RIYADH, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – October 29, 2024 – The opening day of the 8th annual Future Investment Initiative (FII) kicked off at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, where global leaders, visionary innovators, and influential investors gathered to explore the theme “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow.”
Under the leadership of CEO Richard Attias, FII Institute once again showcased its commitment to redefining the future of global investment and innovation, sparking dialogues around critical issues shaping the world. In attendance was Dr. Mustapha Madbouly, Prime Minister, Arab Republic of Egypt and Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shahbaz Sharif.
“The Future Investment Initiative is about breaking traditional boundaries in thinking and expanding the possibilities of human achievement,” said Richard Attias, CEO of FII Institute. “On Day 1, we’ve seen global visionaries layout powerful ideas and strategies that will shape how we address today’s most pressing challenges and open up new horizons for humanity.”
1. Standout moments from Day 1 of FII8: Opening Plenary Session: The day commenced with insightful remarks by Attias, setting the stage for discussions that would bridge investment, innovation, and sustainable development. H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), followed with a call to action, urging leaders to harness innovative strategies in the face of global shifts.
2. H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan introduced the findings of the 2024 FII PRIORITY Compass: providing crucial insights into the evolving landscape of global challenges. The report highlighted urgent priorities such as cost of living, governance and healthcare, urging stakeholders to align their strategies with sustainable development goals. He notes, “At this crucial moment, we stand on the edge of infinite horizons. We have the responsibilities and opportunities to shape a future that invests not only in our economies, but in humanity itself.” Read the Full Report Here.
3. Board of Changemakers: Geoeconomics: A distinguished panel, including BlackRock’s Laurence Fink, Moderna’s Stéphane Bancel, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited Laura Cha, Citadel’s Ken Griffin, Sanofi’s Paul Hudson, Google’s Ruth Porat, HSBC’s Former Group CEO Noel Quinn, Facebook’s Co-founder Eduardo Saverin, Former CEO & Chairman, Google KBE Dr. Eric Schmidt, The Blackstone Co-Founder and Chairman, Stephen Schwarzman and Carlye Chairman and FII Institute Secretary of the Board, David Rubenstein discussed the rising influence of the Global South, technological disruptions, and the need for novel economic systems to support sustainable global progress.
4. Special Conversation on Energy: H.R.H. Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud highlighted Saudi Arabia’s leading role in the energy transition, emphasizing sustainable energy development as critical to achieving net-zero targets worldwide.
5. Second Board of Changemakers: Banking & Investment: Industry titans, including H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, Chairman, Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group; Tony O. Elumelu, Chairman, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group; Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Jane Fraser, CEO, Citi; Jenny Johnson, President & CEO, Franklin Templeton; Ron O’Hanley, Chairman & CEO, State Street Corporation; Ted Pick, CEO, Morgan Stanley; Marc Rowan, Co-Founder & CEO, Apollo Global Management; Harvey M. Schwartz, CEO, Carlyle; Neil Shen, Founding & Managing Partner, HongShan; David Solomon, Chairman & CEO, Goldman Sachs; Makoto Takashima, Chairman of the Board, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation; and Bill Winters, Group CEO, Standard Chartered Bank analyzed the changing dynamics in financial management, emphasizing adaptability in the face of evolving economic conditions and geopolitical factors.
6. Titan of Industry – TikTok CEO Shou Chew captivated audiences with insights into the impact of social media and digital platforms on global community-building, creativity, and cultural exchange, moderated by Richard Attias. Chew said “TikTok has more than a billion users now. It’s not just an app for young people but caters to everyone. It is not just about entertainment, but community, heritage, culture and arts.”
7. Launch of the AI Inclusive Initiative: A global pledge aimed at ensuring inclusive AI deployment in emerging markets. This initiative brings together tech companies, knowledge partners, government policymakers, and the private sector. Funding will be deployed to projects in Emerging Markets. FII Institute 19 Knowledge Partners will be providing expertise and capacity-building support.
