CFI.co Blog - Page 25 of 47 - Business, Finance, Economics

When potential investors scour the marketplace for possible investment ventures, the vetting process consists of a series of checks, investigations and an extensive due diligence process to help ensure that the selected investment opportunity is the right fit. The type of investor attracted to your start-up business will depend on a series of factors, such as investment returns available, financial growth opportunities and brand identity, all of which should be extensively detailed in a comprehensive and creative business plan, complemented by an innovative pitch.

What are potential investors looking for in a start-up business?

Your business plan will be the teller of all tales, detailing how you wish to breathe life into a concept, developing it into a fully-fledged business, worthy of investment. It will illustrate the direction that you wish to take your business in, your operational structure, marketing strategies, business development practices and a contingency plan. We share insight into what potential investors look for in a start-up business.

Return opportunities

There are numerous types of investors with varied expectations and offerings, such as industry background, sector experience, market share, vested interests and investment potential. The criteria will differ depending on the type of investor, such as family and friends which are typically the first port of call as they are easily accessible, there are no intermediaries involved and it’s a low-cost investment. If your family or friends contribute significantly to your business, mitigate the risk by signing a contract detailing the finer details and clarifying expectations.

You may turn to a traditional business loan to borrow start-up finance which will have less flexibility than an alternative finance facility and there are also government grants designed to support start-ups. In return, the bank may require you to sign a personal guarantee agreement in addition to committing to repayments. If you are unable to repay your start-up loan, the personal guarantee agreement will allow the lender to hold you personally liable for the debt, putting your personal assets at risk.

Corporate and entrepreneurial investors are dedicated to investing in new talent and nurturing new businesses from their inception. Many now have accelerators and incubators to support the birth of new businesses through knowledge sharing, providing seed capital and giving access to state-of-the-art resources. Angel investors are professional investors which can also offer mentorship in addition to flexible finance.

Each type of investor will expect a financial return differing in value or a stake in the business. It is also common practice to establish a set of targets for the start-up to achieve to access further investment.

Financial growth

The financial targets of a start-up are likely to be modest until the business establishes the brand, actively markets to consumers and accumulates cash from sales and investments. Your financial aims are a core determining factor for investors as they will actively look to invest to generate a profit, so prepare a realistic estimation of your forecasted income and financial targets to depict investment returns.

Service development

Investors looking to actively invest will be on the lookout for a start-up with a clear and established view of the future – not a short-sighted business plan. Ensure that you cover multiple eventualities for a service extension which are realistic and within your financial means. Focus on the imminent future of your start-up and provide a view into how you would establish partnerships and focus on business development to help expand your offering, e.g. taking the B2B route to target client clusters, in addition to B2B. This journey, if successful, will help increase your market share in addition to brand development, ongoing marketing efforts and advertising.

Brand development

Start-ups can formally and informally approach investors through innovative platforms, sharing their growth journey from day one, including updates and offering product trials. Online reward and equity funding platforms, Kickstarter, Indiegogo and GoFundMe are examples of popular crowdfunding sites which can assist with brand exposure, in addition to encouraging contributions from professional investors and interested individuals.

If your start-up is likely to depend on establishing an online presence for conversions, invest in web development services early in the process, such as for search engine optimisation purposes. Your public relations and marketing strategy will also indicate to the investor the level of exposure your start-up is likely to receive.

Contingency and business rescue plan

The formation of a contingency plan in the event the business takes an unexpected turn will indicate your awareness of the risks associated with starting up a business. The resilience of start-ups has been highlighted in no better way than during the coronavirus pandemic. As many have reacted fast to economic uncertainties, business growth has been inevitably limited, halting the creation of new jobs. Many young and veteran businesses have found ways to overcome the pressures of the pandemic and capitalise off new opportunities, showing how determination and creativity can help increase business prospects during unstable times.

In addition to your business plan, investors will be interested in the business driver as the success of their investment will initially lie with you. The approach you take to interact with investors will help shed light on your mind-set and risk appetite. Taking a business idea and developing this into a tangible entity requires patience and willpower, in addition to industry experience to help you make decisions in the best interests of the business. Investors are interested in ambitious start-up owners who have the passion to inspire others with their business vision, helping to build a strong infrastructure for the business.

During the vetting process, you will receive constructive criticism, helpful suggestions and recommendations, instrumental to the success of your start-up. Keeping an open mind can help give you the flexibility to steer your business in the direction required to secure investors, taking into consideration the industry understanding and market experience of your investor.

Jon Munnery is a partner at UK Liquidators, a firm of licensed insolvency practitioners providing company recovery and liquidation advice to company directors in financial distress, include Covid-19 business support services.

Banking

8 Signs You Need to Switch to a New Bank

ByCFI.co

In 2018, over two-thirds of adults from the UK used some form of online banking. Though you may not think of banking and finance work as exciting or high-stakes, the field is evolving rapidly. As banking moves more and more digital, you may be wondering if your current bank is keeping up.

If you’ve been thinking about switching to a new bank but are still on the fence, read on. There are a few telltale signs that it’s time to make the switch.

