riyadh 
25
february
18-20
18th
19-20th
KAFD conference
centre
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh
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the Date
Introduction
Building upon the success of its previous editions, the Capital Markets Forum (CMF) Riyadh 2025 will explore the latest trends and developments shaping Saudi Arabia's capital markets. Attendees will have unparalleled access and insight into the changing landscape and the diversifying ecosystem of the market, unlocking investment opportunities and setting the stage for more collaboration and partnerships that will shape the future of global capital markets.
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Video: Saudi Capital Market Forum 2024 Highlights
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Immerse yourself in three days of groundbreaking innovation in the global financial landscape, focusing on the seamless integration of emerging markets with established financial systems.
KAFD
CONFERENCE CENTRE
8:00AM
Registration & Networking
8:45AM
Opening & Welcoming
8:50AM
Opening Speech
9:00AM
Sprint 1: Global economic outlook: Evolving Global Dynamics and Economic Shifts
9:15AM
Sprint 2: Middle East economic outlook: Regional Growth, Economic Diversification, and Driving FDI
9:30AM
Sprint 3: Economic Express
9:45AM
KAFD in Focus: Building a financial ecosystem through the Power of Connections
10:00AM
Fireside Chat 1: Saudi Arabia's Economic Horizon: Beyond Growth on the International Stage
10:20AM
Panel 1: The Proliferation of Potential: Where to Invest in a Multipolar World
11:00AM
Panel 2: Redefining Capital Markets: Navigating Change in a New Economic Landscape
11:40AM
Break
11:55AM
Panel 3: Capital Markets 3.0: A Global CEO Perspective
12.35PM
Panel 4: From Desert to Dynamo: The Middle East's Capital Market Transformation
1:20 PM
Lunch Break
2:00 PM
Signing MoUs, Agreements and Announcements
2:10PM
Panel 5: Navigating Opportunities in an Evolving Landscape
2:40PM
Fireside 2: Innovating for a Sustainable Future
2:55PM
Focus Panel 1
3:25PM
Debate Session: Do We Need Fewer Stock Exchanges in the World?
3:50PM
Panel 6: Data driving Capital Markets: Monetizing Insights and the Future of data in Shaping Capital Markets
4:30PM
Focus Panel 2
4:50PM
Panel 7: ESG at the Crossroads of ESG: Navigating Commitments and Future Investment Strategies
5:30PM
Saudi Capital Market Awards 2024 Ceremony
Featured speakers
CMF24 Speakers
H.E. Mohammed Al-Jadaan
Minister of Finance and Chairman of The Financial Sector Development Program Committee
H.E. Khaled Al-Faleh
Minister of Investment
H.E. Faisal Alibrahim
Minister of Economy and Planning
H.E. Mohammad AlTuwaijri
Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors
Saudi National Development Fund
H.E. Mohammed ElKuwaiz
Chairman
Capital Market Authority
Sarah Al Suhaimi
Chairperson
Saudi Tadawul Group
Eng. Khalid AlHussan
Chief Executive Officer
Saudi Tadawul Group
Ziad Al-Murshed
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Aramco
Dr. Manar Al Moneef
Chief Investment Officer
NEOM
Gautam Sashittal
Chief Executive Officer
KAFD
Mohammed AlRumaih
Chief Executive Officer
Saudi Exchange
Wilfred Yiu
Co-COO and Head of Equities
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing
Jeremy Capstick
Managing Director and Global Co-Head of Market Infrastructure
J.P. Morgan
Edward Sankey
Global Head of Equity Capital Markets
HSBC
Khalid Al Ghamdi
Chief Executive Officer
anb capital
Kashif Riaz
Managing Director, Financial Markets Advisory
BlackRock
Dr. Ramu Thiagarajan
Senior Investment Advisor
State Street
Samy-Adrien Akoum
Head of Systematic Trading EMEA
Citadel Securities
Wael AlHazzani
Chief Executive Officer
Muqassa
Yazeed Alnafjan
Deputy Governor for Financial Innovation
Saudi Central Bank (SAMA)
H.E. Mohammed Al-Jadaan
Minister of Finance and Chairman of The Financial Sector Development Program Committee
Biography
His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Aljadaan is the Saudi Minister of Finance for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, appointed in November 2016. He previously served as Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Capital Market Authority from January 2015 to November 2016, and was acting Minister of Economy and Planning from March 2020 until May 2021.
As Saudi Minister of Finance, His Excellency leads a number of boards and committees, including: Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA); Chairman of the Board of Directors of the State Properties General Authority; Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Government Expenditure and Projects Efficiency Authority; Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Organization for Social Insurance; and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Center for Privatization. In addition, he chairs the National Financial Stability Committee, Financial Sector Development Program Committee, Financial Sustainability Program Committee, and Privatization Program Committee.
Minister Aljadaan was recently selected to represent Saudi Arabia as Chair of the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He also represents the Kingdom as a member of the Ministerial Council of the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID), the IMF Board of Governors, the World Bank Board of Governors, the Board of Governors of the Islamic Development Bank, and the Board of Governors of the Arab Monetary Fund.