8. Third Board of Changemakers on AI: Future of AI including CEOs such as Shou Chew, CEO, TikTok; Jack Hidary, CEO, SandboxAQ; Benjamin Horowitz, Co-Founder & General Partner, Andreessen Horowitz; Travis Kalanick, CEO, CloudKitchens; Ruth Porat, President & CIO, Alphabet & Google; Jay Puri, Executive Vice President of Worldwide Field Operations, NVIDIA; Dr. Eric Schmidt, Founder & CEO, Schmidt Family Foundation; Co-Founder, Schmidt Sciences; Former CEO & Chairman, Google and Dr. Peter H Diamandis, Founder and Executive Chairman, XPRIZE Foundation focused on significant advancements in AI technologies over the past year, including breakthroughs in areas such as generative AI. The session also addressed the dual-edged impact of AI on employment. The conversation turned to the ethical challenges posed by AI, such as algorithmic bias, privacy concerns, and the implications of AI in decision-making processes.
9. A Special Discussion on The Future of AI with Elon Musk, CEO, Tesla; Founder, SpaceX; and Founder, xAI left FII8 guests with key insights on how AI should prioritize the well-being of humanity. He emphasized, “Going Forward, we need AI that loves humanity, which is why xAI was created. It seeks the best interests of humanity” promoting a future where these technologies serve to uplift and enhance the human experience.
10. Announcement: Today, 12 financial and non-financial announcements were made all centered around the theme of investing in impactful solutions for humanity. These announcements highlight a commitment to fostering positive change across various sectors, emphasizing sustainable development, and innovation.
As FII8 progresses during the week, the Institute will convene deeper discussions on fostering collaboration, responsible investment, and bold new solutions that transcend conventional boundaries, all in pursuit of a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
ENDS
For media inquiries, please contact: media@fii-institute.org
About FII Institute
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global non-profit foundation driven by data with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global and inclusive, we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.
Riyadh – Twelve international companies have been added to the FII Institute’s roster of Strategic Partners. These companies join a growing community of leaders from business, technology, aviation, energy, academia, and public policy committed to creating a sustainable and equitable future.
The FII Institute runs a year-round program of global initiatives, international summits, policy development, global surveys, and indices. Strategic Partners are central to this program, providing leadership, delegates, and participating in a range of initiatives.
The twelve new Strategic Partners are ACWA Power, ALAT, Claure Group, Franklin Templeton, King Salman International Airport, Minerva Foods, NBK, Premium Residency Center, Riyadh Air, and SCAI. Additionally, FII Institute is thrilled to introduce General Atlantic and Lakestar as our inaugural Venture Program Partners. Venture Program Partners are leading firms that will also play a key role in the upcoming FII8 Investment Day. FII Institute Venture Program brings together entrepreneurs and distinguished leaders in innovation, investment, business, and education fostering collaboration to tackle global challenges in AI and robotics, sustainability, health, and education.
The twelve new Partners join existing Strategic Partners including Founding Partner – Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, Vision Partners – the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia and Aramco, Diriyah, Emaar, GFH, HSBC, KAFD, Ma’aden, NEOM, New Murabba, Red Sea Global, Riyad Bank, ROSHN, Royal Commission for AlUla, SABIC, Sanabil Investments, SNB, SoftBank Vision Fund, Standard Chartered, State Street, STC, THIQAH, and Vision Invest.
This year’s FII8 activities will culminate in four days of focused discussion about challenges facing humanity and a full week of side events, scheduled to take place in Riyadh between 28 and 31 October. Over six hundred speakers, and eight thousand delegates, including world leaders, ministers, CEOs, investors, founders, and public policy experts, will attend the globally recognized annual conference.
‘FII8 Support Partners’ include BMW, Saudia, Dr. Sulaiman Alhabib and Saudi Electricity Company.
Insights, thinking, and dedicated panel discussions are supported by ‘knowledge and academic partners’ from leading consultancies, universities and institutions: Accenture, ADL, Bain & Company, BCG, Columbia, Deloitte, EY, FPA2, EY, The Global Fund, Hevolution, Kearney, KPMG, McKinsey, Oliver Wyman, PWC, Strategy&, UNDP, UNHCR, UNICEF, World Bank, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and UM6P.
Richard Attias, CEO of the FII Institute said, “Our partners are fundamental to our mission at FII Institute to make a positive impact on humanity. As our network expands, we are uniting a global force for positive change and creating impactful initiatives. By joining forces with over 60 exceptional partners, we are harnessing a collective power to address pressing challenges and create a more sustainable future. Together, we are pushing boundaries and creating a better world.”
Media Inquiries
Please address any inquiries to: media@fii-institute.org
About FII Institute:
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global, inclusive, and driven by data: we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions and actions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.
