International Investor - Summer Issue 2021

INTERNATIONAL

MEET THE REAL MIGHT OF MAERSK OENO: THE WORLD’S LEADING FINE WINE GROUP

SUMMER ISSUE

UK £5.00 EUROPE €8.80 CHINA ¥44.00 US $6.50 UAE ‫د‬.‫إ‬24.00

WWW.INTINVESTOR.COM

LOM: BUILDING A LEGACY TO LAST

Euro Exim Bank and how to thrive in uncertain times

THE NEW

MINI ELECTRIC.

BECAUSE WE LOVE TO FEEL ELECTRIC.

Editor’s Note A challenging year that is not over yet, many questions remain to be answered, in this edition we try to answer some of the international investor community biggest doubts. For instance, African Stocks, the most fascinating options now (p.10). Also, Chile that despite the pandemic managed to attract a record amount of foreign investment during the f irst half of 2021 and is now focusing on new opportunities to attract foreign companies (p.25).

Whereas the devastating effects of the pandemic have been seen everywhere in the world, forecasts are predicting a staged recovery and evidence already showing a return to pre-covid trade levels, Euro Exim Bank is the best example in how recovery is possible (p.40). In the MENA markets, Invest in Sharjah CEO Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh explains how to swiftly respond to the shifting needs of global investors (p.54).

Apart f rom the pandemic, climate change is the next challenge that needs to be tackled. Maersk shows how this challenge has become a strategic imperative.

The industry leader is stepping up efforts to decarbonise shipping with the first carbon-neutral vessel to hit the waters in 2023, seven years ahead of initial plan (p.

66.) In that line, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is launching its own Energy Compact to support the energy transition, focussed on investments within its flagship urban sustainability programme, EBRD Green Cities (p. 70).

Finally, a big thank you and sincere congratulations to our winners of this edition.

Without them International Investor Magazine wouldn’t be possible (p. 84).

Contents

Contents

48

44

11

14

18

Take a Look at These 6 Rising African Stocks Now

Post-Issuance Reporting in the Green Bond Market 2021

Meet the real might of Maersk

The most fascinating options in Af rica at

Post-issuance series: 3rd iteration

the moment.

From sea and air to terminals and land, A.P. Moller - Maersk is made of many well-run parts.

25

35

40

Chile: the rise of Latin America’s foreign investment hub

The best Stock Exchange

Euro Exim Bank and how to thrive in uncertain times

Chile managed to attract a record amount

Tokyo Stock Exchange is established as the

Euro Exim Bank stands ready to service

of foreign investment

central stock market of Japan

the huge Tier 2-3 SME and corporate market

44

48

54

AIAMS launches rebrand in conjunction with anniversary

Meet the new Mini Electric Collection

The Association has built a diverse,

The new MINI Electric welcomes a new

collaborative community of over 80 active

edition

Invest in Sharjah builds on robust plan to boost postpandemic

member firms

CEO Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh explains how the entity is responding to the shifting needs of global investors

06 |

I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

58

61

66

The Asian Stock Exchange you need to know right now

Report uncovers $913bn in ‘Hidden’ Sustainable Investment Opportunities

Climate action: a strategic imperative

With rapid movements and solid growth, this mix of emerging and developed markets holds plenty of opportunities within Asia.

As expectations from customers,

Report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global unlabelled climate-aligned bond market

investors and employees intensify, climate action has become a strategic imperative

70 EBRD launches Energy Compact for its urban sustainability programme The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is launching its own Energy Compact to support the energy transition

74

NORTH AMERICA State of70 the Market

74

2021

Virgin Atlantic expands its offering with new services Virgin Atlantic has announced a significant expansion to its Caribbean portfolio

80 Sustainable Finance Soars in North America This report is Climate Bonds’ first standalone State of the Market for the North

80

America

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE

| 07

Contents

010 |

I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Take a Look at These 6 Rising African Stocks Now The most fascinating options in Africa at the moment.

Understanding the stock market is not so easy, you start by trying to have a complete awareness on how things work, all without ignoring the potential macroeconomic consequences of any decision. Indeed, knowing trading strategies is good, but quick execution is certainly critical.

Many people may move past African stocks, and some investors may forget about the real potential of this emerging market and look elsewhere; but companies within this continent are making remarkable progress, offering outstanding opportunities to those who are willing to face the risks.

To understand the strong value that some African stocks embody today, it is necessary to understand the whole picture. To help you navigate this whole process, we made a list for you, here are the top 6 African stocks you need to look at right now.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE

| 011

Take a Look at These 6 R ising African Stocks N ow

1. MIX TELEMATICS LIMITED

4. STANDARD BANK GROUP With its headquarters near Johannesburg, South Africa, Standard Bank Group (NYSE: SGBLY) holds the status of being a very notable bank and financial services entity within the region. It is the leading African bank based on the size of its assets ($140B), and just had $8B in yearly revenue. We can say that the SBG remains steady, stable, and will stay strong in future downturns.

5. NASPERS If you really want to be on the cutting edge of technology without taking much of the risk, check out Naspers (OTCMKTS:NPSNY). This South African giant made MiX Telematics (NYSE:MIXT) is a powerful worldwide

impressive moves early on by investing in Tencent.

provider of various asset management solutions for fleets

Naspers provides less than .20% dividend yield, but grants

and mobile vehicles. It can support large and small fleets

you exposure to other fairly significant tech platforms.

while helping consumers with solutions for protection and

Its worldwide reach, mixed with the right investments

compliance. The firm arrived on the scene in 1996 and has

provide Naspers with over $3.5B in earnings per year.

a presence worldwide. It has presence in Af rica, the UK, the US, South America, Australia and the Middle East.

6. MTN GROUP With MTN Group (OTC:MTNOY), prospective investors

It has a staying power as it is a subscription based service

get access to the developing South African and Asian

with over 750,000 subscribers in more than 100 countries.

markets. This firm develops communications services that

But it also has over a 28% EBITDA margin.

range from broadband to internet-oriented products.

With subscription revenues of $30 million and regular

This firm has the privilege of working with Facebook, in

subscriber additions, this company will have enough

order to implement a large subsea cable that will help

room to run. It is fairly valued and represents a fantastic

improve fast data transfers in Asia and Africa. Make no

business opportunity.

mistake, the MTN Group is a heavy hitter in the industry.

2. SASOL LIMITED

It has over 270M subscribers and was able to post a recent

Sasol Limited (NYSE: SSL) is an integrated energy and

first quarter revenue of $2.93B. The company’s stock is

chemical firm based in South Africa. The firm is highly

on a tear as more investors realize the value of these

motivated to improve its balance sheet by investing in

emerging markets. The firm will continue to be valuable

the right operations. Proof of that is how they successfully

as it provides key infrastructure services, hyper valuable to

managed to increase its revenue, net income, and its

the digital learning world.

diluted EPS by a wide margin.

It’s been a tough time for this integrated energy company but it is turning the ship around. The firm has shed down its debt, is improving its credit rating, and is seeking to bring back dividends.

Analysts note that this company is undervalued and could certainly outperform the market in the near future.

3. SIBANYE STILLWATER Sibanye Stillwater (NYSE:SBSW) is a precious metals mining company. Now, this may not seem as exciting as technology stocks but there’s hidden value here. This multinational has mining properties in the USA and South Af rica, and here’s why it is so interesting: The firm has a market cap of $10.9B, recent earnings of over $40B, a fantastic net profit margin of over 24% and a positive net income. Here is the kicker: it only has a P/E ratio of around 3.60. It will grow its dividends over time as well.

012 |

I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE

| 013

Post-issuance reporting in the green bond market 2021

Prepared by Climate Bonds Initiative.

Sponsored by IDB, UniCredit and Lyxor ETF. Post-issuance reporting in the green bond market 2021 Climate Bonds Initiative

1

Post-Issuance Reporting in the Green Bond Market 2021: New Report Assesses Availability, Quality and Consistency of UoP and Impact Reporting

by Liam Jones

POST-ISSUANCE SERIES: 3RD ITERATION – REPORTING IS COMMONPLACE, BUT HARMONISATION NEEDED Climate Bonds has released the Post-issuance reporting in the green bond market 2021 report, our third iteration, looking into the availability and attributes of use-ofproceeds (UoP) and impact disclosure for green bonds.

Supported by IDB, UniCredit and Lyxor ETF, it is an indepth review of green bond reporting, shedding light on post-issuance reporting practices and identifying avenues for further improvement in this space.

The analysis is based on a review of green bonds included in the Climate Bonds Green Bond Database issued between Q4’17 and Q1’19, with the bulk of the research conducted during 2020.

KEY FINDINGS Availability of post-issuance reporting is widespread, but UoP reporting remains more prevalent than impact reporting.

• 77% of issuers, representing 88% of the amount issued,

REPORTING NEARING 100% MARK Research was conducted just over one year after the end of issue cut-off period; the figures cover bonds issued between Q4’17 and Q1’19, with the bulk of the research conducted in mid-2020. This allows for more than a year since the end of the issue date cut-off, but less than the two-year maximum recommended by the Green Bond Principles(link is external).

Greenwashing is rare. From our estimates, almost all non-reporting issuers at the time of research have now reported at least UoP. Our estimates indicate reporting would be close to 100% if repeated now for the same bonds.

provided use-of-proceeds (UoP) reporting • 59% of issuers and 74% of the amount issued provided impact reporting • 57% of issuers and 73% of the amount issued have both

In addition, no bonds were excluded from our database following the post-issuance research, reflecting our robust database methodology and the fact that issuers genuinely finance green projects/assets.

UoP and impact reporting • Larger issuers are more likely to report: reporting is higher when assessed by % of amount issued rather than by % of issuers • Reporting share has increased versus early stages of the market (especially on impacts) and the share continued to increase in recent years, albeit by a smaller margin

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE

| 015

Post-IssuanceReportingintheGreenBondMarket2021:NewReportAssessesAvailability,QualityandConsistencyofUoPandImpactReporting

STILL ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT

VARIED QUALITY AND CONSISTENCY

Improvements in post-issuance reporting can be targeted

Features of quality reporting include providing clear, easily

at some weaker issuer types and geographies, as well as

accessible and granular information, as well as reporting

tackling the lack of standardisation in impact reporting.

in line with commitments at issuance and obtaining

It is rare to find any segment of the market with more

external reviews.

non-reporting than reporting issuers, but there are variations in availability of reporting depending on deal size, external reviews, issuer type and geography. For example: • Reporting share is higher among larger deals and larger issuers, as well as in deals with external review (especially post-issuance) • Private sector issuers are most polarised in terms of reporting availability, with financial corporates ranking

We used an internally developed methodology to score

first and non-financials last – in broad terms, public

issuers out of a total of 25 points, and found that:

sector issuers exhibit more consistency

• Large deals do not necessarily have higher-quality

• Developed Markets (DM) tend to have higher share (and quality) of reporting, but there are several exceptions (especially in small markets due to low number of deals/issuers)

reporting, as average, median and maximum scores are relatively constant for all deal sizes; however, there is a clear increase in minimum scores, suggesting larger deals less likely to have poor-quality reporting • European entities are most consistent in quality, with 110 issuers ranging between 10–25 points; Asia-Pacific has a 6–25 range, and North America’s range is also wider than Europe’s even though its issuer count is about half • More than just having high scorers; more mature green bond markets have consistently good-scoring issuers • Spain is the country with most high scorers (previously France), with four issuers scoring at least 24 points; Hong Kong follows with three

HARMONISING DISCLOSURE An expanding market, together with increasing guidance and developments in reporting practices, have 016 |

I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

contributed to a rich and varied reporting landscape –

leading the drive towards comprehensive sustainability

now, harmonisation of disclosure must be the priority.

reporting from a regulatory perspective through NFRD(link is external) and more recently CSRD(link is

In the absence of a common f ramework to report within,

external), supported by the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable

issuers must independently plan, create, and publish

Activities(link is external), SFDR(link is external) and

green bond reports. This creates a market characterised

TCFD(link is external).

by fragmented approaches to reporting, posing problems especially for impact comparability and aggregation.

