Gulf 1:06:00

7M ago1:06:00

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Bahrain’s economy is often overshadowed by its larger Gulf neighbours, but it plays a crucial role in the region’s financial landscape In episode 56, we spoke to Duncan Mayall, Chief Economist at Consulum. He has over 15 years experience advising sovereign wealth funds and investment bodies across the Gulf, North Africa, and China. In this episode,…

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Episode 55-Decrypting MENA’s Crypto Surge 1:08:48

8M ago1:08:48

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In episode 55, we’re joined by Alex Chehade, a finance and crypto veteran with over two decades of experience. His experience includes market-making in traditional finance to leading Binance FZE in Dubai. As the Middle East cements its status as a global crypto hub, Alex is focused on bridging the gap between traditional finance and DeFi—making dig…

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Episode 54-The Gold Standard: Power, Policy & Markets 51:37

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In our 54th episode, we’re joined by Andrew Naylor, Head of Middle East and Public Policy at the World Gold Council. We discuss gold’s role in global markets, its significance in Islamic finance, and what the future holds for this precious metal. We covered several topics including: The drivers behind the recent gold price rally Gold's role in Isla…

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Episode 53-Saudi Unscripted: Content, Change & Growth 47:42

8M ago47:42

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In our 53rd episode, we're joined by Yasmin AlKhowaiter, host of The Majlis, a podcast where she talks to global thought leaders about Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation. With a background in consulting, Yasmin has worked with both private and public sector clients—giving her a unique perspective on the region’s rapid evolution. In this episode…

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Episode 52-Profit with Purpose: Halal Investing 45:50

9M ago45:50

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Monem Salam, Director and Portfolio Manager at Saturna Capital. With years of experience in Islamic investing, he’s been is a leading voice in the industry. In this episode, we explore: The evolution of Islamic finance The latest investment trends Where the industry is headed next Please note that this discussion is for informational purposes only …

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Episode 51-The Venture Shift: MENA’s Next Big Moves 39:51

9M ago39:51

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In our 51st episode, we’re joined by Philip Bahoshy, founder and CEO of MAGNiTT, the leading start-up data platform for emerging venture markets. In our conversation, we covered several topics including: The region’s VC ecosystem—its challenges, opportunities How MAGNiTT is bridging gaps with data and insights Philip's outlook for 2025 MAGNiTT's fi…

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Episode 50: Tackling Liquidity in Islamic Finance 54:45

9M ago54:45

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In our 50th episode, we spoke to Mohamad Safri, CEO of the International Islamic Liquidity Management Corporation (IILM). With nearly 30 years in banking and over 20 as a leader in Islamic finance, Safri has been instrumental in shaping the global Islamic capital market. In our conversation, we covered topics including: The liquidity challenges Isl…

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Episode 49-Setting the Standard: AAOIFI's Impact on Islamic Finance 1:09:40

10M ago1:09:40

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In this exclusive episode, we’re joined by Omar Ansari, Secretary General of Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI)—the global standard-setter for Islamic finance. In this depth conversation, we covered several topics including: AAOIFI’s role in shaping the industry Why standardisation and implementation ar…

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Episode 48-The Alt Shift: The Rise of Alternative Assets 47:39

10M ago47:39

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Alternative assets like gold, cryptocurrency, and private credit have gained momentum in recent years, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine war, and uncertainty around interest rates. These investments have become key as investors seek stability and higher returns. With President Trump 2.0 preparing to take office and new uncertainties on t…

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Episode 47-Islamic Finance Decoded: Growth and Gaps 1:01:40

11M ago1:01:40

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This year, Islamic finance has made significant strides, with sukuk issuances reaching record highs and the market expanding into green and sustainable finance. With the industry on track to hit $6 trillion by 2027, its growth is undeniable. However, challenges persist. Rising compliance costs, the push for harmonisation, and the introduction of AA…

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Episode 46-Building Markets: The GCC IPO Surge 51:20

11M ago51:20

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In recent years, the IPO market in the GCC has been on fire. Driven by government initiatives and a push to expand regional equity markets, the region has seen a surge in IPO activity. Saudi Arabia is expecting over 50 IPOs in 2024, while the UAE has led the way in IPO proceeds, especially in 2023. But what’s behind this rise? What challenges do c…