1. Limited Online Banking

Like we said, online banking is the newest frontier. In fact, there are many banks with no brick and mortar branches. These online-only banks are cutting-edge.

Therefore, there’s no excuse for your bank to have a clunky mobile app or inaccessible website. If your bank isn’t keeping up with the digital revolution, it may be time to go.

Of course, if you want a bank that still has physical branches, you have options as well. Many banking institutions have great technology and still allow their clients to bank in-person.

Just know that you can easily upgrade your online banking experience!

2. The Service Fees Aren’t Worth It

Some banks pull tricks to try and get as much money from you as possible. This includes raising their overdraft fees, raising minimum balances, and charging a returned mail fee.

If your bank is trying to take as much money from you as possible, run the other way. Many banks have reasonable fees, or even better, fee-free banking options. Banks with lower fees are more likely to view their clients as people, rather than potential profit.

3. Your Savings Returns Are Unimpressive

Is your savings account languishing instead of growing? Are you earning pennies on your investment? Look for another bank.

You can find lots of high-yield savings account options while shopping around. These typically offer between 1.2% and 3% interest rates, while some banks only offer around .6%.

You can make your savings account work for you, instead of the other way around. Research other institutions and their high-yield account options.

4. Getting Your Money Is A Hassle

With the advent of online banking, getting access to your money should be easier than ever. If a bank offers anything less than lightning-fast transfers, they’re being left behind.

You may think that having slow access to your funds is a compromise worth making. But if you encounter any sort of emergency and need money immediately, you’ll wish you’d switched to a lower-hassle institution.

Avoid banks that take a long time to finalize your deposits. Look for ones that will let you use your money as soon as you leave the branch.

5. You Have Monthly Fees On Your Checking Account

Your current bank may have a surprisingly low monthly rate. However, even £10 is too much when it could be £0!

Many banks offer an option where you only have to pay a monthly fee if you are below the minimum balance. But others have neither a minimum balance nor a monthly fee. Shop around and see what your local institutions offer.

A monthly fee to keep your checking account is a sign that a bank views you as a number instead of a person. Monthly bank fees are unpopular among consumers, so many institutions are doing away with them altogether. Don’t settle for a low monthly rate when you could have none!

6. The Minimum Balance Is Too High

Some banks offer high-yield checking and savings accounts but also require a higher minimum balance. If you’re in a tighter spot than you were when you opened your account, you may have trouble keeping the minimum balance.

This is one of the most practical reasons to switch banks. If you cannot afford to stay with your original bank, you can find high-yield accounts elsewhere. You may have to compromise, but that’s okay.

The stress of meeting an unattainable minimum balance isn’t worth it. You can make this easier on yourself by making a change.

7. Lack Of Accessible ATMs

Though the world is moving more and more online, there are still situations in which you need cash. Though there seems to be an ATM on every corner, some banks charge exorbitant fees to use out-of-network machines.

If you can only use your bank’s proprietary machines without paying a fee, finding the right ATM can be a hassle. This becomes an even worse problem when the right ATMs are few and far between.

Find a bank that has convenient ATMs, or doesn’t charge ATM withdrawal fees. You deserve convenience, and shouldn’t have to pay to access your money!

8. Customer Service Is Rude Or Unhelpful

When you encounter a problem with your bank, their customer service should be swift, polite, and helpful. You should not settle for less, especially when it comes to your money!

Your bank should make it easy to contact customer service. There should be multiple methods of contacting them: instant chat, phone number, email. The representatives should be kind and helpful.

If you have had multiple bad experiences with a bank’s customer service, it’s probably time to switch. Even if there is little else to critique about your bank, bad customer service can drive you away. Your bank should be working to make sure you stay with them for as long as possible.

Find A New Bank That Puts You First

When looking for a new bank, you may not be sure if it’s really time to change. There will always be a million reasons to stay, but just know, you don’t have to settle. The field of banking is advancing fast, and you can have a better banking experience than ever.

Don’t be afraid to do your research. Don’t make your decision in haste, and ensure that your new bank works for you.

For more advice, trends, and market analysis, read through our blog. At Capital Finance International, we strive to bring you finance news that’s interesting and helpful. If you want to learn more about how to bank better, read our blogs now.

Banking

A framework agreement of cooperation between IsDB and Standard Chartered Bank

ByCFI.co Blogger

IsDB President Dr. Bandar Hajjar and M. Sunil Kaushal, CEO for Africa and Middle East, Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), signed a Memorandum of Agreement to participate in IsDB’s Restore Track Program aimed to supporting IsDB’s member countries’ private sector through stimulus packages to the economic sectors most impacted by the CoVID19 pandemic.

A framework agreement of cooperation between IsDB and Standard Chartered Bank

This agreement leverages on IsDB’s $2Bn “COVID Guarantee Facility” to establish an operational cooperation framework for IsDB and SCB to facilitate financing arrangements to IsDB’s Member Countries.