THE LAST WORD Overall, economic systems are man-made, and we can

The real evolution is therefore yet to come, in the form of a

adjust them. Redesigning our system by changing the

common standardised reporting f ramework and platform

fundamental rules that drive environmental – and social –

leading to greater availability, quality and consistency of

degradation will enable us to become sustainable, achieve

disclosure globally.

net-zero and limit warming to 2°C (and much quicker than under current trajectories); but it will also allow us to

Several promising efforts exist, including some platforms

go beyond this, expanding the common good indefinitely

already launched or under development focusing on

in a process of continuous and holistic evolution. However,

impact reporting such as ICMA Impact Reporting Working

a paradigm shift is needed to achieve this.

Group(link is external). The EU Green Bond Standard(link is external) may also have potential to drive the creation of

In this light, comprehensive sustainability reporting under

a globally adopted reporting f ramework for thematic debt

a common framework has the power to create a purpose-

instruments. Climate Bonds is set to expand its efforts in

driven economy with impact at its core, driving a real

this space.

transition economy- and worldwide.

BEYOND UOP INSTRUMENTS A successful f ramework targeting UoP instruments would be beneficial in the interim, but the current approach to impact measurement among UoP instruments does not provide a real and full picture of impacts.

There is a need to assess impact holistically, use absolute – not relative – metrics, and look beyond UoP instruments for entity-level assessments.

There are growing calls for globally consistent, comparable and reliable sustainability disclosure standards, and a wealth of existing work, tools and resources could be leveraged to this end. The EU is

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 017

01 8 |

I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Meet the real might of Maersk Phillip Edward Lewin, Communication Advisor & Editor Jesper Toft Madsen, Key Publications Manager & Editor From sea and air to terminals and land, A.P. Moller - Maersk is made of many well-run parts. But it is the synergies between these parts that create the real firepower.

A JOURNEY WELL UNDER WAY The progress Maersk has made since 2016 on its transformation journey towards becoming the global integrator is an important dimension of how they create value today.

This progress includes the transformation of Ocean business, the foundation of the company, f rom an asset operator and capacity player in a highly commoditised market to a customer-centric leader in differentiated solutions. It includes the transformation of their APM Terminals business from a greenfield developer into a world-class operator.

Finally, it includes an organic and inorganic build-up of their Logistics & Services capabilities - from the transformation of their legacy Damco freight forwarding business into a profitable and scalable air cargo offering and the acquisition of new warehouse, distribution and customs services.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 019

Meet the real migh t of Maers k

The heart of the value creation f ramework is built around

essentially redefining what we sell to our customers at

Maersk’s leadership position in Ocean - the broad reach of

a very critical time for the world’s supply chains,” says

our global network and the highly qualified seafarers who

Aymeric Chandavoine, Head of Logistics & Services.

run these vessels.

CHANGING THE CONVERSATION The f ramework logic around how they create value looks

The left-hand side of the framework is all about customer

at the synergies between this Ocean core and Logistics

synergies, Maersk’s aspiration to continue disrupting

& Services that create value for customers, and the

the industry and create better customer outcomes as

synergies between Ocean and APM Terminals that create

an integrated logistics supplier. Much of this comes

financial and operational efficiencies in how we deliver

from moving beyond their historic core in Ocean to help

that value.

customers confront the complexities of running a global supply chain – from trade wars and weather disruptions

The common enabler between all of these elements is

to better matching production and demand in rapidly

digital. Maersk is also undergoing a massive technology

evolving markets.

transformation, not only in terms of developing dataempowered solutions but becoming a truly data driven

These challenges existed before the COVID-19 pandemic.

and integrated organisation. This means standardised

But in 2020, the entire industry was turned on its head

processes for speed and efficiency and one single source

as manufacturers scrambled to keep their supply chains

of truth instead of data scrambled across many formats

running, despite lower capacity, border closures and

and standards.

unprecedented restrictions. 2020 served as a wakeup call for many who realised their supply chains were too

One illustration of the way these synergies bring all

fragmented and vulnerable to disruptions, and that they

elements together is their current product portfolio.

lacked the flexibility and ability to cope with relentless

Maersk is now able to introduce products and services

change.

that help customers connect and simplify their supply chains with speed and a seamless, end-to-end experience

Traditional supply chain performance drivers like speed

on proven platforms.

and cost are still key today. But the pandemic and the ripples it sent through the industry have brought new

“We’ve added global capabilities to provide customers

players like accountability and resilience to the forefront.

with comprehensive logistics services along their supply chains, and the ability to integrate those services with

“These newer value drivers present a significant

our core Ocean product to create integrated solutions;

opportunity for Maersk to change the conversation with

020 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

1

Source: Maersk

Classification: Public

our more than 70,000 customers about the role we

as companies look to make better use of data from

play in their supply chains. The synergies unlocked by

demand forecasting and inventory management to

combining Ocean and inland Logistics & Services into

logistics scheduling. Platforms that can provide standard

integrated solutions will help customers tick all the boxes

and granular access to all this data across integrated

– predictability, reliability, simplicity, flexibility, speed and

solutions - yet at the same time do so with simplicity - will

cost,” says Kim Pedersen, Head of Sales & Marketing at a.

be a major disruptor in the world’s supply chains. Maersk’s

P. Moller - Maersk.

ambition is to lead these conversations.

Digital naturally has a critical role in this conversation,

With the acquisition of Visible Supply Chain Management

as companies fast track new technologies to boost

and the intention to acquire B2C Europe, Maersk has

resilience and flexibility. This has resulted in a massive

set out to quickly build strong E-commerce Logistics

increase in the flow of end-to-end data in supply chains,

capabilities that expand its offering and complement its

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE

| 021

022 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

existing end-to-end supply chain offering. It is about addressing customer needs and unlocking a growth and earnings potential.

BIG OPPORTUNITY TO ACCELERATE Customers face inefficiencies and complexities every day. They are subject to different regulatory regimes, bottlenecks, weather disruptions and trade tensions. The longer the supply chain, the more loss of control and things that can go wrong.

Too often, customers’ supply chain is subject to inefficiencies, waste, and complexity that they cannot control, created by their partners. Customers tell us that their main problems are manmade, and therefore, Maersk’s ability to solve them through integrated logistics presents a huge opportunity.

“Our right to win begins with our 70,000 customers.

The trust and the relations we have with them is our foundation and biggest asset to build a customercentric global integrator at scale. Success will be defined by our growth and profitability as proof points that what we do for customers meets or exceeds their needs and creates value,” says Vincent Clerc, CEO of Ocean & Logistics.

While customer needs are evolving rapidly, the importance of agility, operational excellence and technology has been reconfirmed. The challenge remains to increase quality and stickiness in Ocean, and how to differentiate through the Logistics & Services offering.

“Taking on this challenge represents a huge opportunity for us. By creating value for our customers through differentiated value propositions, we will see a ripple effect that will change our customer experience and relationships, make us more reliable in our delivery, and enable us to grow and create a stable and profitable business,” explains Vincent Clerc.

Maersk is not the only one on to it – but none has yet built the customer relationships, the presence along the supply chains, the people, the technology and the resources to capture it, at scale.

“We stand in an enviable place to capture this. That is the journey we are on, the company we are building for the future. We have a lot to be proud of, and a lot to look forward to for the journey ahead.”

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 023

IN CHILE, WE'RE BUILDING THE ENERGY OF THE FUTURE… …and moving forward with projects on green hydrogen, 5G, data centers, astronomical observatories, research centers, plastic recycling, food technology, green mining and more.

Discover the all-new business opportunities that Latin America's leading country offers!

CERRO DOMINADOR, Latin America's first concentrated solar power plant.

CONTACT US NOW!

Chile: the rise of Latin America’s foreign investment hub Despite the pandemic, Chile managed to attract a record amount of foreign investment during the first half of 2021 and is now focusing on new opportunities to attract foreign companies.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is going through a particularly dynamic time in Chile. According to official data, a record amount of US$13.7 billion was invested in the country between January and June 2021. This amount not only marks a 66% increase compared to the first half of 2020, but also exceeds the total FDI amount registered in that entire year (US$8.5 billion).

Although the pandemic caused an overall drop of 45% in foreign investment in the region, investment in Chile is showing positive and stable growth. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as the multitude of market opportunities, a solid track record as an investment recipient, economic openness, and the work being done by InvestChile the country’s investment promotion agency.

InvestChile, which is managing projects worth over US$24 billion, is now committed to promoting opportunities in sectors like clean energy, technology, 5G, green hydrogen and even vaccine laboratories.

We spoke with the Managing Director of InvestChile, Andrés Rodríguez, to learn more.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 025

Meet the real migh t of Maers k

WHAT ATTRACTS FOREIGN INVESTORS TO CHILE?

companies in order to facilitate their arrival in Chile.

Chile has an excellent track record as a foreign investment

We offer a range of services that include delivering

recipient. This is extremely important for companies

tailor-made sector reports, performing field visits

with a long-term vision. Although our country faces

and developing meeting agendas with key industry

many challenges, we have been able to consistently

stakeholders. Our team is able to meet foreign companies’

maintain various positive qualities. These include an

needs in 8 different languages, thus facilitating their

excellent business environment, the best competitiveness

decision-making process and speeding up their arrival in

indices, access to clean energy, and the ease of setting

our country.

up a company in the country (something that has been recognized by major international rankings). Additionally,

While the pandemic caused a 35% drop in FDI flows

our different industries are economically open, we have

worldwide in 2020, InvestChile’s portfolio grew 23%. We

an export vocation (with a network of 30 commercial

can attribute this to the implementation of an aggressive

agreements with 65 economies), and very high-level

strategy that allowed us to maintain the dynamism of the

professionals. As a result, international companies see

projects that were already under development, while also

Chile as an attractive market to set up in, as well as a

working on innovating our digital marketing strategies,

strategic jumping-off point to grow their activities in other

using business intelligence tools, and attracting

parts of Latin America.

investment from a distance. This included one-on-one meetings with the heads of established companies,

We also have the ability to effectively manage and support

including some that hadn’t been considering investing

foreign companies’ projects and offer them business

in Chile. We developed new services and began holding

opportunities in highly attractive and innovative sectors.

online events like seminars, webinars and roadshows

Chile takes a leading role, spearheading innovation and is

in markets of interest. We also created a series of new

always willing to explore opportunities in new areas.

sector e-books, which are a good way to initiate business conversations with companies.

WHAT ROLE DOES INVESTCHILE PLAY IN ATTRACTING FOREIGN INVESTMENT? InvestChile is managing a project portfolio of more than US$24 billion. Each year, we advise more than 700

026 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

WHAT NEW STRATEGIES HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED THIS YEAR? In 2021, we have strengthened our work by focusing on

accelerating companies’ decision-making processes. We

tripled from 52 projects worth US$1.6 billion in 2017 to 173

have implemented strategies such as “Invest in Chile

worth US$4.3 billion in 2021.

Now,” where we proactively contact leading companies (such as Tesla, Alibaba or Amazon) to discuss business and

“Over the past few years, companies like Google,

invite them to develop business in Chile.

Microsoft, AWS, Oracle, Ascenty and Huawei have installed technological infrastructure in Chile. Only last

One of InvestChile’s primary areas of focus in 2021 is

December, Microsoft announced its biggest investment

a new strategy to attract investment f rom the Middle

in the country of the last 28 years, with potential profits

East. This marks the first time the agency is prioritizing

of US$11.3 billion over the next four years. Oracle has also

this market. We are working with investment funds that

launched its Cloud Region, which will serve clients in

together manage more than US$2 trillion. Our team is also

Argentina, Peru, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia, as well as

contacting a series of companies f rom India, exploring the

Chile. And that’s not all: this year, via its Starlink subsidiary,

potential of Food and Technology sectors.

SpaceX chose Chile to launch its Latin American satellite internet operations. These are clear signs of

Until the end of this year, we will be developing an

the opportunities that Chile has on offer,” Rodríguez

aggressive agenda with more than 30 business activities

comments.

in key markets, including roadshows in the United States and Europe.