October 18, 2024
RIYADH – The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is thrilled to announce the distinguished speakers and the full program lineup for the highly anticipated FII8 Conference, taking place from October 28-31, 2024, at the iconic King Abdulaziz International Conference Center.
FII8 will also feature two dynamic pre-summits on October 28: the New Africa Summit and HERizon Summit. The New Africa Summit will tackle opportunities in multiple sectors in Africa, and the evolving risk landscape, while the HERizon Summit will ignite discussions on the pivotal role of women in driving global economic growth and reshaping the future of healthcare, among other pressing topics.
Following in the footsteps of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and COP29, FII8 aims to illuminate the most critical challenges facing our world today—from finance, energy, investment, policy, and artificial intelligence to business, climate change, and cutting-edge innovation. This influential conference brings together world leaders, changemakers, and thought pioneers to craft tangible solutions and foster game-changing collaborations between governments and businesses.
Key Speakers include: H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO, DP World; Stéphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna Therapeutics; Shou Zi Chew, CEO of TikTok; Laurence D. Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock; Jane Fraser, CEO of Citi; Kenneth C. Griffin, Founder and CEO of Citadel; Hon. Dame Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange; Travis Kalanick, CEO of CloudKitchens; Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer, Alphabet & Google; Jay Puri, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Field Operations, NVIDIA; David Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group; and Dr. Eric Schmidt, Founder and CEO, Schmidt Family Foundation; Co-Founder, Schmidt Sciences, Former CEO and Chairman of Google.
With over 180 panels and 500+ speakers, FII8 includes the Board of Changemakers sessions on Geoeconomics, Banking and Investments, Artificial Intelligence, Technology and Innovation. Selected top panels will explore topics such as “How Leaders Can Develop New Strategies to Drive Growth” and feature conclaves on Healthy Lifespan and Aging, the Future of Work, Industry 5.0, Preventive Medicine, Regenerative Cities, and the Future of AI.
Under the theme, Infinite Horizon: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow, the possibilities are boundless, and the potential for positive change is infinite. Join the movement to harness the power of innovation and create a brighter future for all.
For a complete program of FII Institute’s flagship Conference visit: FII8 Webpage
For media inquiries, please email: media@fii-institute.org
About FII Institute
THE FUTURE INVESTMENT INITIATIVE (FII) INSTITUTE is a global non-profit foundation driven by data with an investment arm focused on impactful initiatives for humanity. Globally committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, we foster great minds worldwide and turn ideas into real-world solutions in five critical areas: artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, education, healthcare, and sustainability.
15 OCT 2024 –Riyadh, Minerva Foods, a multinational food company and one of the world’s leading beef producers, is committed to creating connections between people, food and nature, and FII Institute, a global non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity, has announced their strategic partnership aimed at accelerating the transition to sustainable food systems. This partnership enables Minerva Foods to contribute to meaningful initiatives that drive positive change in the global food system, promote sustainable practices, and address relevant causes such as food security, climate change, and supply chain transparency. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, FII Institute and Minerva Foods aim to drive sustainable transformation in the food industry. The partnership will also support investment in sustainable food technologies to drive innovation and improve efficiency.
Minerva Foods, a multinational food company and one of the world’s leading beef producers, committed to creating connections between people, food and nature, will be present at FII8, a meeting of leaders and executives from around the world, to discuss investment opportunities that provide sustainable growth for countries.
Minerva Foods maintains a strategy of expanding geographic diversification, with the aim of mitigating risks and maximizing opportunities in the global animal protein market, always respecting our commitment to financial discipline, sustainability and creating value for shareholders. This strengthens its position as a leading global player in the animal protein market from South America. The Company emphasizes respect for consumers, ensures the welfare of livestock, and maintains food safety throughout its production cycle.
MyCarbon, a subsidiary of Minerva Foods for the origination and sale of carbon credits, is one of the company’s main investments. The company was created to promote a new business model based on sustainability, transforming production chains to address climate change. MyCarbon also supports Minerva Foods’ decarbonization journey, promoting regenerative practices alongside the suppliers.