He is also a member of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, the Board of Directors of the Public Investment Fund, the Board of Directors of the National Development Fund, the Board of Directors of Saudi Aramco, and the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Military Industries.
Minister Aljadaan holds a bachelor’s degree in Islamic economics from Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, and a higher diploma in legal studies from the Institute of Public Administration in Riyadh.
H.E. Khaled Al-Faleh
Minister of Investment
Biography
His Excellency Khalid A. Al-Falih has been Minister of Investment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since 25 February 2020. He previously served as Minister of Energy, Industry, and Mineral Resources from May 2016 to September 2019, as Minister of Health from April 2015 to May 2016, and as Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco) Board of Directors from April 2015 to September 2019. Prior to his appointment as Chairman, HE Al-Falih also held key leadership positions across the company, including President and Chief Executive Officer from January 2009 to May 2015.
HE Al-Falih has been consistently recognized for his leadership in spearheading the strategic transformation of leading sectors and organizations across Saudi Arabia. His achievements include driving large-scale business initiatives and industrial projects, building organizational capacity for the benefit of Saudi citizens through economic and social programs, and enhancing the performance and impact of complex organizations. For many years, he has taken a particular interest in leveraging business activities to fuel social development and economic persification; fostering strong collaboration between Saudi Arabia’s public, private, and academic/research sectors; and promoting the importance of the fields of science and digital technology among young people.
HE Al-Falih remains committed to enriching society through the nurturing of entrepreneurship and innovation; the creation of a knowledge-based society equipped to meet the challenges of the future; the creation of new business and human resource development opportunities; and the protection of the environment. His appointment as Minister of Investment is in line with HE Al-Falih’s exceptional achievements in advancing private sector growth in the Kingdom, which is a central driver of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s ongoing economic persification plan. In 2009, HE Al-Falih received the prestigious King Abdulaziz Medal (First Class), which is Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian honor for service to the country. HE Al-Falih has received many notable awards and recognitions throughout his career. In 2018, the Japanese government awarded him its national decoration, The Order of the Rising Sun. In 2016, he was recognized as Energy Intelligence Petroleum Executive of the Year.
HE Al-Falih earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1982 and completed his MBA at KFUPM in 1991. In 2009, he received an honorary doctorate from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology.
H.E. Faisal Alibrahim
Minister of Economy and Planning
Biography
Faisal F. Alibrahim is the Minister of Economy and Planning of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Alibrahim is also the Supervisor of the Secretariat of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs (CEDA) and a member of the council. His Excellency also chairs the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Statistics. Alibrahim is a member of several governmental committees such as the Finance Committee, the Strategic Management Committee, the CEDA Standing Committee, the Supreme National Investment Council, the Supreme National Council for Industry, the Supreme Transportation and Logistics Committee, the Large Companies Investment Committee, the National Incentives Committee, the Privatization Program Committee, the Financial Sector Development Program Committee, and the National Transformation Program Committee. He also serves on several boards including the Public Investment Fund, National Development Fund, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, the General Organization for Social Insurance, the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority, the National Center for Performance Management, and the Cultural Development Fund.
His Excellency served as secretary/second secretary of the Aramco IPO Committees. He was also chairman of the Executive Committee and member of the Supervisory Committee for the Kingdom’s participation in EXPO 2020 Dubai which has received multiple awards and recognitions. Previously, Alibrahim served as Vice Minister of Economy and Planning and prior to that held key positions at Saudi Aramco including head of mergers and acquisitions, project manager of King Salman International Complex for Maritime Services and Industries, project manager for the Vela-Bahri merger, the largest transaction in Saudi at that time, and Vice President of Aramco Development Company.
Alibrahim holds a master’s degree in business administration from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a bachelor’s degree in economics, a bachelor’s degree in accounting, and a Minor in Management Information Systems from the Pennsylvania State University. He is a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and member of the UCLA Health International.
H.E. Mohammad AlTuwaijri
Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors
Saudi National Development Fund
Biography
His Excellency currently serves as:
- Member of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs (CEDA)
- Member of the Strategic Management Committee (SMC)
- Chairman of the National Transformation Program (NTP)
- Vice Chairman of the National Development Fund (NDF) and Chairman of its Executive Committee
- Chairman of the Saudi Royal Aviation Board of Directors
- Board Member of Aramco
- Board Member of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites and Chairman of its Audit and Risk Committee
- Board Member of King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST), and Member of its Investment Committee and Executive Committee
- Member of the Finance Committee at the Royal Court, and Supervisor to its Secretariat General
In addition, His Excellency is overseeing multiple international bilateral files regionally and globally. Formerly, he served as Minister of Economy and Planning and spent over twenty-five years as a Senior Banker at HSBC and JP Morgan.