Chile also leads Latin America in terms of clean energy.

Bloomberg’s Climatescope ranking places the country

UNCTAD projects a recovery in FDI flows of around 10%

first among the emerging economies with greater

for this year. Our goal is to exceed that number and we’re

investment potential in the area. The last ten years have

working hard to that end.

seen significant clean energy development in Chile. In 2011, the country had 540 MW of NCRE installed capacity;

NEW OPPORTUNITIES

today, this figure has increased eleven-fold.

Chile is attracting attention with its new business opportunities, such as those offered in the digital

In this regard, Rodríguez highlights that “Chile’s goal was

economy sector. According to InvestChile’s portfolio

for its renewable energy plants to have the capacity to

figures, the number of technology sector projects has

generate 20% of the country’s energy matrix by 2025. Well, we’ve surpassed that goal and will reach 25% this year.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 027

028 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

But there’s still plenty of room to grow and innovate: Latin America’s first concentrated solar plant, Cerro Dominador, was inaugurated in mid-2021 and it is set to produce 210 MW of solar energy. Clean energy is, in fact, currently leading InvestChile’s portfolio, with projects worth more than US$9 billion.

And, while we’re on the subject of energy, Chile is in a race to develop its green hydrogen production capacity. Labeled the “energy of the future”, companies like Engie from France, Siemens from Germany and Spanish companies Enel, Acciona and Enagás are already developing projects in Chile. Thanks to its abundance of clean energy, Chile hopes to become the world’s cheapest green hydrogen producer by 2030.

“All these sectors, together with the more traditional ones like mining and infrastructure, are opening up new possibilities both for developing large-scale projects and for auxiliary industries and suppliers. Chile now offers a dynamic business ecosystem in which innovation is highly valued,” Rodríguez comments, adding that InvestChile is also opening new markets. “We’ve focused on supporting sectors like Venture Capital, in order to attract foreign investors to the innovation and development that is happening here. We want to help Chilean talent grow with the aid of investors who support the potential we have today,” he added.

HIGH POTENTIAL InvestChile is also supporting the development of food industry sectors with high potential. Chile is a world leader in food exports, with annual shipments of more than US$18 billion (especially fresh fruit and salmon). The country is now embracing technology and innovation in order to develop healthier foods. “We have food industry projects worth more than US$1.2 billion and we’re now focusing on promoting opportunities in areas like agtech and foodtech. Chile is set to become an important supplier of functional foods and ingredients, as well as food innovation, and foreign companies can now be part of this development,” Rodríguez said.

Speaking of new sectors, InvestChile played a key role in Sinovac’s decision to come to Chile. The Chinese company has announced that it will set up not only a vaccine production plant (initially for COVID-19 vaccines and later it will also produce vaccines for other diseases), but also as an R+D center that will allow Chilean scientists to develop new formulas that can be exported to the rest of the region. “Our idea is to generate a hub for setting up different research laboratories and technology companies. We’re already talking about this with European and American companies,” Rodríguez explains.

These are just some of the investment opportunities that Chile is working hard to develop with a view to attracting even more investment, regardless of the challenges presented by the pandemic. To judge by the figures to date, InvestChile’s work is achieving good results.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 029

LOM Financial Group Founded in 1992, The LOM Financial Group is an awardwinning publicly-held, international financial services company, providing a complete range of private investment services and products. Headquartered in Bermuda, with offices in Bahamas, Grand Cayman, Asia and the UK, LOM truly has the global presence to meet client needs.

LOM Financial Group

03 0 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE

| 03 1

LOM F inancial Group

032 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

For almost 30 years we have provided brokerage, custody,

award winning 5 star Morningstar rated mutual funds.

asset management and corporate finance services to high net-worth individuals and institutional clients

THE LOM METHOD

around the world. We pride ourselves on offering a high-

LOM is guided by an experienced management team

service alternative to the world’s largest private banks

from within an efficient corporate structure. Our

and investment managers. With a wealth of services

in-house portfolio managers, private advisors and

at your fingertips, LOM is your premier destination for

trading professionals ensure excellent execution of

independent advice from a tax neutral global platform.

your investment strategy. We take security and privacy

WE ARE GUIDED BY FIVE CORE PRINCIPLES

seriously, going to great lengths to safeguard client assets and information from the minute you are accepted as a client.

Fiduciary Responsibility We have extensive measures in place to protect your

In addition to experienced in-house managers, our open

assets. We will not leverage our balance sheet and will

architecture platform allows us to work hand-in-hand

maintain a conservative balance.

with top-tier third party asset managers in the course of achieving our clients’ goals.

Privacy We take our clients’ security and privacy seriously. We go to great lengths to safeguard your assets and your information from the minute you are accepted as a client.

Objectivity & Independence We act in your best interests and will provide independent advice; we are not influenced by the interests of a parent bank or investment dealer.

Professional Service Your dedicated private client relationship management team or broker will provide personal attention to your financial and account administration needs.

Continuity The Lines Family have been in the private wealth, trust and banking business for over 7 decades; LOM at its roots is a Family Office. We look at every new relationship as the start of a long-term, intergenerational relationship. These relationships are our core business.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT We specialise in developing and managing customised investment strategies. By leveraging our international

BUILDING A LEGACY TO LAST Our primary concern is meeting your needs, with an eye to growing and preserving your capital. Our success is measured by your success. At LOM we know it’s not just your portfolio’s performance that matters, it’s what your portfolio can do for you and your family. It’s our aim to help our clients build a lasting legacy.

OUR COMMITMENT TO OCEAN CONSERVATION “As a future-facing company it is our responsibility to act on the critical concerns of our generation and the next. Ocean conservation is an urgent global issue that is magnified in the jurisdictions we serve, and it demands our support.” Scott G. S. Lines, CEO & President At LOM we are passionate about building a sustainable future. Our social responsibility is dedicated to ocean conservation — a commitment that is embedded in the spirit of our brand. We contribute annually to nonprofits making a difference to the health of our oceans, the largest ecosystem on our planet that supports all forms of life and absorbs nearly a third of our carbon emissions.

jurisdictions in which they are located, as well as offer a

The LOM Financial Group is a publicly-held, international financial services company, providing a complete range of private investment services and products, with subsidiaries in Bermuda, Bahamas, Cayman, Manila and the UK. In business for almost 30 years, LOM provides brokerage, custody, asset management, and corporate finance services to its primarily high net-worth individual and institutional customers around the world. LOM Financial Limited is publicly listed on the Bermuda Stock Exchange (symbol LOM.BH), and is the parent to its regulated subsidiaries – LOM Financial (Bermuda) Ltd, LOM Financial (Bahamas) Ltd, LOM Asset Management Ltd, and Global Custody & Clearing Ltd.

diverse range of products and portfolios designed to meet

www.lom.com

branch offices, private bankers, and highly qualified Chartered Financial Analysts (CFAs), we are able to facilitate clients’ investment needs from each of the

individual investment objectives. Our products include

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 033

The best stock exch ange

The best stock exchange

03 4 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

The best stock exchange 1) INTRODUCTION Tokyo Stock Exchange is established as the central stock market of Japan in terms of number of listed companies, trading volume and market liquidity. Its aggregated market value is the 6th largest in the world and the third in Asia.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 035

The best stock exch ange

03 6 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

2) MARKET ACTIVITY The TSE cash equity market open to all investors is currently made up of four segments – First Section, Second Section, Mothers, and JASDAQ. The First Section is comprised of about 2,200 of the most liquid companies, and about 3,800 companies altogether.

TSE’s aggregated market value of USD 6.71 trillion as of 2020 is the 6th largest in the world, next to New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ, Shanghai Stock Exchange, Euronext and Hong Kong Exchange and Clearing.

Its stock trading value of USD 6.15 trillion, which is an indication of market liquidity, is the fifth largest in the world.

And to enhance its attractiveness as a marketplace, TSE has constantly increased its product line-up including its varieties of Exchange Traded Funds, Exchange Traded Notes, and Real Estate Investment Trusts.

Not only domestic traders, but market participants all over the world including institutional investors, funds, individual investors, and others are taking part in the TSE markets. In 2020, overseas investors made up about 65% of all trading volume.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 037

The best stock exch ange

3) MARKET RESTRUCTURING

with investors at the center.

TSE’s mission is to contribute to the realization of an affluent society, partially through improved convenience

The Standard Market is for companies which have

for market participants and all other stakeholders.

appropriate levels of market capitalization (liquidity) to be investment instruments in the open market, keep

One of our biggest challenges at the moment is

the basic level of corporate governance expected of

restructuring the market, currently made up of four

listed companies, and commit to sustainable growth and

divisions, into three new segments starting April 4, 2022,

improvement of medium- to long-term corporate value.

to incentivize listed companies to improve their corporate value over the medium to long term and thereby achieve

And the Growth Market is for companies which have a

even higher levels of support f rom diverse investors

certain level of market value by disclosing business plans

around the world.

for realizing high growth potential and their progress towards these appropriately and in a timely manner, but

The new market segments are “Prime”, “Standard“ and

at the same time pose a relatively high investment risk

“Growth”.

from the perspective of business track record.

Along with the market restructuring, TSE will revise the Tokyo Stock Price Index (TOPIX), which is currently comprised of all the domestic common stocks listed on the TSE First Section. With the new constituent selection, TSE is cutting TOPIX loose from market segments and aims to further improve its functionality as an investable index in addition to its representation of the market.

The revisions will be carried out in stages from October 2022 to January 2025, taking into account the large amounts of capital in TOPIX-based passive funds and the impact on the market.

4) THE HISTORY OF TSE AND ITS NEW ERA AS A COMPREHENSIVE EXCHANGE The history of TSE goes back to 1878. It was established soon after the Meiji Restoration, a political event that practically restored imperial rule to Japan in 1868 under Emperor Meiji, by the Japanese so-called “father of capitalism” Eiichi Shibusawa and his allies. In the same year, Tomoatsu Godai established Osaka Stock Exchange (OSE) in a commercial city in western Japan. Both TSE and OSE have contributed to driving sustainable growth in the Japanese economy.

Later, in 2013, Japan Exchange Group (JPX) was formed through a merger between TSE and OSE. After the merger, TSE focused on cash equity stock trading and OSE on financial derivatives trading.

In 2019, JPX acquired Tokyo Commodity Exchange (TOCOM), a commodity futures exchange, and made it a 100% subsidiary. Through this acquisition, JPX became a comprehensive exchange which offers cash equity, financial derivatives, and commodity derivatives trading.

The Prime Market is for companies which have large market capitalization (liquidity) enough to be investment

Under rapid innovation and global dynamics, JPX aims to

instruments for many institutional investors, keep a

evolve into a “total smart exchange”, where anyone can

higher quality of corporate governance, and commit to

trade any products in a secure and easy way. JPX will also

sustainable growth and improvement of medium- to

make a more active contribution to building a sustainable

long-term corporate value, putting constructive dialogue

society.

03 8 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

5) CONTRIBUTING TO THE SDGS It is JPX’s corporate philosophy to contribute to the realization of an affluent society through sustainable market development, and by extension, contribute to the future envisioned in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

JPX as a whole works to promote and to support ESG investment; for example, TSE calculates ESG indices, lists ESG-related ETFs, and has set up an infrastructure fund market and an information disclosure platform for green and social bonds. And of course, JPX is endeavoring to enhance its own ESG disclosures.

Moreover, to combat climate change, JPX has pledged to switch 100% of electricity consumed by the Group to renewable energy by FY2024 and aim for carbon neutrality across Group companies on the same timeline.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 03 9

0 4 0 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Euro Exim Bank and how to thrive in uncertain times We live in uncertain times. Whilst the devastating effects

based business model to assist this under-serviced

of the pandemic have been seen across all economies and

sector through digitalisation of processes, requirement

are well documented, forecasts are predicting a staged

for appropriate collateral, fast on-boarding and issuance,

recovery and evidence already showing a return to pre-

cost-effective pricing, all underpinned by a blockchain

covid trade levels. The way we conduct business, where,

supported trade platform.

when, if and how safely we may travel with complex evolving quarantine rules remains challenging.