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Episode 45-Faith and Friction: The UK’s Islamic Banking Story 1:05:26

11M ago1:05:26

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The UK is the leading hub for Islamic finance in the West. The London Stock Exchange holds 35% of the US dollar sukuk market, and English law governs most sukuk worldwide. But domestically, the industry is small. By the end of 2023, Islamic banks made up just 0.1% of UK banking assets, according to Fitch. In our 45th episode, we spoke to Mohammed P…

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Episode 44-Bonding Over Green: The GCC’s ESG Shift 32:56

11M ago32:56

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Sustainability and ESG are now key priorities in the GCC, with green bonds, sustainable loans, and major projects like Masdar City and NEOM driving change. But, are banks and institutions doing enough? And how does the GCC compare globally? In our 44th episode, we spoke to Daniel Gribbin, Deloitte Middle East’s Sustainability and ESG Lead. With ove…

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Episode 43-Banking on Belief: Islamic Finance in Canada 43:32

11M ago43:32

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With Muslims now making up nearly 5% of the population, demand for Shariah-compliant financial services is growing in Canada. Yet, the sector remains small and underdeveloped. To unpack the challenges and opportunities, we spoke with Mohamad Sawwaf, Founder and CEO of Manzil, Canada’s leading Islamic FinTech firm. With a Doctorate in Islamic Financ…

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Episode 42-Emirates of Influence: The UAE’s Rise in Global Markets 1:16:30

11M ago1:16:30

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The United Arab Emirates (or UAE), once known mainly for its oil, now drives growth across finance, trade, and technology. Dubai stands out as a global hub for finance and tourism, while Abu Dhabi channels its wealth into high-tech industries and global investments. Meanwhile, other emirates, like Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, are developing their ow…

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Episode 41-Malaysia’s Future: Balancing Growth and Giants 42:40

12M ago42:40

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In the last decade, Malaysia has experienced dramatic shifts— from the 1MDB scandal that shook the nation, to its rise as an economic player, all while balancing relationships with global powers like the US and China. To help us unpack these complex dynamics, we’re joined by Nick Khaw, economist and Head of Research at Khazanah Nasional, Malaysia’s…

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Episode 40-Kingdom Capital: Shaping Saudi’s Economic Future 43:11

1y ago43:11

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Since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched Vision 2030 in 2016, Saudi Arabia has undergone major changes. The kingdom is opening up its society and reshaping its economy by investing in industries like mining and tourism. In particular, the financial sector, is driving much of this progress and attracting global attention. In our 40th episode,…

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Episode 39-Fuelling the Future: The Middle East’s Energy Shift 37:21

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Natural resources are central to Middle Eastern economies. While climate change and green financing are on the rise, oil and gas still dominate, shaping economies and global markets. At the same time, Gulf nations are exploring new energy options to meet their climate goals. In our 39th episode, we’re joined by Carole Nakhle, founder and CEO of Cry…

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Episode 38-Venture Into Iraq: Start-Ups on the Rise 37:01

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After years of instability, Iraq’s political and security situation is improving, opening up new opportunities for economic growth. With a young, tech-savvy population, many are starting businesses in areas like fintech and e-commerce. The potential is there, but challenges like funding, infrastructure, and regulations still slow things down. Our g…

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Episode 37-Banking on Faith: Australia’s First Islamic Bank 36:39

1y ago36:39

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Islamic finance is gaining traction in Australia. With over 813,000 Muslims—about 3.2% of the population—there's an increasing demand for financial services that align with their faith. However, Islamic finance still makes up a small part of the banking sector, with limited options from major banks and a few non-bank providers. Change is on the hor…

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Episode 36-Crypto Currents: Fintech and Digital Assets in the Gulf 37:41

1y ago37:41

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The digitalisation of finance is reshaping the industry, with new asset classes like cryptocurrency gaining traction. Dubai and the UAE have become key hubs for fintech and crypto, driven by new frameworks and initiatives to attract firms and talent. Saudi Arabia and Qatar are also enhancing their regulatory systems. But what are the benefits and c…