H.E. Mohammed ElKuwaiz
Chairman
Capital Market Authority
Biography
Mr. Mohammed A. El-Kuwaiz was appointed as the Chairman of the board of the Capital Market Authority (CMA) of Saudi Arabia in July 2017, after serving as the Vice Chairman since August 2016. Before his tenure at the CMA, Mr. El-Kuwaiz co-founded Derayah Financial Company, where he served as the CEO. His professional background includes a role as a management consultant with McKinsey & Company and positions in investment banking and corporate finance with Samba Financial Group.
In addition to his executive roles, Mr. El-Kuwaiz has contributed to various organizations as a board member. His board memberships include the Public Pension Agency, Al Yamamah Company for Reinforcing Steel Bars, and Al Bilad Bank. He has also been actively involved in several committees, holding memberships in the Securities and Investments Committee at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Investment Committee at King Faisal Foundation, the Investment Committee at Sulaiman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Rajhi Holding Company, and the CMA’s Advisory Committee.
Mr. El-Kuwaiz's academic credentials include an MBA specializing in finance and entrepreneurship, which he obtained in 2003 from New York University’s Leonard N. Stern School of Business. He also holds a Bachelor of Administrative Sciences with Honors, majoring in Law, from King Saud University in Saudi Arabia, earned in 1998.
Sarah Al Suhaimi
Chairperson
Saudi Tadawul Group
Biography
Mrs. Sarah Al-Suhaimi is the Chairperson of the Saudi Tadawul Holding Group Board of Directors, which is considered the largest exchange in the Middle East.
In her capacity, Mrs. AlSuhaimi spearheads Tadawul’ s efforts to integrate the Saudi capital market with global peers by way of aligning the platforms operations
and governing regulations.
Mrs. AlSuhaimi is also the Chairperson of Lazard Ltd. in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa, and a Board Member at the Saudi Telecom Company,
the Saudi Arabian Airlines Public Agency and the Cultural Development Fund, and the Regional Voluntary Carbon Market Company. In addition, Mrs. AlSuhaimi
is a trustee of the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation and a We-Fi Leadership Champion.
Mrs. Al-Suhaimi served as the CEO of Saudi National Bank Capital (SNB Capital) from 2014 to 2021 and was a member of the Board of Directors. During her
tenure, AUMs grew by over four times, NCBC's brokerage market share increased by more than 10% and the bank executed multiple large investment banking
mandates earning league table status in DCM and M&A.
Mrs. AlSuhaimi served a two-year term as Vice-Chairperson of the Advisory Committee of the Capital Market Authority (CMA) Board of Directors from 2013 to
2015.
Prior to that, Mrs. AlSuhaimi led the asset and wealth management pision at Jadwa Investment Company, where she was also the Chief Investment Officer
from 2007 to 2014, and a member of the firms’ Management Committee. Mrs. AlSuhaimi started her career within asset management at Samba Capital.
Mrs. AlSuhaimi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting with Honors from King Saud University, and completed the General Management program in Harvard
Business School.
Eng. Khalid AlHussan
Chief Executive Officer
Saudi Tadawul Group
Biography
Eng. Khalid Abdullah Al-Hussan is a Board member and the Chief Executive Officer of Saudi Tadawul Group. He also serves as the Chairman of the Saudi Exchange, the Securities Depository Center Company (Edaa), the Securities Clearing Center Company (Muqassa) and Wamid, an applied technology services business and the innovation arm of Saudi Tadawul Group. Additionally, Al Hussan is a member of the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), and he is both a Chairman (for the current year of 2021) and a member of the Arab Federation of Exchanges (AFE).
Al-Hussan has more than 14 years of capital markets experience and possesses a wide range of expertise from business development and corporate planning to strategy and operations. Before his appointment as CEO of the Group, Eng. Khalid was the CEO of The Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) - now known as the Saudi Exchange - for more than 4 years. He also held a number of executive roles at the Exchange, in listings, cash markets, asset services and depository, strategy and market data.
Throughout his tenure at the Exchange, Khalid has overseen the introduction and implementation of several key development programs, including the Qualified Foreign Investor (QFI) framework and the Independent Custody Model (ICM), and most recently, its transformation into Saudi Tadawul Group. He also helped secure the Exchange’s inclusion in main emerging markets’ indices. Notably, he sponsored the restructuring program of the Financial Infrastructure companies and oversaw the record-setting IPO of Saudi Aramco.
Prior to joining the Exchange, Eng. Khalid worked in the Saudi insurance sector, managing areas of business and product development, marketing, PMO, and strategy.
Khalid is an engineer and holds an MBA from the University of Colorado, where he is also a certified entrepreneur.
Ziad Al-Murshed
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Aramco
Biography
Ziad T. Al-Murshed was appointed as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, effective May 1, 2022.
Prior to this position, Al-Murshed was acting service line head for Finance, Strategy & Development, a role he started in July 2021. Al-Murshed has also served as the vice president of Fuels & Lubricants, the vice president of International Operations, and the vice president of Downstream Growth & Integration.
Other previous posts include that of executive director of New Business Development, and the general manager and head of Transaction Development, responsible for executing joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, and Divestitures, as well as third-party and other transactions.