Our core business remains the issuance and relay of a growing array of trade finance instruments, namely

We are not out of the woods yet. Reliance on silos of

letters of credit, standbys, performance bonds and

technology, shortage of liquidity, extra paperwork

guarantees merchant accounts and immutable payment

at customs, export bans, foreign exchange cost and

delivery using RippleNet products and services.

fluctuation, retail group failures and general confidence continue to affect international supply chains.

Through the Ripple xCurrent application, the bank tracks real-time payments accurately and effectively,

Far from eradicating Covid, current thinking supports

without complexity, delays or cost of multiple routing

living with variants, with constant vigilance. Companies

paths. The additional On-Demand Liquidity (ODL)

still need to maintain all important cash-flow, with

services help clients gain unlimited, low-cost access to

challenges of huge rises in container and transport

liquidity, retaining local currency control, throughout

costs, staff shortages and rising trade overheads leaving

the transaction lifecycle. The XRP digital asset provides

smaller margins and economic strain. To remain globally

guaranteed exchange rates and blockchain based

competitive, importers are having to absorb costs rather

immutability with frictionless transfer and settlement.

than passing them to end consumers, although how long this may be sustained remains questionable.

Today, EEB’s network of agents and partners spans across almost 30 countries and is witnessing a huge increase in

However, confidence is growing, and industries and

the volume, variety and value of transactions.

economies will bounce back. We stand ready to service the huge Tier 2-3 SME and corporate market, supporting

Major banks have traditionally been the mainstay for

the re-vitalising of business and supply chains through

trade finance business, dealing with high value, high

our innovative product set especially in emerging markets

volume business, funding lucrative corporate and

hit by lack of liquidity, trust and experience.

Government-led infrastructure projects.

As a supervised and authorized financial institution, under

However, we have witnessed increased lack of trust,

the robust, respected f ramework and oversight of our

complexity of smaller deals, protectionism, tariffs,

St. Lucia regulator, Euro Exim Bank (EEB) is a renowned,

limitations on liquidity, expensive access to fiat currencies

specialist company similarly exercising strong compliance

such as dollars, constant regulatory pressure, risk

and due diligence in all business dealings.

mitigation and reduced appetite to deal with smaller entities and trade values.

We have purposefully created a digitised technology-

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 041

0 42 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

As large players redirect their cost bases and resources,

Our professional team of speakers have been able to

away from emerging markets in Africa and Asia, the

discuss key topics at GTR, TXF, Caribbean Association of

path has become clearer for smaller niche providers such

Banks, Ripple and other key financial conferences.

as EEB to service the millions of corporates and SME’s dependent on competing effectively and economically,

The team have also created information sharing

improving financial inclusion and providing the

campaigns through our website, and knowledge-sharing

opportunities to raise economies from debt.

videos. These break down the complexity of the trade sector and provide valuable insight to companies looking

Recognition and reputation are built on exceptional

to import for the first time, where local barriers make it

service, professionalism and flexibility. EEB is built on just

traditionally difficult to compete. The Bank offers varied

such cornerstones, with experience, trust, leadership,

banking services including guarantees for bids and

personal relationships, strong CSR policy, country

big budget tenders to contractors and exporters and is

expertise, speed of response, cost-effective instruments

certified to issue Bid Bonds, Retention Guarantees and

and continued contact and information sharing.

Tender Guarantees.

EEB serves clients in over 100 countries, assisting

Our articles, video conference appearance, panel

importers to fulfil their obligations in often challenging

discussions, opinions and experience are valued by

jurisdictions, regularly dealing with the ever-present

the trade community, culminating in international

complexity, burden, financial pressures and transport

recognition of our product innovation, service delivery and

issues in international trade.

strong executive support, resulting in numerous awards and citations.

The trade finance sector is f raught with risk, with a high incidence of failed transactions. Market demand has

Our brand has become instantly internationally

attracted untested short term profit seekers, keen to

recognized and we retain a leading position as key

exploit eager buyers where non-compliance, minimal

sponsor in conferences, with publications and video

checking, lax attention to regulation and artificially low

output providing not only information, but valued analysis

fees prove too attractive an opportunity for cash-strapped

and access to experienced professionals.

importers to resist.

This year will also see contributions regarding trade issues We are increasingly approached by buyers who seek

through television networks as we outline the challenges

secure, trusted services, having experienced significant

and opportunities in the sector and raise market

financial losses f rom dealing with unscrupulous

awareness of our world class products and services.

companies offering unrealistic fees, hiding behind cloned f raudulent websites and ultimately operating with a

With our thought leaders, speed of turnaround,

complex web of deception.

employment of the latest technology (blockchain and Ai), competitive issuance rates, close relationship with clients

Our team have years of experience in financial markets

and growing global presence we are moving swiftly

and have contributed to major financial publications on

towards our goal of being the pre-eminent “go-to” bank

topics such as impacts of Free Trade Agreements, the

for trade.

opportunities in Af rica as alternative markets, emerging market liquidity, resolving the stifling of international through sanctions, and innovative payment solutions for emerging economies.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 043

0 4 4 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

The Association of Independent Asset Managers Singapore Launches Rebrand In Conjunction with 10th Anniversary The Association of Independent Asset Managers Singapore, the representative industry body for External Asset Managers and Multi-Family Offices in Singapore, today announced its rebrand to the Association of Independent Wealth Managers (Singapore).

Established in 2011, the Association has built a diverse, collaborative community of over 80 active member firms from leading banks, external asset managers, family offices and service providers in Singapore.

Coinciding with the Association’s 10th anniversary this year, the rebranding initiative reflects the Association’s commitment to promote the growth of Singapore’s independent wealth management industry, and better represent the distinct interests and work of AIWM Singapore’s members, which focuses more holistically on wealth management. In addition to advising on investments and asset allocation, members examine a client’s overall financial situation to achieve the objectives of long-term wealth preservation and accumulation, and it often encompasses services such as legacy, estate and retirement planning. As part of the rebrand, AIWM Singapore unveiled a new logo, video and website (http://aiwm.sg/).

Commenting on the rebrand, Lucie Hulme, President, AIWM Singapore said: “This nuanced change reflects the growth and evolution of the Association since its inception in 2011, and it will make us more inclusive and representative of a thriving community of independent wealth managers, external asset managers and multi-family offices in Singapore. We took this opportunity to rethink not just the Association’s name, but our entire brand promise to make us a better fit for the future in a wealth landscape that has evolved far beyond asset or fund management alone. This will also put us in a stronger position to drive the long-term growth of Singapore’s independent wealth management ecosystem.”

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 045

0 4 6 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

steadily increasing in Singapore and the rapid growth

ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT WEALTH MANAGERS (SINGAPORE)

in Asia’s private wealth in recent years has created a

Established in 2011, the Association of Independent

favourable backdrop for the continued expansion of the

Wealth Managers (Singapore) is the representative

independent wealth management industry. As investors

industry body for External Asset Managers and Multi-

reassess their investment priorities and objectives in the

Family Offices in Singapore. Recognised by the Monetary

post-pandemic environment, this is a timely opportunity

Authority of Singapore, it is a diverse and consultative

for us to raise awareness about the role of independent

trade association that drives the development of

wealth managers in meeting the evolving needs of

Singapore’s independent wealth management industry.

“The number of independent wealth managers has been

new and affluent investors, open to different models of wealth management,” Jolene Tan, Vice President, AIWM

As the leading industry advocate for independent wealth

Singapore added.

managers, AIWM Singapore actively promotes dialogue and engagement between regulators and various

AIWM Singapore is committed to championing best

stakeholders within the community.

industry practices, fostering collaboration among industry peers and empowering members through continuous

AIWM Singapore is also committed to championing

education and training development. To learn more about

best industry practices, strengthening the visibility and

the Association’s upcoming events, activities, and training

reputation of independent wealth managers, fostering

opportunities, please visit: https://www.aiwm.sg/events-

collaboration among industry peers, and empowering

aiwm/

members through continuous education, training development and networking opportunities.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 047

0 4 8 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Meet The New Mini Electric Collection The new MINI Electric welcomes a new edition: the MINI Electric Collection. Created as the ‘Designers Choice’ from MINI, the Collection is a truly unique MINI Electric.

Coming with a fixed standard specification apart from an exterior colour personalisation option, the new MINI Electric Collection is based on the Level 3 and includes some unique features such as the 17” Electric Collection Spoke alloy wheels and Collection exterior graphics. It’s also the only MINI Electric which includes the new exterior paint colours, perfectly partnered with the new multitone roof and Piano Black Exterior. The interior design complements the exterior of the car, thanks to sport seats upholstered with cloth/leatherette in Light Grey and Aluminium interior trim.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS In Addition To The New Mini Electric Level 3 Standard Equipment Personalisation No Additional Cost Exterior: • Island Blue metallic exterior paint colour • Multi-tone roof • Black mirror caps • 17” Electric Collection Spoke alloy wheels • Piano Black Exterior • Collection exterior graphics (Bonnet and doors)

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 49

0 50 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

INTERIOR: • Cloth/leatherette upholstery in • Light Grey • Anthracite headlining • Aluminium interior trim • Walknappa steering wheel with

EASY HOME CHARGING OR CHARGING ON THE GO The new MINI Electric includes AC for easy home and public charging and DC for rapid public charging. MINI Charging is your gateway to one of the world’s largest public charging networks. You will have access to more than 11,000 public charging points in the UK across a range of providers, using just one RFID card or via a mobile app. What’s more, your MINI Charging account is also valid across Europe. You can monitor your charging history directly from your account, and you can find MINI Charging locations via the MINI Charging App or on MINICharging.com MINI Charging also comprises a one-year free upgrade to include a bp pulse subscription package, offering discounted and preferential charging rates at bp pulse points (normally worth £7.85 per month).

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO OWN A NEW MINI ELECTRIC? FINANCIAL PERKS. The government currently offers £2,500* towards your new MINI Electric as it’s classed as a low-emission vehicle.

Plus, if you’re considering the new MINI Electric as your company car, it will have a BIK tax rate of 1% for the year 2021/22.

CHARGING COSTS. The cost per mile for the new MINI Electric is only 4p, which is approximately 2 to 4 times cheaper than cars with a petrol or a diesel engine

IDEAL FOR SHORTER OR LONGER JOURNEYS. Your life may evolve. Your schedules may vary. But the new MINI Electric will accommodate you for shorter or longer journeys.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 51

THE NEW

MINI ELECTRIC. BECAUSE WE LOVE TO FEEL ELECTRIC.

0 54 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Invest in Sharjah builds on robust plan to boost post-pandemic interest by global investors Invest in Sharjah CEO Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh explains how the entity is building on Sharjah’s notable 2020 performance by swiftly responding to the shifting needs of global investors While the global economy faced unemployment and

To mitigate the effects of the pandemic on the economy,

contraction of unprecedented proportions since the

the UAE approached the situation strategically by

onset of the Corornavirus pandemic, some countries

creating a $2.7 billion stimulus package for affected

including the UAE have been flexible enough to navigate

businesses. Sharjah created its own comprehensive

the troubled waters to adapt quickly to a fast-changing

$1.1 billion stimulus programme for all businesses, in

business environment.

the form of government subsidies, fee reductions, and tax exemptions. Invest in Sharjah was a key advisor to

The UAE proved its resilience by continuing to grow

businesses on how to utilise their stimulus allocations

through 2020 and early 2021 despite the COVID-19- crisis.

from the government, helping businesses renew licences and registrations remotely, facilitating government

Sharjah’s diverse economy, business-f riendly environment

approvals, and more. Loans were also facilitated through

and low operating costs were among the competitive

banks owned by the Sharjah government.

advantages that attracted 24 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects worth $220 million (AED 808.6 million)

“Startups and SMEs also received incentives through

in 2020, as per a WAVTEQ study. With tech-enabled

our free zones including reduced cost of establishing

businesses taking centrestage during the pandemic,

companies as well as renting warehouses and offices.

