Riyadh Hosts Future Investment Initiative Conference, Driving Global Growth

Photo : SPA

The 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) conference commenced in Riyadh under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This year’s conference, themed *"Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow"*, seeks to drive sustainable development and promote growth through forward-looking investment strategies. Attendees were welcomed by FII Institute CEO Richard Attias, who expressed appreciation for the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Attias highlighted the achievements of past FII gatherings and voiced optimism about the contributions the 8th edition would bring to creating a better future for all.

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Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Chairman of Saudi Aramco, and Chairman of the FII Institute, spoke about the conference’s role as a proactive platform for progress and innovation. He noted that FII has been instrumental in generating investments exceeding $125 billion to date. Al-Rumayyan introduced the FII Priority Index, launched this week, which emphasizes crucial global challenges, such as economic instability, healthcare inequalities, rising costs of living, social disparities, and geopolitical tensions. 

Reflecting on the conference theme, Al-Rumayyan pointed to the expansive opportunities in sustainable, long-term investments that address these challenges. Priority areas include advancements in green technologies, healthcare innovation, and engaging youth through sports. He remarked, “Economic, social, and environmental outcomes are interconnected, and these must be at the core of our decision-making processes. Emerging markets, with their potential for growth, show how strategic, long-term investments can accelerate economic progress.”

Al-Rumayyan highlighted the advantages offered by Saudi Arabia’s natural resources and geographic positioning, which continue to draw major investments in energy, infrastructure, and technology. He also emphasized the transformative role of artificial intelligence, estimating that AI could contribute around $20 trillion to the global economy by 2030. According to Al-Rumayyan, AI will become a key economic benchmark by 2027, transforming sectors like healthcare and energy, and serving as an engine for productivity and innovation.

Discussing the energy sector’s potential, he noted that since 2017, major energy firms have invested over $65 billion in low-carbon technologies. Al-Rumayyan stressed the importance of balancing current energy demands with sustainable energy solutions, advocating for investments that ensure energy is a resource for future generations. "Our mission," he added, "is not only to fuel economies but to shape an energy future that supports sustained growth and prosperity."

The conference also underscores the FII Institute's commitment to inclusivity and sets ambitious goals to foster both financial success and human advancement. Al-Rumayyan concluded by expressing his hope that the discussions and collaborations at the 8th FII conference would redefine investment standards, creating solutions that meet today’s needs while paving the way for tomorrow’s innovations.

The conference, which runs over several days, will include discussions, panels, and collaboration opportunities aimed at addressing pressing global challenges and exploring how long-term, strategic investments can shape a vibrant and prosperous future for the global economy and humanity.