FII Institute is renowned for its commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering profound dialogue on critical investment around sustainable food systems. Gathering leaders and visionaries from across the globe, FII Institute provides a variety of platforms for meaningful exchanges and impactful initiatives. Besides, FII Institute publications such as the FII Priority Compass, Impact Reports, White papers, Op-eds, and grassroots initiatives on education in Kenya and Brazil demonstrate our commitment to supporting sustainable development and attracting investment globally. The FII Institute also convenes world leaders, policymakers, top CEOs, investors, academia, NGOs, entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, activists, and media for its annual flagship conference in October in Riyadh. It also hosts FII PRIORITY summits worldwide in cities like Miami, Hong Kong, and Rio de Janeiro, which serve as international hubs of investment, innovation, and inspiration.
Richard Attias, CEO of the FII Institute, welcomed Minerva Foods to its growing list of international partners noting “This partnership marks a significant milestone for both FII Institute and Minerva Foods, as it represents the first strategic collaboration of its kind with a Latin American company. Minerva Foods’ participation at the FII Summit in Rio de Janeiro demonstrated its commitment to building strong relationships with FII Institute. We aim to leverage our combined expertise to drive positive change in the global food supply chain and promote sustainable food systems.”
Fernando Queiroz, CEO of Minerva Foods, commented “The remarkable growth Saudi Arabia is experiencing, coupled with Brazil’s advancements in food production, establishes a strong and long-lasting foundation for cooperation between our two nations. This partnership presents significant opportunities to develop a production hub in Brazil, complemented by a logistics hub in Saudi Arabia. Together, we can contribute more meaningfully to addressing the global challenge of feeding the world’s population.”
FII Institute will welcome over 7,000 registered attendees and over 500 speakers for the flagship annual conference FII8 from October 28 – 31 under the theme, “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow. Discussions will focus on disruptive technology, connecting ideas to investments, and accelerating innovation for the betterment of business and society.
Media Inquiries
Please address any inquiries to: media@fii-institute.org
About FII Institute:
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is global non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global, inclusive, and driven by data: we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions and actions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.
About Minerva Foods
Minerva Foods is the largest beef exporter in South America and operates in the industrialized segment, selling its products to more than 100 countries across 5 continents. In addition to Brazil, Minerva Foods is present in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, and Colombia, and has specialized sheep plants in Australia and Chile. The company supplies five continents with beef, lamb, and their by-products and currently operates 46 industrial units, 17 international offices, and 23 distribution centers.
About MyCarbon
MyCarbon is a subsidiary of Minerva Foods, a leading exporter of beef in South America. The Company’s goal is to originate carbon credits and connect them to companies that wish to neutralize their emissions in a transparent, safe and sustainable manner. The company develops and markets carbon credits in line with international standards, creating financial opportunities for nature conservation, accelerating climate action and promoting a low-carbon future.
Riyadh, 6th October 2024 – FII Institute is delighted to announce a strategic partnership with Riyadh Air. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both organizations, uniting their shared commitment to driving positive global impact. As an international, inclusive platform, the FII Institute fosters collaboration among leading minds to develop innovative solutions for the world’s most pressing challenges. By joining forces, Riyadh Air gains exclusive access to the FII Institute’s network, including participation in prestigious annual flagship Conference and other international summits; opportunities to interact with world-renowned leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators and access to in-depth analysis and insights on global trends, emerging technologies, and pressing challenges.
Riyadh Air, the new Saudi Arabia national carrier, envisions a future where aviation is a means of transportation and a catalyst for positive change. The airline’s mission is to redefine the travel experience by offering exceptional service, innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Riyadh Air is dedicated to operating a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft fleet and exploring sustainable aviation technologies to reduce its environmental footprint. The airline aims to contribute to a more sustainable future by implementing eco-friendly practices, promoting responsible tourism, and supporting local communities.
The signing ceremony, held in Riyadh, brought together CEO, Tony Douglas and Richard Attias, CEO of FII Institute, to set the stage for a transformative collaboration aimed at fostering growth and driving innovation within the region and beyond.
Combining Riyadh Air’s aviation excellence and FII Institute’s unwavering commitment to shaping the future through its impactful global initiatives, this partnership represents a powerful union of expertise and vision. With a shared dedication to driving positive change through the power of investment, Riyadh Air and FII Institute will join together to drive positive change and shape the future of sustainable development.
This strategic partnership comes on the heels of the announcement of the 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII8) conference set for October 29-31 in Riyadh under the theme “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow.” It promises to convene today’s greatest minds to share their global perspectives, unlocking new frontiers for human advancement and impactful innovation. FII8 stands poised to transcend limitations and explore boundless opportunities for progress.