Sharjah pivoted to focus on sectors such as e-commerce,

In collaboration with Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center

health and medical research, and personal protective

(Sheraa), incentives were offered to companies from all

equipment, among others. This not only led to a 60

over the world to come and invest in Sharjah’s diverse

percent increase in the number of FDI projects between

sectors” Al Musharrkh added.

Q3 and Q4 last year, it also drove the creation of 1,117 new jobs in the emirate.

FACILITATING GREATER INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS SEVEN SECTORS

The role of Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), the

Al Musharrkh said: “Apart from the need to increase

emirate’s investment promotion agency, in boosting the

investment in future industries, 2020 taught us that we

emirate’s FDI profile remained pivotal. Through a wide

must focus on SMEs, start-ups and emerging innovation-

range of services and facilities, including a real-time

driven businesses which have a direct impact on

analysis of local markets, Invest in Sharjah helps investors

microeconomic indicators. We partnered with PwC to

identify suitable opportunities to establish or expand their

restructure our entire approach in terms of FDI attraction,

business.

revising our strategy for the sectors that Sharjah was set to focus on post-COVID-19.”

Speaking about the nation’s creditable performance, Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO, Invest in Sharjah,

Invest in Sharjah is now focused on seven sectors: health

said: “UAE has proved that it is not only resilient but also

and wellbeing, mobility and logistics, culture and tourism,

flexible, moving quickly to remove redundant regulations

agritech, green tech, human capital and innovation, and

and introduce new ones to adapt to the changing

advanced manufacturing.

economic scenario. This included the new commercial companies law that allow foreign companies and

“These are in alignment with the UAE’s overall strategy

investors up to 100% ownership, as well as new residency

and the sectors that UAE is focusing on. In terms of

laws allowing for long-term residence in the emirates.”

advanced manufacturing, the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology has recently announced

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 055

Inve st i n Sh arjah buil ds o n ro bust pl an to boost post-pa n d emic in terest by globa l investors

a comprehensive 10-year industrial strategy called

International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) are the two major free

‘Operation 300 Billion’ that aims to empower and

zones with focus on industry.

expand the industrial sector in the UAE by inviting global manufacturers to invest in the advanced manufacturing

The emirate has also developed free zones with non-

sector. We are also focused on the ‘Made in the UAE’

industrial focus to further support the growth and

programme that seeks to attract companies to the UAE

diversification of its economy. For instance, Sharjah

to manufacture and export to the whole world. The

Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) bonds

Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)

academia with industry and government to create a

in particular aims to attract different companies and

self-contained ecosystem that is home to companies

technology in manufacturing, 3D printing, blockchain,

across many sectors such as advanced industry, space,

and so on,” said the IIS CEO.

healthcare, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing, among others. Sharjah Publishing City Free

Elaborating on Sharjah’s focus on green energy in the

Zone, the world’s first free zone dedicated exclusively to

post-pandemic period, Al Musharrkh said: “Sharjah is

serving the global publishing and printing industry, has

eager to develop green technology through Bee’ah,

contributed immeasurably to growing the emirate into

one of the leading environmental companies with great

one of the biggest educational hubs in the Middle East.

ambitions in hydrogen energy and renewable energy.

The Sharjah Media City (Shams) is a tax-free zone with

Bee’ah is working on two vital programmes that can prove

modern infrastructure and services which focuses on the

to be game-changers. One is a project in collaboration

media and creative industries, while Sharjah Healthcare

with Masdar to produce energy from waste, and the other

City is a free zone dedicated to healthcare and healthcare-

is in partnership with Chinook, to produce hydrogen

related activities.

power, also f rom waste.”

“Sharjah enjoys one of the world-leading free zone

FOCUSING ON SUSTAINABLE GROWTH THROUGH SIX SPECIALISED FREE ZONES

infrastructures as each one offers a wide range of

Sharjah’s transformation into a modern investment

emirate also ranks high in terms of mobility, logistics

ecosystem has been aided in large part by its six f ree

and infrastructure, with three sea-ports, the Sharjah

zones that offer specialised focus on key industries such

International Airport, and the free zones in close proximity

as innovation and technology, publishing and media, and

to our ports and airport,” said Al Musharrkh.

education, among many others and this has led to joint ventures and partnerships with international investors for technology transfer in diverse fields.

industry-focused benefits and opportunities. The

SAEED TO AID IN SETTING UP A BUSINESS IN LESS THAN 60 MINUTES As the investment promotion office of Sharjah, Invest in

Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZ) and the Sharjah Airport

0 5 6 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Sharjah offers a wide range of services and facilities that

include the Sharjah Investors Services Centre (Saeed),

a smooth and transparent business set-up process.

to provide strategic and innovative solutions to support

These events also serve to provide us with feedback and

global as well as local investors.

suggestions from the business community which will not only help the public sector tailor the process according to

Al Musharrkh said: “Saeed is part of our endeavour to

their priorities, but also aid Sharjah to qualitatively build

boost foreign investors’ ease of entry into our markets. It

on its investor services,” said Al Musharrkh.

is a one-stop-shop offering fully-integrated government solutions that enable investors to establish their

In its capacity as the regional director of the MENA

businesses conveniently. Saeed is a fully tech-driven, one-

chapter of the World Association of Investment Promotion

window service that will help clients set up a business in

Agencies (WAIPA), Invest in Sharjah led a regional

less than 60 minutes.”

members’ meeting which provided a unique opportunity to learn from regional investment leaders about the

Apart f rom this, the entity’s Sharjah Investment Tracker is

approaches various organisations had been taking to

a game changer for investors. This plug-and-play website

overcome challenges posed by the pandemic.

publishes real time investment statistics of Sharjah and maps out the investment landscape in the emirate

The entity also organised a series of panel discussions

through analysing FDI flows.

and roundtables with a host of international investment and business leaders from South Korea, India, China,

KEEPING ABREAST OF DEVELOPMENTS GLOBALLY

USA, Austria, and Italy. Apart from exploring investment

To identify top challenges and keep abreast of

prospects and challenges, the events also showcased

development globally, Invest in Sharjah participated in 14

the success stories of foreign businesses which have

major local and international events and webinars in 2020,

expanded from Sharjah to the regional and global

covering a wide range of subjects across sectors including

markets.

real estate, technology, trade, entrepreneurship, industrial manufacturing, health-tech, agriculture and technology.

“I believe we are on the cusp of an even greater recovery, backed by Dubai Expo 2020, which the whole world

The entity also organised more than 11 virtual discussions

has been waiting for. FDI attraction and retention is

throughout the year to highlight high potential

part of the solution to support economic recovery and

investment opportunities to investors in key markets

we at Invest in Sharjah are dedicated to the continued

across the world.

transformation and economic diversification of the emirate and committed to guiding local and foreign

“Invest in Sharjah is keen on identifying the top

investors through a bespoke step-by-step facilitation

challenges in setting up business in the UAE and Sharjah,

process,” Al Musharrkh concluded.

and analysing facts to arrive at solutions that support

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 57

0 58 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Big 6: The Asian Stocks You Need to Buy Right Now Make the most out of your stock investments with these remarkable options.

The so-called “old world” has been the subject of fascinating and super interesting perspectives throughout history. Asia, without a doubt will reclaim the throne of the most influential and economically powerful area in the next 50 years; a crown that it used to have and is now seeking without any delays whatsoever.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 59

B ig 6: The Asian Stocks You N eed to Buy R igh t N ow

With rapid movements and solid growth, this mix

2. PINDUODUO INC

of emerging and developed markets holds plenty of

Pinduoduo Inc (NASDAQ: PDD) is an agritech company

opportunities within Asia. In turn, if you manage to

that operates mainly in China. Over the past few years,

become a specialist in the financial market within that

the company has made massive headway in a highly

region, you may surely find the rewards very quick.

competitive sector. Since its IPO in 2018, the firm also stands front and center when it comes to investing in

In order to get the most out of Asian stocks, it’s important

Asian stocks.

to learn about the latest macroeconomic trends.

Fortunately, that is not an impossible task to achieve,

By gamifying online discount deals, Pinduoduo Inc has

since we made a very comprehensive list for you to look

turned the whole notion of internet purchasing on its

upon. Here’s a summary of the top 6 Asian stocks you

head, but in a very remarkable way. Most recently, it

need to buy right now.

recorded upwards of 788 million users in 2020, leaving

1. SEA LIMITED

Alibaba’s 779 million figure in the dust.

Riding high on Q2 2021 results, Singapore’s Sea Limited

There has not been much difference for PDD year over

(NYSE: SE) has made its mark in the Asian stock sphere.

year. August 31, 2020 recorded a stock price of $89, with

Identifying as a consumer internet company, Sea Limited

the price going up to over $99 a year later. Nonetheless,

has become a tech conglomerate in the past few years.

stock value went up to nearly $196 in February 2021.

With expansion in markets such as India and the U.S., the

3. JD.COM

firm is making the most out of its products. Sea Limited’s

When it comes to Asian stocks investments, you cannot

Free Fire game recently ranked as the No. 1 grossing game

complete the list without mentioning JD.com (NASDAQ:

for Google Play in these markets. Whereas, its eCommerce

JD). As one of China’s leading tech conglomerates, JD.com

app Shopee became the No. 2 most downloaded app in

has its reach across various consumer and business fields.

Brazil.

The company’s success has continued over the past few years to establish further milestones.

When it comes to its recent growth, the company’s stock has more than doubled in value from a year ago. On

With JD.com’s continued growth, consistent expansion,

August 31, 2020, SE traded at a price of a little over $152. A

and breakthrough innovation, the company has become a

full year later, it stands at the price of over $353.36.

staple in Asian stock options. JD.com is also known for its

0 60 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

strength, where it surpasses many other stocks in terms of

that also holds its footing on various tech sectors, Alibaba

holding its price. This makes it an important asset to hold

needs no introduction.

for specialists and general investors alike.

Alibaba has grown year over year, which makes it a On August 31, 2020, JD traded at a price of over $78. A

surefire investment for anyone looking towards the Asian

complete year later, it traded at almost the same price.

market. Since the firm deals in both B2B and B2C sectors,

While JD.com’s stock reached the heights of $106 in

it also holds a multifaceted advantage. With several

February 2021.

opportunities for growth, the company stands apart as one of the most prominent options for international

4. COUPANG INC Based in South Korea, Coupang Inc (NYSE: CPNG) holds

investors.

the status of being the country’s largest eCommerce

6. NIO INC

platform. As a direct equivalent to Amazon and since its

NIO Inc (NYSE: NIO) is a Chinese automobile

NYSE debut in March 2021, it has stood out for those who

manufacturer. In a day and age where electric vehicles

want to invest in Asian stocks.

(EVs) reign supreme, the company’s EV offerings stand apart from the crowd. With popular operations across the

As a company, Coupang has recently gone through major

U.S., the U.K., and Germany, the firm has its hold across

milestones such as launching its grocery and food delivery

multiple continents.

divisions. The firm is banking on these initiatives so much that it noted its first write-down in 16 consecutively

NIO Inc has been consistent in terms of its scaling,

successful quarters. But those who believe in the power

which makes it a remarkable option for Asian stocks

of these programs hope for major improvements in the

investments. With its reliable operations and vast

future.

outreach, it is a very safe bet for investors of all kinds.

Coupang’s March 11, 2021 debut marked a stock price of

On August 31, 2020, NIO traded at a price of over $19. On

over $49. But it has since fallen to $29 as of August 31.

August 31, 2021, it continued with a price of over $39. This

However, this is just the first year of one of the biggest

marks the type of improvements that you may expect

IPOs of its kind. In addition to the newly launched

from a very promising project.

divisions, this makes Coupang a great Asian stocks investment. It’s especially true if you want to invest in

Many of these companies have shown great progress

alternatives to Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) or DoorDash

over recent months. But according to market watchers,

(NYSE: DASH).

this is just the start of their success stories. With various products or expansion plans in the near future, the sky’s

5. ALIBABA GROUP

the limit for these stocks. If you want to reap the rewards

If you want to start investing in Asian stocks, your portfolio

of investing in Asian stocks, these names need to be on

cannot be completed without China’s premier, Alibaba

your radar.