Al-Murshed joined the company in 1991 and started his career as a producing engineer in the Exploration and Producing business line, which is currently named Upstream. He moved to Downstream in 1998 and assumed several responsibilities covering refining, marketing, and joint venture development, and coordination.
From 2005 to 2008, he worked at Ras Tanura Refinery, where he became superintendent of operations. In 2008, Al-Murshed moved to Corporate Planning, where he was responsible for the Company’s long-range business plan. From 2010 to 2012, he served as manager of Yanbu’ Fractionation Plant. In 2012,he was appointed manager of Business Analysis in Corporate Planning, later becoming the director of Economic & Energy Analysis. From 2013 to 2015, he was the director of Strategic Planning for the Group. Al-Murshed is a member of the board of directors of SABIC and chairman of the Wisayah Global
Investment Company. He previously served as the chairman of the board of directors of Waed Ventures, vice chairman of the board of directors of the Industrialization and Energy Services Company (TAQA), deputy chairman of, and a member of the board of managers of the International Maritime Industries Company. He also served on the boards of directors of S-Oil Corporation, Motiva Enterprises, Sadara Chemicals Company, the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (Modon), and the Saudi Arabian Industrial Investment Company (Dussur).
Al-Murshed holds a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from Arizona State University, and an MBA from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He is also a graduate of the General Management Program at Harvard Business School.
Dr. Manar Al Moneef
Chief Investment Officer
NEOM
Biography
Gautam Sashittal
Chief Executive Officer
KAFD
Biography
Gautam has been leading the King Abdullah Financial District Development & Management Company (KAFD DMC) as CEO since 2021, where he is pivotal in transforming the district into a prominent business and lifestyle destination, boasting state-of-the-art physical and digital infrastructure. His notable career traverses both the private and public sectors, spanning various industries such as oil and gas, real estate development, Free Zone regulation and development, trade facilitation, and healthcare.
After nearly two decades at Shell, Gautam transitioned to various leadership positions across the Middle East. From 2014 to 2019, he served as the CEO of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), overseeing a Diverse portfolio that includes the DMCC Free Zone, property and community development, setting standards for, and facilitating commodities trade in Dubai, in addition to financial services like clearing house and trade finance products. After his tenure at DMCC, he played a crucial role in the launch of the largest hospital startup in Abu Dhabi, a joint venture between the Mayo Clinic (USA) and Abu Dhabi Health Services (SEHA).
In addition to his executive roles, Gautam holds several board positions. He is a Member of the Audit Advisory Committee at UNOPS in Copenhagen, an Advisor to Fintech Innovations International, and a part of Risk Quotient Ltd, a specialized cyber risk consultancy. His influence and leadership in business have earned him a spot on Forbes’ top 50 Indian Business Executives list.
Mohammed AlRumaih
Chief Executive Officer
Saudi Exchange
Biography
Mohammed Al-Rumaih is the Saudi Exchange CEO. Prior to this, Mohammed was the Chief of Markets for the Exchange where he oversaw Saudi Exchange’s Markets operations, including the Main Market, Nomu-Parallel Market, Sukuk and Bonds, and others. Since joining the Saudi Exchange in 2009, Mohammed has held various leadership positions, including Head of Primary Market and Chief of Sales and Marketing.
He has extensive experience in the financial services sector and has led the Exchange through numerous milestones and a period of exponential growth and transformation. He has been instrumental in the Exchange’s adoption of new market enhancements and products to further cement its status as an advanced capital market and regional powerhouse. His notable achievements include Saudi Exchange’s inclusion in emerging market indices, the revamp of the Nomu-Parallel Market, the success of the Saudi Capital Market enhancement program, and facilitating the smooth public listing of Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest IPO, in 2019.
Mohammed holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, and an Executive MBA from the Manchester Business School.
Wilfred Yiu
Co-COO and Head of Equities
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing
Biography
Wilfred Yiu, at 54, brings over 25 years of experience to his role in international capital markets. He joined Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) in April 2019 and currently serves as the Co-Chief Operating Officer. Prior to HKEX, Mr. Yiu held significant positions including Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Beijing Gao Hua Securities Company Limited, a strategic partner of Goldman Sachs, and Chairman of Qian Kun Futures Co Ltd. His career also includes a tenure as Managing Director, FICC at Goldman Sachs. Since 2020, Mr. Yiu has been a member of the Securities Compensation Fund Committee of the SFC.
Mr. Yiu's academic background is as distinguished as his professional career. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Washington. Furthermore, he has a Master of Science in Computer Science from Stanford University and a Master of Business Administration from Stern School of Business, New York University.
Jeremy Capstick
Managing Director and Global Co-Head of Market Infrastructure
J.P. Morgan
Biography
Mr. Capstick is the Global Co-Head of Market Infrastructure investment banking coverage at J.P. Morgan, overseeing relationships with institutions in the Exchange, Brokerage, Infrastructure, and Financial Technology sectors across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). He brings 24 years of investment banking experience to his role. Previously, Mr. Capstick served as Co-Head of the Financial Institutions Group for EMEA at J.P. Morgan.