In statements echoing their enthusiasm for the partnership, the CEO of Riyadh Air and the CEO of FII Insitute expressed their confidence in the transformative impact that this collaboration will bring to the aviation sector and beyond.
Richard Attias, CEO of the FII Institute, celebrated this partnership stating, “Riyadh Air and FII Institute are united in our commitment to unlocking sustainable opportunities that drive positive global impact. We will leverage our expertise to develop innovative solutions and create a more sustainable future for aviation and society as a whole.”
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air noted “Our strategic partnership with FII is a strong signal of our ambitions to participate in sharing of ideas to help drive positive global impact. Riyadh Air will be at the cutting edge of shaping the aviation industry of the future through continued innovation and best practices in sustainability”
END
Media Inquiries
Please address any inquiries to: media@fii-institute.org
About FII Institute:
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is global non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global, inclusive, and driven by data: we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions and actions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.
About Riyadh Air
Riyadh Air is a world-class airline owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Launched in March 2023, the airline will be a digitally led, full-service airline that adopts the best global sustainability and safety practices across its advanced fleet of aircraft. Riyadh Air will equip its aircraft with the most advanced, state-of-the-art features with innovative, best-in-class cabin interiors and experiences, including next generation digital in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity solutions. Riyadh Air will connect guests to over 100 destinations around the world by 2030 through offering an exceptional guest experience with an authentic, warm Saudi hospitality at its heart.
For more information, please visit our website: www.riyadhair.com or contact us on Media@riyadhair.com
12.09.24, RIYADH – GFH Financial Group (“GFH” or “the Group”), a leading and dynamic financial institution headquartered in Bahrain, and FII Institute, a global non-profit foundation dedicated to making an Impact on Humanity, are thrilled to announce the three years extension of a groundbreaking strategic partnership aimed at fostering global innovation and sustainable development ahead of the highly anticipated 8th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative Conference (FII8) scheduled for October 29-31 in Riyadh.
To set the stage for a transformative collaboration aimed at fostering growth and driving innovation in investment within the region and beyond, a signing ceremony was held with the presence of Mr. Richard Attias, the Chief Executive Officer of FII Institute between Sahar Qanati, Head of Corporate Communications at GFH, and Rakan Tarabzoni, Chief Operating Officer of FII Institute.
GFH and FII Institute aim to leverage their combined strengths to drive meaningful change. GFH’s legacy of financial excellence coupled with FII Institute’s unwavering commitment to shaping the future, will enable the partnership to spearhead impactful global initiatives. This collaboration underscores a shared vision of fostering economic development and prosperity while prioritizing sustainability and social impact.
This strategic partnership further aligns with the highly anticipated FII8 conference being held under the theme “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow, where the world’s brightest minds of visionaries, policymakers, leaders, top CEOs investors, academia, NGOs, entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, activists, and media will convene to share global perspectives, unlocking new frontiers for human advancement and impactful innovation.
Richard Attias, CEO of the FII Institute, celebrated this partnership stating,
“Following the energizing FII7 and successful summits in Miami, Rio De Janeiro and Hong Kong, GFH also supported our journey of producing high-quality reports, global indices, and grassroots initiatives and is also positioned to make an even greater impact. Together, we will continue to drive positive change and create a better world.”
For its part, GFH emphasized its commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable growth. As a leading regional financial group with a global reach, the Group remains dedicated to investing in sectors that drive economic development and create a lasting positive impact on communities and economies. Through this partnership, GFH aims to continue shaping the future of impactful investments, driving forward innovation that aligns with its vision of growth, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
Media Inquiries
Please address any inquiries to: media@fii-institute.org
About FII Institute:
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is global non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global, inclusive, and driven by data: we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions and actions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.
About GFH Financial Group:
GFH Financial Group is a leading dynamic financial institution headquartered in Bahrain, renowned for its innovative approach to banking, investment strategies, and development projects. GFH is one of the most recognised financial groups in the Gulf region. Its businesses include Asset Management, Wealth Management, Commercial Banking and Real Estate Development. The Group’s operations are focused in the GCC, North Africa and India. GFH is listed in Bahrain Bourse, Abu Dhabi Securitas Exchange, Boursa Kuwait and Dubai Financial Market. For more information, please visit www.gfh.com
13 June 2024
Rio de Janeiro—The third and final day of the FII PRIORITY Rio de Janeiro Summit concluded with pivotal discussions on global economic growth and sustainability. Organised by the FII Institute, the summit attracted nearly 1,500 global leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs who participated in over 65 sessions. Delegates attended solution-focused conclaves, and observed FII Institute’s first Innovators Pitch, setting the stage for the final series at FII Institute’s 8th flagship Future Investment Initiative (FII) in October.