(NYSE: BABA). As China’s leading eCommerce company

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 6 1

E

WA

LA

D

US

TRANSP ORT

ENERG

WAS

TE

T ER

CLIMATE-ALIGNED BONDS & ISSUERS 2020

N

CLIMATE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

Y

AN PO

LLU

IC

D

T

T I O N CO NT R OL

BUIL DI

NG

S

Prepared by Climate Bonds Initiative.

Sponsored by DBS Bank.

Climate Investment Opportunities: Climate-Aligned Bonds & Issuers Climate Bonds Initiative

1

Report uncovers $913bn in ‘Hidden’ Sustainable Investment Opportunities

by Liam Jones REPORT DETAILS CLIMATE ALIGNED BONDS OUTSIDE THE LABELLED GREEN MARKET

The climate-aligned bond universe is about equally split

The Climate Investment Opportunities: Climate-Aligned

volume coming from supranational institutions. Asia-

Bonds & Issuers 2020 report provides a comprehensive

Pacific is the top region, accounting for USD436.6bn (48%)

analysis of the global unlabelled climate-aligned bond

brought to market by 183 climate-aligned issuers. Bonds

market, revealing investment opportunities that extend

from China represent the vast majority of issuance from

beyond the thematic bond market.

Asia-Pacific (74%), and 36% of the global total. Europe

between developed and emerging markets, with 1% of

ranks second in regions, accounting for USD321.3bn (35%), Climate-aligned investment opportunities extend well

with 121 issuers.

beyond the Green, Social and Sustainability (GSS) bond market. These are opportunities for climate-aligned

The ‘Transport’ climate theme dominates the climate-

issuers to refinance their business operations in the GSS

aligned universe, followed by Energy and Water. Railway

bond market and benefit f rom a broader investor base as

companies are the most widespread, accounting for

well as the extra visibility offered by the green label.

almost all the transport related climate-aligned volume.

Unlabelled instruments are difficult to identify, and labelling is an important signposting tool for investors.

These instruments are identified via a proprietary methodology developed by Climate Bonds and support for this publication was provided by DBS Bank.

UNLABELLED OPPORTUNITIES The report identifies over USD913bn from 420 climatealigned issuers based in 45 countries, an extraordinary volume; almost half the size of the labelled Green, Social and Sustainability (GSS) bond market, which reached a cumulative USD1.7tn in 2020.

Over 40% of the climate-aligned volume will mature in the short term, which raises opportunities for refinancing climate-aligned business operations in the GSS bond market. As many climate-aligned companies identified in the report have already issued labelled bonds, refinancing opportunities can contribute towards the expansion of the labelled bond universe.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 6 3

R e po rt uncove rs $91 3bn in ‘Hi d d en ’ Sustain ab le I nvestmen t Opportu n ities

AT A GLANCE - DEVELOPED MARKETS (DM) • DM account for USD464.8bn from 203 climate-aligned issuers spread across 21 countries • Europe is the largest source of climate-aligned

DECARBONISING HYDROGEN If the production of hydrogen fuel can be decarbonised cost-effectively, hydrogen can play a substantial role across the energy system. To reach widespread adoption

volumes with USD319bn from 112 issuers domiciled

of green/low-carbon hydrogen, public sector investment is

across 14 countries

required to provide the necessary infrastructure to attract private investment and drive down costs. Climate-aligned

• Transport sector leads climate-aligned opportunities in developed markets, followed by Energy and Water • France is the largest source of DM climate-aligned bonds; SNCF, EDF, Orange SA are the top issuers • More than half of the volume will mature within eight

companies, especially those in the Energy sector, are wellpositioned to raise finance for the development of green hydrogen activities and adapt business practices in light of the global transition towards carbon neutrality.

REAL ESTATE IS TRICKY

years, which shows huge potential for scaling-up the

Identifying the share of revenue streams associated with

labelled green bond market

highly energy-efficient green buildings is tricky. Industry certification schemes and metrics to quantify energy

AT A GLANCE - CHINA AND EMERGING MARKETS • China is the largest source of climate-aligned bonds, with USD325bn from 96 climate-aligned issuers • Asia-Pacific dominates EM issuance with 73% of volume, followed by Latin America at 24% • Energy is the top sector for climate-aligned opportunities, followed by transport and water • EM (excluding China) account for 14% of the global climate-aligned universe, with USD123.3bn issued by 121 climate-aligned issuers domiciled across 23 countries • South Korea is the largest source of EM climate-aligned bonds; Korea Electric Power Corporation, Indian Railway Finance Corporation and Korea Rail Network Authority are the top issuers • Almost half of the climate-aligned outstanding debt will mature in the short term, offering opportunities to scale up the EM GSS market, with an additional USD40bn (33%) maturing by 2029

0 64 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

efficiency and/or improvements vary substantially across building types and across countries, which makes it difficult to compare and evaluate the climate alignment of these companies.

Better and more standardised disclosure will help pinpoint climate-aligned investment opportunities to the investors. There is also considerable scope for real estate companies to use green finance tools to fund low-carbon real estate projects. Green bonds can demonstrate that an entity is developing a green building portfolio to limit its environmental footprint.

FUNDING LOW-CARBON VEHICLES Climate-aligned companies can help direct increased funding towards low-carbon vehicles. Despite the growth of investments in low-carbon mobility in recent years, substantial emissions reductions in the transport sector are still necessary to meet the 1.5°C target.

Climate-aligned universe

USD913.2bn

Buildings

Water

Waste Energy

Transport

ICT

Land use

Labelled universe

USD1.7tn

Pandemic

Transition SDGs Social

Green

Sustainability Climate Investment Opportunities: Climate-Aligned Bonds & Issuers Climate Bonds Initiative

4

THE LAST WORD

Expanding green and sustainable debt markets,

Increasing capital flows towards investments that address

increasing the depth and diversity of green bonds, loans

climate factors and contribute to reaching national

and sukuk, benefits both issuers and investors while

emissions targets must be amongst the priorities for

supporting low carbon economic development paths.

both policy makers and finance sector stakeholders in emerging economies.

Investors have an opportunity to make choices that respond directly to their ESG mandates, as well as protect

Identification of climate aligned bond issuers, moving

their portfolios against adverse risks coming from climate

some refinancing offers to the labelled market has

change. A closer focus on climate aligned corporations

a benefit greater than the individual issuance itself.

offers another pathway to assist in achieving these goals.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 6 5

0 66 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Climate action: a strategic imperative Jesper Tot Madsen. Key Publications Manager & Editor Phillip Edward Lewin, Communication Advisor & Editor

As expectations from customers, investors and employees intensify, climate action has become a strategic imperative for A.P. Moller - Maersk. The industry leader is stepping up efforts to decarbonise shipping with the first carbon-neutral vessel to hit the waters in 2023, seven years ahead of initial plan.

BOLD ACTION IS NEEDED NOW FOR AN IN-TIME TRANSITION Transport and logistics account for a considerable part of CO2 emissions globally with shipping alone accounting for 2-3 percent. A strong and clear regulatory framework is needed to guide liners towards the carbon neutral fuels that most effectively curbs emissions across the entire value chain.

A.P. Moller – Maersk agrees with the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report that, it is very important to emphasize all greenhouse gases, not just CO2, and we believe it is key they are addressed from a life cycle perspective with a view on both the 20 year and 100 year Global Warming Potential (GWP).

ENERGY TRANSITION, STILL A MAYOR CHALLENGE “Fossil fuels remain easily available, reliable, and cheap. Governments must regulate and incentivize shipowners, operators, and fuel providers, so that investments in new fuels and technology are prioritized,” emphasizes Morten Bo, Head of decarbonization at Maersk..

In that sense, Maersk supports a Market Based Measure of a sufficient price level as to cover most of the competitiveness gap between fossil and renewable fuels. We estimate that this gap is of at least at least 150 USD per ton CO2 in the medium term at current oil price.

There remain many unknowns and complexities to decarbonising supply chains, however it is evident that very good solutions are already available today that can have an immediate impact in the shipping industry. Alcohols (methanol and ethanol), alcohol-lignin blends and ammonia are Maersk´s main candidates for now – amongst others due to cost and scalability potential.

Maersk does not believe in transition fuels to get to zero. The global integrator of container logistics does not see LNG as a viable solution for the Maersk fleet.

They want to leapfrog directly to carbon neutral fuels such as Green Methanol, for which the technology is already proven and available.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 67

C limate action: a strategic imperative

Decarbonisation In 2020, customer uptake of Maersk ECO delivery shipping exceeded our expectations

1

We have defined four priority future fuels – the challenge is scale

We have reduced our relative CO2 emissions by over 46% since 2008

Our 2050 net zero ambition for shipping is a challenging target, but clearly possible to reach

2018

2019

2023

2030

2050

Year of launching our carbon neutral ambition

ECO delivery introduction

World’s first Carbon neutral liner In operation

60% relative CO2 reduction from shipping

Net zero CO2 emissions

Maersk Decarbonisation Presentation

“It is still too early to say which candidate fuels will come

It is still too early to say which candidate fuels will come to

to dominate, and it is also likely that several fuels will

dominate, and it is also likely that several fuels will reach

reach significant scale as shipping fuels. Key deciding

significant scale as shipping fuels. Key deciding factors

factors include availability, price levels, fuel sustainability,

include availability, price levels, fuel sustainability, and

and safety in operation,” explains Ole Graa Jakobsen, Head

safety in operation.

of Fleet Management at A.P. Moller – Maersk A key collaboration partner is the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller

RAISING AMBITIONS

Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, an independent, non-

In 2020, Maersk has fully integrated its sustainability

profit research and development center that works across

priorities into the business strategy, adopting an

sectors, organisations, research areas and regulators to

integrated approach that fits the strategy and

accelerate the development of new energy systems and

transformation towards one company and matches

fuel technologies.

expectations from stakeholders.

To drive efforts within Maersk, a new Decarbonisation Ambitions have been reassessed and elevated, most

Function was launched in January 2021, tasked with

notably with the world’s first liner vessel operating on

ensuring collaboration across commercial, operational,

carbon-neutral biomethanol to hit the waters in 2023,

technological, and corporate entities. With the new setup,

seven years ahead of the original schedule. In addition, all

decarbonisation will be an even stronger strategic priority

newly built, Maersk-owned vessels will be able to operate

across the business.

on green fuel.

As part of this effort, Maersk continues to work towards By achieving this, Maersk will be able to pilot a scalable,

net-zero emissions from its ocean activities in 2050 as well

carbon-neutral solution to customers and incentivise

as a 60% relative reduction in emissions from shipping by

manufacturers to scale the production of new, sustainable

2030, compared to 2008.

fuels. In other words, create a market that does not exist yet.

SOLVING THE CHALLENGE TOGETHER While expectations and ambitions continue to rise, the

“Pioneering this technology, it will be a significant

green transition of the global transport and logistics

challenge to source an adequate supply of proper carbon-

industry remains a monumental challenge. As Maersk

neutral methanol within this timeline. Our success relies

grows its logistics presence on land, the company is

on customers to embrace this groundbreaking product as

investigating how to expand its net-zero ambition to cover

well as fuel suppliers, technology partners and developers

its full operations across the supply chain.

to ramp up production fast enough,” says Henriette Hallberg Thygesen, CEO of Fleet & Strategic Brands, A.P. Moller - Maersk.

0 68 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

At the same time, the wider industry is coming together to develop carbon-neutral fuels, vessels and products. This poses challenges creating the right inf rastructure and supply of new fuels at scale, while ensuring that f ramework conditions and regulations reinforce a level playing field that also awards early movers.

Through forums such as the Getting to Zero Coalition and Clean Cargo, the industry’s key players are leading by example to solve the challenges together and inspire the rest of the value chain to.