He joined J.P. Morgan in November 2008 after a significant tenure at Morgan Stanley, where he spent 12 years as a Managing Director in the Financial Institutions practice, specializing in the Market Infrastructure sector. Mr. Capstick's career commenced at the Banque Nationale de Paris, where he dedicated four years to working in France.
Edward Sankey
Global Head of Equity Capital Markets
HSBC
Biography
Khalid Al Ghamdi
Chief Executive Officer
anb capital
Biography
Khalid's entire career has been in the investment banking space, beginning with Merrill Lynch in London. This was followed by a significant tenure of 12 years at Gulf International Bank, where he ascended to the position of Head of Investment Banking. Subsequently, Khalid transitioned to Mizuho Saudi Arabia, taking on the roles of Managing Director and Board Member. His career progression continued as he later assumed the positions of CEO and Board Member at Credit Suisse Saudi Arabia.
During his illustrious career, Khalid has successfully completed capital market transactions valued at more than USD 50 billion. His academic foundation is equally impressive, holding a BA (Hons) from the University of London and an MBA from the University of Colorado at Boulder
Kashif Riaz
Managing Director, Financial Markets Advisory
BlackRock
Biography
Kashif Riaz, Managing Director, leads BlackRock’s Financial Markets Advisory business for the Middle East, which delivers a range of advisory services including capital markets, portfolio construction, sustainability, and data & analytics solutions to official sector and financial institution clients. He primarily focuses on capital markets topics such as infrastructure financing, public-private partnerships, blended finance, and development finance institutions. Prior to assuming his current responsibilities in November 2021, Mr. Riaz was a member of the Investment Grade Credit Platform leadership team in Fundamental Fixed Income. In this role, he was responsible for managing and evolving key elements of the investment process, developing investment themes and positioning views, assessing top-down and industry-level market drivers, and driving the business and organizational strategy of the platform.
Mr. Riaz joined BlackRock in 2010 as a founding member of BlackRock Capital Markets, where he headed the group’s Global Investment Grade Credit team and spearheaded the firm’s primary market engagement in the asset class. Mr. Riaz served as a member of the Investment Committees for BlackRock’s Infrastructure Debt funds. He also contributed to the development of the firm’s public positioning on bond market structure and liquidity. Mr. Riaz began his career at J.P. Morgan, where he worked for 12 years in both Investment Banking Coverage and Debt Capital Markets. Mr. Riaz received an MBA degree from Columbia University in 2005 and an SB degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1998.
Dr. Ramu Thiagarajan
Senior Investment Advisor
State Street
Biography
Ramu Thiagarajan is Senior Investment Advisor/Economist at State Street. He is the Chairperson of the Editorial Board that oversees all thought leadership – with focus on global macro trends, geopolitics as well as sustainability and climate related issues. In this role, he works with investment leaders across the firm and interacts with monetary authorities and regulators. As part of this role, he authors research papers and represents the firm on macro topics such as inflation, deglobalization, climate, sustainability and other related topics.
Prior to this role as senior investment advisor, he was Global Head of Fixed Income and Currency research and chair of the Technical Committee in the asset management division of State Street, which he joined in 2017. Prior to joining State Street, Ramu was the global head of fixed income research and risk in AllianceBernstein. His earlier roles included global head of research division in Deutsche Asset Management and research and portfolio management divisions in other organizations including Mellon Capital.
Ramu’s tenure in the financial services industry spans nearly 30 years with many leadership roles in research, risk and portfolio construction across a wide variety of global asset classes – equity, fixed income and currency. Ramu started his career as a professor of accounting and finance in Kellogg, Northwestern University. As a professor and consultant, Ramu had extensive exposure to financial services industry and regulators. Based on his research, he wrote a number of seminal appears including papers on earnings quality, risk parity, hedging and risk management. He has published more than 25 papers in leading academic and industry journals globally.
His pioneering research has been instrumental in the development of many key factors/metrics in both equity and fixed income models for asset management. Ramu’s recent research has focused on key macro topics including the shifting relationship between oil and dollar, deglobalization, weaponization of finance, generative AI, inflation, central bank digital currency, friend-shoring, and climate risks.
Samy-Adrien Akoum
Head of Systematic Trading EMEA
Citadel Securities
Biography
Samy-Adrien Akoum is the Head of Systematic Trading EMEA for Citadel Securities. He has been instrumental in driving the firm's expansion into new products and markets. Additionally, Samy has played a pivotal role in overseeing the launches of new businesses across Europe and the Middle-East. Before joining Citadel Securities, he was part of TransMarket Group, where he led the energy futures trading team.
In terms of academic credentials, Samy is highly qualified, holding a Masters of Science in Executive Engineering from Mines ParisTech. He also earned a Masters of Quantitative Finance from University Paris Dauphine, further solidifying his expertise in the field.