The day began with a fireside chat with His Excellency Geraldo Alckmin, Vice President of Brazil, who addressed foreign direct investment and the global energy transition. He remarked, “Brazil received the second-highest foreign investment in the world during 2023, trailing only the United States. Our recent tax reforms are expected to enhance this further,” he told the audience, setting a collaborative and forward-looking tone for the day.
Another highlight was the session titled ‘Message to the G20’, featuring a thought-provoking discussion with five former Latin American leaders, moderated by FII Institute CEO Richard Attias. H.E. Felipe Calderon, Former President of Mexico; H.E. Laura Chinchilla, Former President of Costa Rica; H.E. Alberto Fernández, Former President of Argentina; H.E. Jorge Quiroga, Former President of Bolivia; and H.E. Juan Manuel Santos, Former President of Colombia and Nobel Peace Prize Recipient, encouraged attendees to be the change they want to see in the world, emphasising the importance of collective effort in combating climate change and upholding the rule of law for a prosperous future for all.
Marcelo Claure of Claure Group and SHEIN emphasised the importance of equitable access to AI, noting, “AI is the great equaliser. We can bridge the divide between emerging and developed markets in education and healthcare.” Commenting on the future of AI and its integration within various industries, Claure added “with the internet, the cost of information went down to zero and disrupted the advertising business. Then, ecommerce disrupted the retail space. My vision of AI is that it will disrupt all, other untouched industries.”
In a session titled ‘Rulebreakers: What Global Megatrends Are Influencing the World’s Top Investors?’, Claure was joined by Sir Martin Sorrell of S4 Capital, who discussed the need for adaptation to technological advances, stating, “Henry Ford created the five-day working week. COVID-19 accelerated the shift to remote working. Now, technologies like AI and the Metaverse will push this evolution further.”
In keeping with Rio de Janeiro’s entrepreneurial spirit, the summit saw FII Institute’s first-ever Innovators Pitch Competition. Nine startups presented solutions to pressing global issues in AI & Robotics, Education, Healthcare, and Sustainability. Hera Health Solution emerged as the main winner, a startup focusing on an AI-enabled drug delivery platform, with Aravita securing the People’s Choice award. The startup offers an optimised fresh food ordering service with AI, reducing waste and stockouts to boost grocer profits.
Throughout the summit, FII Institute convened industry experts to address critical global issues in its conclave series, covering topics such as AI, ocean regeneration, energy transition, and ESG. Industry leaders advocated for a collaborative approach to sustainability, the deployment of AI in emerging markets, and ESG’s focus on climate resilience. Emphasis was placed on inclusive policies, targeted investment, and mentorship to empower entrepreneurs in developing regions.
With the closing of FII PRIORITY Rio de Janeiro Summit, FII Institute will now shift its focus to the forthcoming 8th FII in October, where the momentum generated in Rio will continue to drive impactful discussions and initiatives. The conference is slated for 29 to 31 October 2024, under the theme ‘Infinite Horizons’.
12 June 2024
Rio de Janeiro—The inaugural three-day Latin America FII PRIORITY Summit, powered by FII Institute, commenced on Tuesday at the Copacabana Palace Hotel in Rio de Janeiro. Convening global officials, along with business leaders from various sectors, the event will tackle pressing issues under the theme “Invest in Dignity.” The Summit welcomed over 1,500 delegates, who attended 66 sessions featuring more than 190 speakers.
The opening ceremony included remarks by the CEO of FII Institute, Richard Attias; His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund, Chairman of Saudi ARAMCO, and Chairman of the Board of FII Institute; and the President of the Republic of Brazil, His Excellency Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
In his opening remarks, Attias said, “Today, we gather with a shared mission: to invest in dignity. Dignity is not just a concept; it is a fundamental human right that should be accessible to every individual, regardless of their background, economic status, or social standing.” He added, “In this room, we have the collective power to drive meaningful change. Our collaboration, innovation, and determination can transform lives and communities.”