Although the task ahead is excessive, it is clear when we look to the future that this does not just pose challenges. It also brings along opportunities that businesses, customers and decision makers must seize. As an integrated logistics and transport company, A.P Moller- Maersk is ready to do its part. The company has actually embarked on a journey to create a change that they believe is both responsible and the right path for the company, its customers and not least for the planet.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 6 9

070 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

EBRD launches Energy Compact for its urban sustainability programme

By Vanora Bennett The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is launching its own Energy Compact to support the energy transition, focussed on investments within its flagship urban sustainability programme, EBRD Green Cities. The Compact is a response to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which aims to provide clean and affordable energy for all.

Under this pledge, the EBRD commits itself to almost double investments in EBRD Green Cities’ priority investments to around €1.9 billion by end-2023 from €1,011 million as of August 2021. In the same period, the number of Green City Action Plans – the plans each city draws up after joining the programme, identifying priority environmental issues to address – is to rise to 50 from 19 currently completed.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 07 1

072 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

On Friday in New York, the UN is hosting a High-Level Dialogue on Energy, whose outcomes will include a global roadmap towards the achievements of SDG 7 by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050, as well as a series of Energy Compacts from member states and non-state actors such as the EBRD. The Dialogue is preceded by three days of multi-stakeholder pre-summit events.

Nandita Parshad, Managing Director, Sustainable Infrastructure Group, EBRD, announced the EBRD Energy Compact for Green Cities at a Wednesday event and stressed the importance of the focus on energy: “When it comes to addressing the climate emergency, cities must be front and centre: they account for over 70 per cent of global emissions, and the megatrend towards urbanization especially in the developing world, will place even more focus – quite rightly so – on the need for clean air, decarbonised urban transportation, and green and reliable energy access for all.”

With cities growing but their leaders aware of the need to slow the pace of climate change, a key task for planners is to work out how to provide energy to expanding urban populations without aggravating climate problems or worsening air quality. This applies particularly to cities around the EBRD regions – central and eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the southern and eastern Mediterranean.

The numerous challenges they face include insufficient infrastructure investment, demographic changes and poor air quality, all linked to a historical legacy of high energy and carbon intensity.

Solving these problems in a multi-faceted way was the inspiration behind the EBRD Green Cities programme, set up in 2016, which aims to help cities identify, prioritise and tackle these urban challenges to create more sustainable living spaces. It has proved so popular that, in its first five years, it has grown to include 49 cities.

The EBRD Energy Compact is based on the flagship EBRD Green Cities programme designed to introduce bottomup planning through Green Cities Action Plans for green priority investments for cities. These include planning and financing aimed at forwarding SDG7, such as improving energy efficiency in buildings, supporting green urban mobility, water, waste management and digitalisation of city services.

The annual impact of Green Cities investments already translates into significant energy savings, estimated to be 2.4 million Gigajoules annually.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 073

074 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Ready, jet, go: Virgin Atlantic expands its Caribbean offering with new services from Edinburgh to Barbados, Manchester to Montego Bay, and a return to St Lucia I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 075

076 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Edinburgh, Scotland’s only service to the Caribbean,

GORDON DEWAR, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF EDINBURGH AIRPORT, SAID;

five flights per week from Manchester and 11 flights per

“A premier city like Edinburgh deserves premier airlines

week from Heathrow

and we are extremely excited to welcome our newest

• 70% increase in Barbados flying with a new route from

• Seasonal winter services flying three times a week f rom London Heathrow to St Lucia commence on 18th December • Launch of three flights per week from Manchester Airport to Montego Bay on 6th November

partner Virgin Atlantic to Scotland’s capital city.

“To be able to deliver flights to Barbados, Scotland’s only direct route to the Caribbean, and Orlando is a fantastic boost to us as we prepare for the post-Covid recovery, and it is a huge show of confidence in Edinburgh Airport’s ability to deliver for passengers across the country.

To demonstrate its continued commitment to the region, and to meet an increase in customer demand, Virgin Atlantic has announced a significant expansion to its Caribbean portfolio. For the first time, it will fly to the idyllic island of Barbados f rom Edinburgh Airport, providing Scotland’s only direct gateway to the Caribbean.

The new route marks the first time Virgin Atlantic has flown international flights f rom the Scottish capital in its 37-year history. The airline is also delighted to be returning to the beautiful island of St Lucia, flying from London Heathrow, whilst there will be new services from Manchester to vibrant Montego Bay, Jamaica.

As travel restrictions begin to ease, the new services aim to respond to the pent-up demand f rom consumers looking to head off on a relaxing holiday to a sunny Caribbean destination. The routes will complement Virgin Atlantic’s recently announced Heathrow to Bahamas service, which launches on 19th November and the launch of Europe’s only service direct to the gorgeous St Vincent and the Grenadines on 13th October 2021.

JUHA JARVINEN, CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER AT VIRGIN ATLANTIC, COMMENTED, “The Caribbean is such an important destination for us and for our customers and we couldn’t be more excited to announce our new routes, as we continue to grow our ever-expanding portfolio.

“We know customers are keen to get away on their next adventure after a challenging year and these Caribbean destinations offer the perfect escape for those travellers looking to either simply relax or explore a new corner of the world.

“For customers based around the UK, we are also thrilled to be able to offer additional routes f rom both Edinburgh and Manchester. Commencing international flights from Edinburgh marks an exciting new chapter and I know our

“We look forward to the new routes launching and watching passengers head off on the holiday of a lifetime from Edinburgh Airport with Virgin Atlantic.”

STUNNING ST LUCIA With the spectacular landscape of the Pitons set against the backdrop of the lush rainforest and the stunning Caribbean Sea, St Lucia is undoubtedly one of the Caribbean’s most romantic islands. Virgin Atlantic is delighted to start a new seasonal winter service operating three times a week starting from 18th December 2021 on the airline’s A330-300 aircraft boasting 31 Upper Class, 48 Premium and 185 Economy Delight, Classic and Light seats. Services will go on sale from 18th August 2021 with return Economy flights starting from £462 per person.

BAGPIPES TO BARBADOS Virgin Atlantic has a new home in Scotland. Launching on the 5th December and on sale from 18th August, Edinburgh’s new Caribbean flights will operate twice weekly on an Airbus A330. Fares will start from as little as £419 per person. The airline will also fly twice weekly to Orlando, Florida from April 2022. As the gateway to the highlands, the new services from Edinburgh Airport will provide travellers from Florida and the Caribbean with a direct link to Scotland’s fascinating historic capital city, alongside easy access to the country’s dramatic, world-famous countryside. Similarly, Barbados offers easy onward connections to the wider Caribbean, with seamless links to Grenada, St Vincent and Tobago available with Virgin Atlantic.

As well as flying customers, Virgin Atlantic will offer a fast, efficient cargo service, enriching the global supply chain and presenting new opportunities for companies looking to export and import famous Scottish goods, such as whisky and smoked salmon, between Scotland and the Caribbean.

teams can’t wait to show Edinburgh the famous Virgin Atlantic spirit and flair.”

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 077

E B RD launches E nergy Compact for its urban sustainability programme

JAMMIN’ IN JAMAICA

seats. Services will go on sale with return Economy flights

Home of rhythm and sway, Jamaica boasts luscious

starting from £713 per person.

rainforest, stunning beaches, and a unique culture. It is a land of activities, breath-taking landscapes, and warm,

From 31st October, Virgin Atlantic will increase its services

welcoming locals, making the island a haven of sight and

to the much-loved island of Barbados. Flights from

sound. Virgin Atlantic will launch thrice-weekly seasonal

Manchester to Barbados will increase from three times a

winter services from Manchester Airport commencing

week to five times and from Heathrow, daily flights will

on 6th November on the airline’s Airbus A330-300 aircraft

increase to 11 times a week. Virgin Atlantic will also be

boasting 31 Upper Class, 48 Premium and 185 Economy

increasing its Heathrow services to Jamaica, from three

Delight, Classic and Light seats. Services will go on sale

flights up to daily.

f rom 18th August 2021 with return Economy flights starting f rom £428 per person.

In addition to its Caribbean expansion, Virgin Atlantic is also expanding its portfolio in Hong Kong and India.

IT’S BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS With 16 major islands surrounded by the world’s clearest waters, the Bahamas is an unrivalled destination boasting beautiful white sand beaches, sailing adventures, fishing and diving as well Exuma’s world-famous swimming pigs!

Virgin Atlantic will launch twice-weekly services f rom London Heathrow commencing on 20th November on the airline’s Boeing 787-9 aircraft boasting 31 Upper Class, 35 Premium and 192 Economy Delight, Classic and Light

078 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

For the remainder of August, the airline’s Mumbai route will operate on an A350, the largest in the airline’s fleet, which will increase capacity by 30%. Meanwhile from September, capacity to Hong Kong will rise by 80%, with 4 additional weekly flights and an A350 operating the route.

For further information or to book please visit www. virginatlantic.com

T H E WO R L D S L E A D I N G F I N E W I N E G R O U P

OENO GROUP IS PROUD TO RECEIVE THE AWARD FOR BEST GLOBAL WINE INVESTMENT FIRM 2021

LON D ON

|

NE W YO R K

OENOGROUP.COM

|

M ADRID

|

TUSCANY

@OENO

|

B O RDEAUX

|

MUNI C H

@OENO_OFFICIAL

0 80 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

Sustainable Finance Soars in North America: ReporT

by Liam Jones AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH AT 76% AS GREENIUM STILL APPARENT IN NORTH AMERICA Climate Bonds has released the North America State of the Market report, revealing the remarkable growth of green finance in the US and Canada.

This report is Climate Bonds’ first stand-alone State of the Market for the North America, encompassing established green markets and a first of its kind analysis of the expanding social and sustainability bond labels, support was provided by Moody’s ESG Solutions and Amundi Asset Management.

LABELLED MARKETS TAKE ROOT Reaching a cumulative USD311bn at the end of Q1 2021, North America has seen 6,000 instruments issued under Green, Social and Sustainability (GSS) labels since 2011. The majority of issuance is from the well-established green label with volume reaching USD271.4bn. Sustainability bonds hit a volume of USD24.3bn and social bonds reached USD15.5bn, both labels are in their infancy but growing quickly.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 81

Sustainable Finance Soars in N orth America : R eporT

In the 5-years (2016-2020), the North American GSS

describing themselves as green. In the immediate

market grew by an astonishing 76% year-on-year average

secondary market, green bonds tended to tighten by a

and by 10% for the first 3 months of 2021. The US is the

greater magnitude than vanilla equivalents and matched

second-largest source of cumulative GSS debt globally

indices after 28 days. This suggests that green bonds offer

(behind supranational issuance) and the largest single

value to both issuers and investors.

country, while Canada ranks eleventh overall, and is the tenth-largest country.

AT A GLANCE: US In the 5 years between 2016-2020, the US GSS market grew by an average of 72% a year and by 11% in the first 3 months of 2021.

Cumulative market totals are as follows: Green USD241.4bn, Social USD14bn, Sustainability USD21bn.

The market has several unique features, including the large volume of green Mortgaged Backed Securities (MBS) from Fannie Mae, which accounts for 39% of overall issuance, without which the US would fall behind China and France in national rankings. Green US Municipal bonds issued by local government authorities and government-backed entities make up 23% of the total volume.

The US GSS market remains largely characterised by numerous small deals, or tranches, mainly from municipal issuers which are mostly purchased by domestic retail or institutional investors.

The US social bond market is still in its infancy and the private sector has dominated issuance to date, but there is huge potential for the state sector to contribute to

GREENIUM Between 2016 and December 2020, there were eight qualifying bonds originating f rom issuers based in Canada and 48 f rom the US. The analysis shows that green bonds f rom the US and Canada attract larger book cover and achieve greater spread compression compared to vanilla equivalents.

Three-quarters of green bonds achieved a greenium and around half of green bonds were allocated to investors

0 82 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

the growth of this market. The Biden administration’s emphasis on addressing social inequalities is expected to result in further development of this market.

