Investopia 2024 kicked off with an impressive array of discussions at the esteemed St. Regis Sadiyaat in Abu Dhabi, featuring 11 panel sessions showcasing insights from 37 experts across various sectors of the new economy.
Diverse perspectives were shared on investment opportunities spanning technology, circular economy, creative economy, hospitality, sports, and aviation. Notable attendees included investors, economists, government officials, policy-makers, and entrepreneurs hailing from different corners of the globe.
One of the focal points of the morning discussions centred on macroeconomics in a post-COVID-19 world. The panel delved into the trajectory of the global economy post-pandemic, the significance of COP28 in addressing climate change, the implications of the US Presidential election outcome, and the resilience of the global economy amidst geopolitical upheavals.
Titled “New Economic Frontiers Unveiled: Navigating the Unknown,” the panel explored the driving forces behind emerging sectors of the economy, market dynamics, and the collaborative role of governments and the private sector in fostering economic growth.
Esteemed participants such as Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin, Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund; Dr. François Bourguignon, Honorary President of the Paris School of Economics; Dr. Nathan Sheets, Chief Economist at Citi; and John Defterios, Professor of Business Administration at NYU Abu Dhabi, contributed valuable insights.
Dr. Mohieldin stressed the importance of addressing the needs of low and middle-income countries amidst shifting global economic trends, citing Africa’s transition from a low-income region to a middle-income one. Highlighting the challenges faced by middle-income countries and the imperative of investment in human capital, education, and infrastructure, he underscored the urgency of tackling debt and development issues on a global scale.
Dr. Bourguignon emphasised the pressing need for swift action towards achieving carbon neutrality to mitigate future consequences of climate change. He advocated for a paradigm shift in global manufacturing and production frameworks.
In contrast, Dr. Sheets expressed optimism about the resilience of the global economy, attributing it to advancements in technology that have enabled solutions to various contemporary challenges.
Discussing the UAE’s economic landscape, Dr. Bourguignon lauded the country’s flexibility and resilience in navigating economic challenges.
Another compelling panel featured government officials including Ryad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Kingdom of Morocco; Jose-Maria Figueres, Former President of Costa Rica; and Valentino Valentini, Deputy Minister for Enterprises and Made in Italy. The panel deliberated on navigating the evolving global economic landscape, technological advancements, renewable energy, and challenges to globalization.
Additionally, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Managing Director and CEO of Mubadala Investment Company, presented an insightful review of new investment sectors, highlighting the importance of innovative investment strategies in response to recent global economic shifts.
Renowned British actor, musician, and director, Idris Elba, shed light on untapped investment opportunities within the creative economy during a panel titled “Investing in the Creative Economy.”
The event also hosted a thought-provoking roundtable titled “Family Offices: Catalysing ESG and Shaping the Future” in collaboration with Standard Chartered Bank and the UAE-UK Business Council, underscoring sustainability as a pivotal pillar in the new economy agenda.