A fireside chat with Al-Rumayyan highlighted the rising role of Brazil in global investment and economic growth. “There are 12,000 new start-ups, and 12 or 16 unicorns were created here. The potential in Brazil is really big,” he said. When asked about why FII Institute brought the summit to Rio, His Excellency said, “Why did we host the FII in Rio? The question is: Why not? This is one of the greatest cities not only in Brazil, but the world. At the same time, we will have the G20 and COP30.”
For his part, President Lula said, “We all want to make the world capable of welcoming all its inhabitants with dignity—and not just a privileged minority.” The President also highlighted Brazil’s evolving economic and investment landscapes, saying, “The choice to host FII in Rio shows that this is a sign of trust in our country from over 1,000 participants. I’m here to show that Brazil is worthy of this trust.”
The Summit’s flagship Board of Changemakers session featured several notable speakers, including H.R.H. Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud, the Saudi Ambassador to the United States; Magda Chambriard of Petrobras; Marcelo Claure of Claure Group and SHEIN; Bernard Mensah of Bank of America and MLI; Secretary Mike Pompeo, 70th Secretary of State of the United States and Executive Chairman of Impact Investments; and Sir Martin Sorrell of S4 Capital Group.
During the session, Princess Reema stressed the importance of dignity as a collective responsibility, further underscoring the theme of the summit. She said, “We all have a responsibility for the way we speak, think, and engage with people. Dignity is an individual concept, but it is a collective responsibility.” For her part, Ms. Chambriard noted Brazil’s role in the broader global context in maintaining citizen dignity, saying, “The idea is to exercise the power of using all the Brazilian resources and investing based on the respect of the Brazilian society.”
Visionary Brazilian entrepreneur and media personality Luciano Huck and Cecilia Attias, who is Senior VP of Public Affairs and Board Member, RA&A, and Founder and President of the Cecilia Attias Foundation for Women, covered the intersection of media, politics, and responsibility towards both. During the Titan of Industry session, Huck stressed that “The privilege of speaking to 35 million people on global TV is the freedom of speech. I do not treat it as power, but a tremendous responsibility.”
Executives from Goldman Sachs, Franklin Templeton, Morgan Stanley, and Patria Investments set the tone for the rest of the day in a session tackling global market volatility and disruptions and the impact on investors. Exploring a range of approaches, from backing national champions to diversifying across asset classes, the discussion centred on ways to build resilient portfolios, with key insights shared by prominent industry leaders.
Among the notable announcements of the first day of FII PRIORITY Rio de Janeiro, Richard Attias, CEO of FII Institute, announced the Institute’s latest flagship initiative, FII Institute TV. Set to launch fully in the coming months, FII Institute TV is a 24/7 platform offering enhanced content curation, in-depth interviews with global leaders, and expert analysis.
Furthermore, FII Institute’s strategic partner, THIQAH, made a significant announcement for BRICS+ countries, launching their “Certificate of Origin” platform in Brazil in collaboration with CICIBAS. The platform enables exporters and manufacturers to issue and track the status of certificates of origin for manufactured products through a single electronic platform, contributing to a transformation in the commercial and industrial sectors.
11 June 2024
Rio de Janeiro— FII Institute is honoured to announce that Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will speak at the inaugural Latin America FII PRIORITY Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 12 June, marking a significant milestone for the summit.
President Lula, who will be joined by several high-ranking Brazilian and Latin American government officials, underscores the importance of FII PRIORITY Rio in addressing key global priorities and promoting investment opportunities. His attendance is a testament to Brazil’s integral role in shaping the future of global investment and sustainability.
“We are deeply honoured by President Lula’s decision to join us,” said Richard Attias, CEO of FII Institute. “As a global leader, his leadership and vision will greatly enrich our discussions and initiatives. The theme of our summit, ‘Invest in Dignity,’ was inspired by President Lula’s vision.”
The FII PRIORITY Rio de Janeiro Summit will take place at the Copacabana Palace from 11 to 13 June 2024, featuring a rich and diverse programme with world-renowned leaders and critical discussions on global issues.
For more information, please visit: https://fii-institute.org/Program-Rio. For media enquiries, please email: media@fii-institute.org and fii-institute@fsb.com.br.
About FII Institute
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global non-profit foundation driven by data with an investment arm focused on impactful initiatives for humanity. Through its PRIORITY Summits, the institute brings together leading minds to foster innovation and sustainable solutions across the globe.