Wael AlHazzani
Chief Executive Officer
Muqassa
Biography
Mr. Al-Hazzani is the Chief Executive Officer of Muqassa and has held that position since its establishment in May 2018. He also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Security Depository Center Company (Edaa) since 2018 and Saudi Exchange since April 2021. Prior to his appointment as the CEO of Muqassa, Mr. Al-Hazzani held a variety of positions such as Head of Clearing and Settlement and was a Risk Planning Manager who was responsible for maintaining risk management processes and policies for Saudi Exchange and designed, developed and recommended a variety of strategies in order to minimize risk exposure.
He carries a breadth of knowledge in the capital markets, risk management, clearing and settlement industry. He held many leading positions within the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul), including heading the clearing and settlement function, along with the Post-Trade Transformation Program.
Mr. Al-Hazzani holds an MBA, a Minor in Finance and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from King Saud University, Saudi Arabia.
Yazeed Alnafjan
Deputy Governor for Financial Innovation
Saudi Central Bank (SAMA)
Biography
Yazeed Alnafjan was appointed as the Deputy Governor for Financial Innovation at the Saudi Central Bank in 2024. In his role, he is at the forefront of the Central Bank and Regulatory Authority's efforts to foster financial sector development, which includes spearheading both internal organizational development and market development within the regulatory scope of SAMA. His team is dedicated to areas such as Market Development, Innovation, Central Bank Digital Currency, Virtual Assets, and Open Banking, ensuring comprehensive industry growth and timely regulatory progress by introducing new products and services to the market.
Moreover, Alnafjan leads the implementation and oversight of the Fintech Strategy, which significantly contributes to the goals of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030. He also serves on the Board of Directors at Fintech Saudi, the government entity tasked with promoting the fintech ecosystem's enablement and advancement.
Previously, as the Director General of Banking Control, Yazeed was accountable for supervising, regulating, and licensing banks in Saudi Arabia. His focus was on maintaining the soundness, resilience, and stability of the Saudi banking sector, aligning with SAMA's objectives to uphold financial and monetary stability and support the nation's economic growth. In addition, his contributions extend to participating in several key local and international committees, such as the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) and the Basel Consultative Group (BCG).
Yazeed brings valuable experience from his time managing the Money Market and FX Division, where he was responsible for the Central Bank's asset-liability management and FX activities, along with the execution of monetary policy and management of system liquidity.
Find the event
The Venues
18 FEB THE CONFERENCE
KAFD CONFERENCE CENTER
- King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD),
- Al Aqiq,
- Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
19-20 FEB CORPORATE ACCESS MEETINGS
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RIYADH
- Kingdom Centre,
- Olaya St, Al Olaya,
- Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
FAQ'S
Frequently asked questions
The event is designed for investors, financial institutions, corporate executives, government representatives, and policymakers interested in understanding global capital markets. CEOs, CFOs, and industry leaders from various sectors are encouraged to attend.
The forum will cover a wide range of topics, including global economic outlooks, investment opportunities, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) trends, fintech innovations, and the role of capital markets in driving sustainable growth.
Yes, the event welcomes participants from around the world. It is an international event designed to foster global connections and share insights on capital markets across key financial centers.
Yes, the forum will offer a virtual attendance option for those who are unable to join in person. Attendees will have access to live streaming on the event website and YouTube.
The forum provides multiple networking opportunities, including exclusive meet-and-greet sessions, roundtable discussions, and corporate access investor meetings. These are designed to connect attendees with key decision - makers, industry leaders , and potential investors.
Stay tuned for more information.
You can stay updated by following the event’s official social media channels and our website. Regular updates about speakers, agenda, and special announcements will be shared via e-mail leading up to the event.
The primary language of the event will be English. Simultaneous translation services will be provided for key sessions to accommodate both Arabic and Mandarin speaking participants.
Yes, the recordings will be available on YouTube, allowing participants to revisit key discussions and presentations.
REGISTRATION
Interested in attending?
Registration will open soon
SPONSORSHIP
Opening Speech
Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Financial Sector Development Program Committee
See them at
February, 18
1-1 Session with H.E. Mohammed Aljadaan
Biography
H.E. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan is the Minister of Finance, a
Board Member of the Public Investment Fund, a Board Member of Saudi
Aramco, the Chairman of General Authority of State Real Estate, and
has membership in several government entities. He represents the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in several events around the world,
including a Member of the OPEC Ministerial Council for International
Development Fund, a Member of the Governor's Board of the
International Monetary Fund, heads of the Kingdom's delegation to
the meetings of finance ministers and central bank governors of the
G20, Governor of the Kingdom at the Asian Infrastructure Investment
Bank, a Member of the Governor's Board of the Islamic Development
Bank, a Member of the Governor's Board of Arab Financial
Institutions, and Member of the Council of Arab Finance Ministers.
H.E Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan holds a bachelor's degree in
Islamic law focusing on Islamic economics from Imam Mohammed Ibn
Saud Islamic University and a diploma in Legal Studies from the
Institute of Public Administration in Riyadh.