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Episode 35-Egypt’s Fintech Focus: Growth and Challenges 38:36

1y ago38:36

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Egypt is quickly becoming a major tech and fintech hub in MENA and Africa. With over 100 million people, many of them young and tech-savvy, and a strategic location connecting continents, the country is set for impressive growth. But the path forward isn’t without its challenges. These include regulatory hurdles, market fragmentation, and infrastru…

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Episode 34-Feeling the Heat: Gulf States and Climate Shifts 53:40

1y ago53:40

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Across the MENA region, environmental challenges are rising, but the six Gulf Arab states—Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain—are feeling the impact the most. With economies built on oil and gas, they’re now on the frontlines of climate change. COP28 in Dubai last year called for urgent action, but what are Gulf countries actual…

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Episode 33-Islamic Finance: Kazakhstan's Next Frontier 40:03

1y ago40:03

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Since 2009, Kazakhstan has been integrating Islamic finance into its economy to attract foreign investment and diversify its financial sector. Leading this effort is the Astana International Financial Centre, or AIFC, which aims to make Kazakhstan a financial bridge between East and West. With its strategic location and a growing Muslim population,…

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Episode 32-Building Trends: UAE & Saudi Real Estate Insights 52:18

1y ago52:18

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Dubai's real estate has surged in the past decade, driven by its strategic location and luxury demand. Abu Dhabi is advancing, and even smaller emirates like Ras Al Khaimah are attracting attention with new projects. Saudi Arabia is the major focus, with Vision 2030 transforming the real estate landscape through NEOM’s futuristic cities and ambitio…

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Episode 31-Pyramids of Pressure: Egypt's Economic Balance 57:53

1y ago57:53

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Egypt's economy is under intense pressure, with a currency crisis, soaring debt, rampant inflation, and a struggling private sector. But a major UAE investment in February 2024 and a recent IMF bailout offers hope. Plus, Egypt’s entry into BRICS in 2023 hints at a shift eastward. In our 31st episode, we spoke to Beth Morrissey, managing partner and…

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Episode 30- Inside the Gulf bonds bonanza 45:38

1y ago45:38

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According to Fitch, the GCC debt capital market has soared to nearly $1 trillion. In 1H24, GCC primary debt issuance reached $75.5bn compared to $54.8bn in the same period last year, representing a 38% increase, according to Markaz, a Kuwait-based financial institution. In the first five months of 2024, emerging market dollar debt issuance—excludin…

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Episode 29-Exploring the GCC Private Credit Boom 51:48

1y ago51:48

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According to the IMF, private credit assets grew to $2.1 trillion globally in 2023. With banks less willing to lend to riskier firms in the US and Europe, private credit has stepped in as a key lender. In the GCC, private credit activity has surged, with financial institutions setting up new funds and financing transactions. Examples include Mubada…

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Episode 28-MENA VC Insights: Saudi surge and regional trends 38:51

1y ago38:51

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The Middle East, Pakistan and Turkey secured $665 million in funding in the first half of 2024, equating to an 18% drop from last year, according to Magnitt, a Dubai-based VC data platform. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia led the MENA region with $412 million in VC funding, despite a slight 7% decline. Investor numbers in the MENA increased by 33%, showing…

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Episode 27-Profit Over Principles? The Ethical Dilemma in Islamic Finance 1:04:21

1+ y ago1:04:21

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The modern Islamic finance industry has grown since the 1970s into a $5 trillion industry. Critics argue that despite its ethical roots, it often prioritizes shareholder returns over impact investing. Whilst Islamic finance shares principles with ethical finance, it usually focuses on profits rather than social and environmental outcomes. In our 27…

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Episode 26-Central Asia's Fintech Revolution 1:05:51

1+ y ago1:05:51

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Despite a young, tech-savvy, and predominantly Muslim population, Islamic finance in Central Asia remains small and underdeveloped. The region's financial services and fintech sectors also lag behind their global counterparts. In our 26th episode, we spoke to Abdullo Kurbanov, co-founder of Alif Bank, a leading challenger bank in Central Asia. Toda…