More than 25 industry experts will take part in the 20th edition of the Middle East capital markets conference starting tomorrow (October 25) in Abu Dhabi.

The two-day event,  at Crowne Plaza, will comprise a conference and a master-class on ‘Rebuilding Growth – Focus on the Future’.

Keynote speakers at the conference, organised by Meed, will include Jeff Singer, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai; Khalid Deeb, director-general of the Abu Dhabi center for corporate governance; Dr. Jarmo Kotilaine, chief economist of National Commercial Bank; Zeina Tabari, chief corporate affairs officer of Drake and Scull International; and Gaurang Desai, chief operating officer of Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange (DGCX).

“The conference will explore the potential for resumption of regional initial public offerings, the global macro-economic scenario, impact of the euro crises on regional markets, global sovereign debt issues and their impact on the GCC markets, investor and issuer attitudes to the debt-versus-equity issue, as well as measures to tackle the challenge of declining volumes in regional markets, the sukuk market, role of private equity, and current debt issuance activities”, said a spokesperson.

Edmund O’Sullivan, chairman of Meed, said: “In a region that is renowned for business enterprises and governments looking at raising long-term funds, the Middle East capital markets conference will aim to provide a fresh perspective on the regional investment landscape. Industry experts will offer their insight into developing the capital markets in the region to better compete with conventional finance.

“This conference will give attendees an opportunity to listen, debate and introduce business to the leaders of the regional capital markets and network with the market makers, analysts and issuers in a uniquely integrated environment,” he said. - TradeArabia News Service