- Brief introduction to event’s theme and objectives
- [Explanation of "The Capital Horizon" as defining the Middle East's increasing importance as a global financial center similar to "the Global South", "BRICs" etc]
- Increased interconnectedness of global markets and the importance of cross-border collaboration and investment
- Emphasis on the need for innovation, adaptability, and collaboration
Opening Speech by the Lord Mayor of the City of London
Speakers
- Alderman Professor Michael Mainellir, The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of London, City of London
Opening Speech by the Chairperson of the Saudi Tadawul Group
Speakers
- Mrs. Sarah AlSuhaimi, Chairperson, Saudi Tadawul Group
Keynote Dialogue 1: HMG’s Investment Strategy and Opportunities for UK-KSA Collaboration by the Minister of State for Investment of the United Kingdom
Speakers
- Mrs. Poppy Gustafsson, Minister of State for Investment of the United Kingdom, HM Treasury
Keynote Dialogue 2: UK/KSA Financial Services Cooperation.
The Economic Secretary to the Treasury will provide a keynote speech about ongoing cooperation between HM Treasury and the KSA Ministry of Finance on financial services.
Speakers
- Mrs. Tulip Siddiq, Economic Secretary to the Treasury and City Minister, HM Treasury
Fireside Chat 1: UK/KSA Financial Services Cooperation
The Economic Secretary to the Treasury will provide a keynote speech about ongoing cooperation between HM Treasury and the KSA Ministry of Finance on financial services.
Speakers
- Mrs. Tulip Siddiq, Economic Secretary to the Treasury and City Minister, HM Treasury
Fireside Chat: Global Standards: Enhancing Saudi-UK Capital Market Integration
His Excellency Capital Market Authority Chairman of Saudi Arabia will discuss the regulatory frameworks established by the CMA and its UK counterpart to ensure transparency, integrity, and investor protection within capital markets.
Speakers
- H.E. Mohammed Elkuwaiz, Chairman, Capital Market Authority of Saudi Arabia
Moderator
- Mr. Mohammed Islam, Host & Founder, The Mo Show
Panel 1: Unleashing Capital Market Potential
Discussing the diversity of investment opportunities such as fixed income, cross-listings, and the growth of the Saudi Exchange
Discussing the latest trends shaping global capital markets, including digital transformation, ESG investing, and regulatory developments
Identify opportunities for cross-border collaboration, potential investment sectors, and strategies for facilitating international capital flows and market integration.
Speakers
- Mr. Charlie Walker, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, London Stock Exchange
- Mr. Lee Hodgkinson, Group Chief Strategy Officer, Saudi Tadawul Group
- Mr. Faris AlGhannam, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Saudi Arabia
Moderator
- Mrs. Nicola Watkinson, Managing Director - International Team, TheCityUK
Panel 2: New Horizons: How the Investment Landscape is Evolving
Discuss strategic initiatives and progress made by KSA organizations represented on the panel in diversifying KSA’s economy, with a focus on specific investment and projects.
The importance of a global approach to investment.
Investment opportunities in both the UK and KSA, including opportunities for UK/KSA companies and businesses to work together to promote growth in both jurisdictions.
Speakers
- Mr. Abdulaziz AlAjaji, Regional Co-Head MENA & Chief Executive Officer, Morgan Stanley Saudi Arabia
- Dr. Abdullah AlShwer, Chief Executive Officer, Riyad Capital
- Mr. Tim Reid, Chief Executive Officer, UK Export Finance
Moderator
- Mrs. Sallianne Taylor, Head of Government Affairs - EMEA, , Bloomberg
Panel 3: Integrating Sustainability into the Financial Services Sector: Opportunities and Risks for Investment and Regulation
Overview of the UK and KSA’s approach to sustainable finance (from a regulation and investment perspective).
The role of the UK and KSA in the global sustainability effort.
Opportunities for UK/KSA collaboration on sustainable finance.
Speakers
- Mr. Abdulaziz AlOnaizan, Chief Executive Officer, Bank AlBilad
- Mrs. Vanessa Havard-Williams, Chairperson, The Transition Finance Market Review
- Ms. Dana Barsky, Global Head of Sustainability Strategy & Net Zero, Standard Chartered
Moderator
- Mr. Jack Knight, Deputy CEO, Investment Association
Sprint 1: Global economic outlook: Evolving Global Dynamics and Economic Shifts
Globalisation and geoeconomics drove macro-economics for decades, but further shocks to the system drive the geopolitical balance higher in the world view. In an era of sluggish growth (rate cuts, inflation, US elections) many have a cautiously optimistic view. What is the latest economic outlook globally, and what are the different regional influences driving the global economy?
Sprint 2: Middle East economic outlook: Regional Growth, Economic Diversification, and Driving FDI
The IMF predicted growth for the region, and growth expectations in the region outpace those of all other regions. With major reforms and projects still pressing ahead, we are seeing the impacts of non-oil reliance progressing further. This is a deep dive into regional economics and in particular Saudi dynamics with growth seen across consumption, travel, tourism and hospitality. How does that help drive FDI and further growth to progress the agenda towards 2030?
Sprint 3: Economic Express
Quickfire Q&A, most voted questions during previous 2 sessions put to the economists.
