TLDR:
- Venture capitalists in Qatar discuss the challenges of the market at the Qatar Economic Forum.
- The UAE sees increased trade with China amid new U.S. trade sanctions.
In the final day of the Qatar Economic Forum, venture capitalists in Qatar discussed the challenges of the venture capital market, particularly how it is being reshaped by artificial intelligence. Noor Sweid, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures, highlighted that despite global decreases in deal activity and check sizes, the region’s startups are adapting to these changes by integrating AI tools into their businesses.
Meanwhile, the UAE has become a welcoming hub for Chinese investments in the Middle East, with investments increasing by 16% to $1.3 billion last year. This trend has also been reciprocated, with the UAE increasing its investments in China by 120%.
Additionally, the article discusses the closing of Mubadala’s acquisition of Fortress Investment Group, as well as the slimming down of the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s U.S. equities portfolio.
Other key points in the article include:
- Qatar’s plans to expand its gas industry and boost LNG capacity.
- The signing of a preliminary agreement between AlUla and Huawei’s Petal Ads for tourism promotion.
- ADIA’s involvement in a buyout deal and M42’s AI tool for tuberculosis screening.
- Hassana Investment Co.’s commitment to TPG Rise Climate’s Transition Infrastructure fund.
The article also highlights various investments, developments, and events in the region, from insurance IPOs and installment plans to technology innovations and infrastructure projects, showcasing the dynamic economic landscape in the Middle East. With a focus on venture capital, trade, and investment activities, the article provides insights into key developments shaping the region’s economic future.