RIYADH: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), the leading financial institution in Kuwait, and FII Institute, a global non-profit foundation dedicated to making an Impact on Humanity, marked a significant milestone today with the official announcement of their strategic partnership. The signing ceremony, held in Riyadh, brought together Anas AlUbaid, GM of NBK KSA; Musaad AlSudairy, CEO of NBK Wealth KSA; and Rakan Tarabzoni, COO of FII Institute, to set the stage for a transformative collaboration aimed at fostering growth and driving innovation in investment within the region and beyond.
Combining NBK’s legacy of financial excellence and FII Institute’s unwavering commitment to shaping the future through its impactful global initiatives, this partnership represents a powerful union of expertise and vision. With a shared dedication to driving positive change through the power of investment, NBK and FII Institute will join together to drive innovation.
This strategic partnership comes on the heels of the announcement of the 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII8) conference set for October 29-31 in Riyadh under the theme “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow.” It promises to convene today’s greatest minds to share their global perspectives, unlocking new frontiers for human advancement and impactful innovation. FII8 stands poised to transcend limitations and explore boundless opportunities for progress.
In statements echoing their enthusiasm for the partnership, the CEO of NBK Wealth KSA and the GM of NBK KSA expressed their confidence in the transformative impact that this collaboration will bring to the financial sector and beyond, Musaad AlSudairy, CEO of NBK Wealth KSA said, “We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with the FII Institute, a strategic alliance that will empower our clients globally and catalyze sustainable development. Together, we are not only investing in a brighter future but also unlocking new pathways for innovation, growth, and community prosperity. This partnership to address key global issues aligns perfectly with NBK’s commitment to creating meaningful impact. Collectively, we will explore actionable solutions of the future, reinforcing our shared dedication to a sustainable and prosperous future.”
Anas AlUbaid, GM of NBK KSA, underscored this sentiment by highlighting, “At NBK, we share the FII Institute’s dedication to addressing global challenges through collaboration and innovation. By aligning our efforts, we aim to leverage our combined expertise to generate insights and solutions that will drive sustainable growth and improve lives worldwide. This partnership represents a significant step towards creating a more resilient and equitable future, benefiting not only our clients but also the global community.”
Richard Attias, CEO of FII Institute, emphasized the importance of partnering with esteemed international institutions like the National Bank of Kuwait, known for its trusted seven-decade history and progressive approach to finance. He stated, “The deployment of strategic capital plays a crucial role in addressing the most pressing global challenges. Our collaboration with NBK represents a convergence of expertise and resources, advancing our collective mission to drive positive change and develop innovative solutions through our initiatives and programs.”
Media Inquiries
Please address any inquiries to: media@fii-institute.org
About FII Institute:
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is global non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global, inclusive, and driven by data: we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions and actions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.
About the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK):
Established in the heart of Kuwait City in 1952, the National Bank of Kuwait S.A.K.P. (‘NBK’ or the ‘Bank’) stands as the cornerstone of the nation’s financial landscape. As the first shareholding company in Kuwait and the Gulf Cooperation Council (‘GCC’), NBK has been a steadfast pioneer, establishing itself as the country’s longest-serving local bank. With over 70 years of unwavering commitment, NBK has evolved into Kuwait’s preeminent financial institution, extending its influence far beyond national borders to captivate regional and global markets. Through a successful digital transformation journey, NBK has seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, earning acclaim and trust among stakeholders. Today, the Bank boasts a network of more than 140 branches spread across 13 countries, spanning 4 continents.
Established by a group of leading Kuwaiti merchants, NBK has retained its core shareholder base since inception. Its shares have been listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange since 1984, with a single shareholder (the Public Institution for Social Security) owning more than 5% of the share capital (6.0% as of 31 December 2023). NBK’s market capitalization as of 31 December 2023 was USD 23.1 billion.
Renowned for its seasoned and stable management, NBK pursues a clear strategy aimed at strengthening its core business while expanding into new segments and markets. The Bank has consistently achieved remarkable profitability, resulting in robust shareholder returns. This success is underpinned by a portfolio of high-quality assets and a robust level of capitalization.
NBK prides itself in being a comprehensive financial partner, offering a diverse range of products and services. Catering to individuals, corporates, and financial institutions alike, NBK has solidified its position as Kuwait’s leading conventional banking Group in terms of assets, customer deposits, and customer loans and advances, all the while Empowering Tomorrow and Navigating a Digitized and Sustainable Future.