KAFD in Focus: Building a financial ecosystem through the Power of Connections
An exclusive fireside chat which unveils the latest milestones in KAFD’s transformative journey. Discover the nexus between urban development, economic diversification, and strategic connections and how they are shaping a financial center of the future.
Fireside Chat 1: Saudi Arabia's Economic Horizon: Beyond Growth on the International Stage
As the Kingdom's economy continues to reach and surpass key milestones—(trillion-dollar economic standing, non-oil activities half of GDP, investment projected to rise to 28% of GDP by 2030, and economists predicting stronger FDI inflows)—the messages seem to say there is still much more to come on the horizon. With significant strides in tourism and events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034 confirmed, how does the Kingdom envision its position on the international stage, and what more opportunities do we see for it ahead?
Panel 1: The Proliferation of Potential: Where to Invest in a Multipolar World
Analyzing macroeconomic factors influencing investment landscapes
Understanding the impact of geopolitical shifts on global investments
Balancing risks and rewards in emerging economies
Panel 2: Redefining Capital Markets: Navigating Change in a New Economic Landscape
Macroeconomic dynamics are increasingly shaped by factors beyond traditional economic measures. In this new era of change, investor demand is shifting towards considerations that extend beyond just financial performance. Are capital markets charting a new course? As questions about where and how to invest become more pressing, this session will explore the future of capital markets, and the significance of diversification and investment strategies, highlighting the necessity of foresight and strategic thinking.
Panel 3: Capital Markets 3.0: A Global CEO Perspective
Strategies for enhancing market resilience and risk management against global shocks
The role of exchanges in promoting ESG standards and sustainable finance
Market integration, collaboration and the opportunity to improve global market connectivity
The efforts to align regulatory frameworks across different markets
Panel 4: From Desert to Dynamo: The Middle East's Capital Market Transformation
Exploring the future of GCC markets and their role in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to stimulate international demand. As global supply chain strategies are evolving and investor demand is changing collaboration between and within regional blocs can help create opportunities.
Closer collaboration on areas such as cross-listings
Competitive strengths and common values
Trends: what are investors focused on
Global headwinds and its effect on the region
Embracing sustainability in the transition to a post-oil economy
Panel 5: Navigating Opportunities in an Evolving Landscape
Explore the latest strategies and diversification trends shaping the industry, and delve into how technology is revolutionizing the sector. The panel will analyze shifting client preferences and behaviors, highlighting how Asset Management firms can adapt to meet the needs of tomorrow’s investors. How can the Power of Collaboration create potential synergies between firms to enhance offerings and drive innovation in an increasingly competitive market.
Fireside 2: Innovating for a Sustainable Future
Exploring the role of a company as a leader in the global chemicals and materials industry and the Power of connections. Focus on innovation, sustainability, and the company's strategic vision as well as discussing the evolving role of the chemical industry in a changing global economy and to explore the future outlook for the company and the chemicals sector.
Focus Panel 1
To be confirmed.
Debate Session: Do We Need Fewer Stock Exchanges in the World?
Would centralization regionally or globally facilitate international investment?
Fewer stock exchanges would mean more liquidity but more risk. What’s more important?
Would the standardized trading practices and regulations that centralized stock exchanges could offer be better for investors?
How could local and smaller economies compete if their exchanges were consolidated?
Panel 6: Data driving Capital Markets: Monetizing Insights and the Future of data in Shaping Capital Markets
Sell-side entities, including investment banks and brokerages, generate valuable proprietary data from market analysis, trading, and client interactions, offering insights into market trends, consumer behaviour, and economic indicators. However, monetizing this data presents challenges, particularly due to regulatory constraints around data privacy and security. Firms must comply with these regulations while investing in advanced analytics infrastructure to manage large volumes of data. On the buy-side, firms leverage this data to gain competitive insights and enhance investment strategies. Meanwhile, infrastructure companies such as stock exchanges and clearinghouses also play a significant role in data monetization, using their vast transactional data to provide services like predictive analytics and risk management solutions. With the rapid advancements in AI and the increasing importance of data-driven solutions, this session will explore the future of data in capital markets. Can we envision a world where data-backed solutions become central to capital market development?
Focus Panel 2
To be confirmed.
Panel 7: ESG at the Crossroads of ESG: Navigating Commitments and Future Investment Strategies
ESG issues have gained significant traction in recent years, although some have questioned whether momentum has waned. Many investors now factor ESG considerations into their investment decision-making processes, with a notable portion of global investors viewing ESG as central to their strategies while others integrate it into their overall approach. Amid various economic transformations, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have made ambitious commitments to sustainability, with Saudi Arabia aiming for net zero by 2060 and targeting 50% renewable energy in its energy mix by 2030. As part of the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom has established a 2030 emissions-reduction target, underscoring its commitment to global climate goals. In response to these initiatives, MENA stock exchanges and governments are actively promoting ESG adoption, while private sector companies are increasingly issuing sustainable debt instruments, such as bonds and sukuk. These instruments not only attract investments but also foster sustainable development in alignment with both national and international sustainability targets.