MSCI director says the China-Middle East connection is unlocking a wealth of investment opportunities in an untapped world

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China and the Middle East Forge Financial Collaboration for Mutual Growth

In a bid to revitalize their historical link, China and the Middle East are exploring new avenues of financial collaboration. According to Zhen Wei, managing director at MSCI, this partnership has the potential to unlock a world of untapped opportunities, but it requires a deeper level of mutual understanding.

The inclusion of Saudi Arabian stocks in MSCI’s Emerging Markets Index in 2019 marked a significant milestone in putting the kingdom on the radar of international investors. This move not only provided a benchmark for assessing market performance but also paved the way for increased investment opportunities between China and the Middle East.

Wei emphasized the need for both Chinese and Middle Eastern investors to familiarize themselves with each other’s investment landscape and preferences. He highlighted the importance of building trust and understanding to navigate the complexities of cross-border investments effectively.

China’s growing interest in Saudi Arabia is evident in its status as the largest greenfield foreign direct investor in the kingdom. With investments reaching US$16.8 billion in 2023, the financial ties between the two nations are strengthening across various sectors, including electric vehicles, energy, and construction.

As the next phase of opportunities unfolds, Wei envisions the financial market playing a crucial role in supporting the growth trajectory of both regions. He pointed out the increasing focus on renewable energy investments and highlighted MSCI’s portfolio construction tool as a valuable resource for investors seeking to capitalize on emerging trends.

In a strategic move to enhance financial connectivity, MSCI collaborated with the Saudi Exchange to develop the MSCI Tadawul 30 Index, tracking the 30 largest securities on the Saudi equity market. This index serves as a foundation for the creation of financial products such as derivatives and exchange-traded funds, further facilitating investment activities between China and Saudi Arabia.

Despite the progress made in financial collaboration, Wei emphasized the importance of recognizing the diverse preferences and investment philosophies of investors in both regions. He noted the prevalence of shariah-compliant investing principles among Arab investors and highlighted MSCI’s efforts to cater to this through its Islamic Index series.

Looking ahead, Wei expressed confidence in the potential of increased collaboration between China and Saudi Arabia to yield positive outcomes. With a shared history of trust and interaction dating back centuries, he believes that the financial connectivity between the two regions is just beginning to unfold.

In conclusion, the evolving partnership between China and the Middle East in the realm of finance holds promise for mutual growth and prosperity. By fostering greater understanding and cooperation, both regions stand to benefit from the wealth of opportunities that lie ahead in the interconnected world of global finance.

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