The US sustainability bond market was opened in 2016 with Starbucks issuing a pair of bonds worth USD1.25bn. In 2019, new bonds totalled USD1.9bn and later in 2020, there was a dramatic increase that led to an extra USD12bn of bonds. 2021 began in a similar vein, with new bonds worth USD3.9bn having been issued by the end of Q1.

Strengthening reporting standards will ensure greater confidence and transparency in labelled markets. The US was found to be one of only four countries with postissuance reporting below 80% and more than USD1bn issued, in a recent Climate Bonds report.

AT A GLANCE: CANADA

OUTLOOK • The US must lead Sovereign GSS debt. Multiple countries have already taken the plunge, and Canada has stated its intention to come to the market in 2021.

• A broader range of Canadian and American GSS bond issuers will create a more diverse investment

In the 3-years 2018-2020 the Canadian GSS market grew

pool, thereby enabling more high-profile investors to

by an average of 70% year-on-year and the first 3 months

participate in this market.

of 2021 saw 8% growth. The green finance total sits at USD30bn, the social finance total is USD1.5bn, and the sustainability total is USD3.3bn.

• Clear transition pathways will enable issuers from a broader range of sectors to be active in the North American GSS bond market.

• Benchmark-sized, labelled deals create critical mass and encourage investors with dedicated mandates to drive policy change. More large bonds are needed to bring scale to the North American GSS bond market.

• Repeat issuance introduces economies of scale for both issuers and investors. Entities who have issued GSS bonds should return to the market regularly.

• Clear, accessible, and consistent pre-and post-issuance reporting will support investor confidence in the credibility of the GSS themes.

The Canadian market is populated by larger deals compared to the US, with an average size of USD366m.

Larger deals help attract a broader range of international investors, which was also reflected in the fact that Canadian GSS bonds had been issued in six currencies.

Since the inception of the Canadian green bond market in 2014, the market has been dominated by financial corporates and local governments every year, except for 2015. The social and sustainability themes like the US, are in the early stages of development, with 15 bonds issued by the end of Q1 2021, cumulatively worth USD4.8bn.

CLIMATE TRANSITION IN THE FINANCIAL AND REAL ECONOMY The US and Canada have recently introduced economywide emissions reduction targets at the highest levels of government, as well as publicly reaffirming their commitment to work together on emissions reductions.

THE LAST WORD The US campaign to tackle climate change is being revived through major policy commitments which are poised to send sustainable debt skyward. We hope the US joins the ranks of other sovereign GSS issuers like its close neighbour in the north, a move that’s proven to bolster domestic sustainable debt markets and also, demonstrates real climate intent.

Sean Kidney, CEO, Climate Bonds Initiative: “The USA has led national green bond rankings for several years, however, significant upside potential and unmet demand remains, in both the municipal and corporate markets.

This demand will only grow as large investors continue to seek sustainable investment opportunities, align towards emissions reduction goals and reduce long-term carbon exposure in their portfolios.”

Due to a continued reliance on fossil fuels to power much of their economies, there is a need for the public as well as private sector to transition to low-carbon energy systems.

Labelled bonds present an opportunity to finance transitions that require companies to drastically change their business models.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 83

International I nvestor Awards Winners 2021

International Investor Awards Winners 2021 COVID-19 change the way businesses work, the investment community had to take a step further and reinvent in many ways. In order to recognise the effort behind every individual and company during this time, we selected champions f rom a wide range of businesses.

The awards are open to any business, large, mid-size or small, established or start-up, provided they display first rate service, opportunity, innovation and performance.

The following pages celebrate organisations that drive forward the world of international business and investment.

0 84 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

AL BARAKA BANKING GROUP

CAYE INTERNATIONAL BANK

LUIGI WEWEGE

Best Banking Group // MENA 2021, Excellence in Corporate Governance // Bahrain 2021

Best Offshore Bank // CARICOM 2021

Private Banker of The Year // CARICOM 2021

Caye’s history begins in 1996 as a Belizean

Luigi Wewege is the Senior Vice President,

mortgage company, and after continued

and Head of Private Banking of Belize,

success over several years, became an

Central America based Caye International

international bank on September the 29th,

Bank, published author of The Digital

2003. Caye is now the only International

Banking Revolution - now in its third

Bank headquartered on the beautiful

edition, has co-authored economic

island of Ambergris Caye in Belize, Central

research which was presented before the

America. Our bank license permits us

United States Congress and currently

to conduct financial services with both

serves as an Instructor at the FinTech

individuals and corporations located

School in California. He holds an Italian

outside of Belize.

Master of Business

We offer a full range of traditional and

Administration with a major in

non-traditional banking services and

International Business, as well as a

accounts in multiple currencies. An

BSBA with a triple major in Finance,

application for account opening is a

International Business, and Management

simple process and can be facilitated

from the University of Missouri - St. Louis.

Al Baraka Banking Group B.S.C. (“ABG”) is licensed as an Islamic wholesale bank by the Central Bank of Bahrain and is listed on Bahrain Bourse and NasdaqDubai. It is a leading international Islamic banking group providing its unique services in countries with a population totaling around one billion.

The Group has a wide geographical presence in the form of subsidiary banking units and representative offices in 17 countries, which in turn provide their services through around 700 branches.

Al Baraka Banking Group has operations in Jordan, Egypt, Tunis, Bahrain, Sudan, Turkey, South Af rica, Algeria, Pakistan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Morocco

online f rom anywhere in the world.

and Germany, in addition two branches in Iraq and two representative offices in Indonesia and Libya.

ABG and its Units offer retail, corporate, treasury and investment banking services, strictly in accordance with the principles of the Islamic Shari’a. The authorized capital of ABG is US$ 2.5 billion.

S&P Global Ratings has affirmed its ‘BB-/B’ long- and short-term ratings on Al Baraka Banking Group B.S.C (ABG) on 8 July 2021, while it revised its outlook on ABG to negative f rom stable.

ABG has also been rated BBB+ (long term) / A3 (short term) by Islamic International Rating Agency (IIRA). IIRA has also rated ABG on the national scale at A+ (bh) / A2 (bh) with a fiduciary score of 81-85, the highest level amongst Islamic Financial Institutions in the region.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 85

International I nvestor Awards Winners 2021

EURO EXIM BANK

LOM

KOTRA

Most Innovative Global Trade Services Bank // 2021

Best Comprehensive Offshore Financial Services // 2021

Investment Promotion Agency of The Year // Asia 2021

Euro Exim Bank Ltd, is a regulated,

For almost 30 years the award-winning

Invest KOREA (IK) is the Korean national

supervised bank, authorised with a Class

LOM Financial Group has provided

investment promotion agency under

‘A’ international banking license f rom the

brokerage, custody, asset management

the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion

Financial Services Regulatory Authority

and corporate finance services to

Agency (KOTRA) that supports foreign

of St. Lucia (FSRA), and a proud member

individuals and institutional clients around

companies doing business in Korea.

of the Caribbean Association of Banks

the world. Headquartered in Bermuda,

(CAB) and the International Chamber of

with offices in Bahamas, Grand Cayman

IK provides information to potential

Commerce (ICC).

and the UK, LOM truly has a global

investors abroad regarding investment in

presence.

Korea as well as comprehensive services

We are an innovative financial institution

to foreign companies ranging from

serving registered SME’s and corporates

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

consultation, support for establishing

engaged in import and export

Customised investment strategies are our

corporations and business activities, and

businesses, facilitating authenticated

specialty. By leveraging our international

complaint handling.

trade finance instructions around the

offices, private bankers, and highly

globe. Geographical presence St. Lucia

qualified Chartered Financial Analysts

In our 36 overseas offices, we have

office is our registered Headquarters,

(CFAs), we facilitate clients’ investment

specialists consisting of KOTRA employees,

managing regulatory reporting, audit,

needs f rom the jurisdictions in which they

public officials dispatched from related

providing compliance checks. With local

are located, and offer a range of products

government ministries and agencies, and

staff, a resident director and MLRO there,

designed to meet individual investment

private sector experts to support your

activity includes overseeing the fitness

objectives. Our products include award

successful business in Korea.

and supervisory health of the company

winning 5 star Morningstar rated mutual

including management approvals for all

funds.

transactions.

THE LOM METHOD We also have a registered Representative

Our in-house portfolio managers, private

Office in London, and work with a

advisors and trading professionals ensure

developing network of agents and

excellent execution of your investment

partners support local buyers for full trade

strategy. We take security and privacy

service offerings in multiple jurisdictions.

seriously, going to great lengths to

Back-office software development and

safeguard client assets and information

additional processes are managed in

f rom the minute you are accepted as a

Chennai, with further agents and partners

client.

in 30 countries, including UAE, India, Malaysia, Zambia, USA, South Africa,

BUILDING A LEGACY TO LAST

specifically to serve the markets and

Our primary concern is meeting your

opportunities across the

needs, with an eye to growing and

Af rica and Asia continents.

preserving your capital. At LOM we know it’s not just your portfolio’s performance that matters, it’s what your portfolio can do for you and your family. It’s our aim to help our clients build a lasting legacy.

0 86 | I N T E R N AT I ON AL INVE STO R MAGAZ INE

SAWARI VENTURES

SEDCO CAPITAL

Founder and Chairman of Sawari Ventures,

Best Ethical Investment Firm // Saudi Arabia 2021

named as one of the most creative people in the world by Fast Company, Ahmed El Alfi has been an early stage/growth investor for over 30 years, translating to an extensive experience in funding and nurturing early stage companies. In 1990, he founded Hybrid Capital Partners, a private investment partnership which funded, helped grow and exited several successful companies. From 2010 to 2013 he founded Sawari Ventures, Flat6Labs, Nafham, and TATP. Flat6Labs is the MENA region’s leading startup accelerator.

TATP took over management of half of the American University in Cairo’s Tahrir Square campus to form The GrEEK Campus; a 25,000 m 2 office park where over 130 companies work and collaborate.

In addition to Sawari Ventures’ portfolio of investments, his current portfolio includes NeuroTrainer, Pacific Toxicology, as well as Zignal Labs.

SHARJAH INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (SHUROOQ)

SEDCO Capital is a global, Shariah-

FDI Agency Of The Year // MENA 2021 Most Innovative Investment Projects // MENA 2021

compliant, and ethically led asset management and investment advisory firm.

As the Sharjah FDI Office, we are dedicated to the continued transformation and economic diversification of the

Our investment philosophy is built on three pillars: Principles, Partnership, and Performance. We provide clients with responsible investment solutions through a dynamic asset allocation process across diversified asset classes that deliver strong risk-adjusted returns. By adopting a global view to investing while looking through the lens of our proprietary Prudent Ethical Investment (PEI) approach, an integration of Shariah-compliant and Responsible

emirate and committed to guiding foreign investors through a bespoke step-by-step facilitation process.

Leveraging our superior market knowledge and intelligence, we guide investors to the right opportunities in Sharjah and provide bespoke advice and guidance, that help individuals and organizations establish successfully in the emirate.

Investment principles, we provide our clients with unparalleled global access

Working actively and collaboratively with

to investments across developed and

public institutions and private companies,

emerging markets, including Saudi Arabia, in alignment with their investment objectives. We cultivate longstanding, trusted relationships with our clients and currently oversee more than $5.2 billion in total assets under management (AUM) built on the back of a long successful track

we help guide your business, growth and success by identifying, promoting and facilitating investment in all sectors, with a focus on Travel & Leisure, Transport & Logistics, Healthcare, Environment, Education and Light Manufacturing.

record.

I N T ER N AT I ON AL I NVESTOR MAGAZ INE | 0 87

Building a legacy to last • Generational Wealth Planning & Investing • Discretionary Investment Portfolios • Custody & Trading

The LOM Building, 27 Reid Street, Hamilton, HM 11 Bermuda +1 441 292 5000 | info@lom.com | www.lom.com | LOM Asset Management is licensed to conduct Investment Business by the Bermuda Monetary Authority.