The COVID pandemic has disrupted international financial channels and put pressure on hard currency inflows to Emerging Markets. This pressure led to considerable limitations of the private sector’s access to financial liquidity. Combined with the loss of income due to reduced demand, the health crisis poses unprecedented challenges to the private sector and especially SMEs.

Through its cooperation with Standard Chartered Bank, IsDB aims to help alleviate some of these pressures by providing blended lines of finance to local banks at competitive prices.

“I am glad to see our, already strong, relationship with Standard Chartered Bank further strengthened with this unique and innovative partnership” stated H.E IsDB’s President, Dr. Bandar Al Hajjar. He also expressed his firm conviction that SCB’s funding expertise added to IsDBG de-risking guarantees will make a lasting impact for IsDB’s Members Countries.

M. Sunil Kaushal expressed his thanks to IsDB for the developing partnership between the two institutions noting that IsDB is the first Bank to sign such agreement with SCB. He also expressed his strong commitment to support IsDB member countries to fight COVID-19.

Both agree that this “out of the box” partnerships between MDBs and the private sector are now necessary to overcome the challenges of our times.

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) is a multilateral development bank (MDB) counting 57 member countries across four continents – touching the lives of 1 in 5 of the world’s population.

IsDB works to improve the lives of those it serves by promoting social and economic development, delivering impact at scale. IsDB is one of the world’s most active MDBs, and global leaders in Islamic Finance, with a AAA rating. Headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, IsDB is a truly global institution with major hubs in Morocco, Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Senegal; and gateway offices in Egypt, Turkey, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Nigeria.

Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) is a leading international banking group, with a presence in 60 of the world’s most dynamic markets and serving clients in a further 85. SCB’s purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through it unique diversity, and heritage; and values are expressed in it brand promise, “Here for good”.

Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong Stock Exchanges.

Conferences

Successful Swiss WBP Forum with Great Keynotes & Discussions

ByCFI.co Blogger

Women’s Brain Project (WBP)

WBP is a Swiss-based international non-profit organization (www.womensbrainproject.com) focused on sex and gender determinants of brain and mental health as a gateway to precision medicine.

WBP’s mission is “Identifying specific needs related to women’s brain health, advocating for change, and positioning the findings for the benefit of the society.”

In September 2020, WBP held an international Forum out of Zurich, Switzerland. You can still register and access all the content, from insightful keynotes to the recordings of the live discussions, see below:

WBP Forum 2020

CFI.co’s Chairman Tor Svensson is an adviser to and keen supporter of WBP. See his keynote speech for the Forum here:

Should you wish to make a charitable donation for the new WBP research centre of excellence under planning in Switzerland, please contact Tor Svensson at email tor@cfi.co to discuss.

For further info contact: www.womensbrainproject.com

Economics

Global foreign direct investment falls 49%, outlook remains negative

ByCFI.co Blogger

The biggest drops occurred in developed countries, cutting across all major forms of foreign direct investment.

Global foreign direct investment (FDI) flows fell 49% in the first half of 2020 compared to 2019, due to the economic fallout from COVID-19, reveals UNCTAD’s latest Global Investment Trends Monitor released on 27 October.

In the wake of the pandemic, lockdowns around the world slowed existing investment projects and the prospects of a deep recession led multinational enterprises to reassess new projects.

“The FDI decline is more drastic than we expected, particularly in developed economies. Developing economies weathered the storm relatively better for the first half of the year,” said James Zhan, UNCTAD’s investment and enterprise director. “The outlook remains highly uncertain.”

Developed economies suffer steepest fall

According to the report, developed economies saw the biggest fall, with FDI reaching an estimated $98 billion in the six-month period – a decline of 75% compared to 2019.

The trend was exacerbated by sharply negative inflows in European economies, mainly in the Netherlands and Switzerland. FDI flows to North America fell by 56% to $68 billion.

Meanwhile, the 16% decrease in FDI flows to developing economies was less than expected, due mainly to resilient investment in China. Flows decreased by just 12% in Asia but were 28% lower than in 2019 in Africa and 25% lower in Latin America and the Caribbean.

In the six months to June 2020, developing countries in Asia accounted for more than half of global FDI. Flows to economies in transition were down 81% due to a strong decline in the Russian Federation.

The decline cut across all major forms of FDI, the report shows.

The report shows that cross-border M&A values reached $319 billion in the first three quarters of 2020. The 21% decline in developed countries, which account for about 80% of global transactions, was checked by the continuation of M&A activity in digital industries.

The value of greenfield investment project announcements – an indicator of future FDI trends – was $358 billion in the first eight months of 2020. Developing economies saw a much bigger fall (-49%) than developed economies (-17%), reflecting their more limited capacity to roll out economic support packages.

The number of announced cross-border project finance deals declined by 25%, with the biggest drops in the third quarter of 2020, suggesting that the slide is still accelerating.

Figure 1: Global investment thermometers, 2020 Q1-Q3
(Percent change vs 2019)
Source: UNCTAD
*The trend in greenfield projects refers to the first eight months of 2020.
**International project finance refers to (the trend in) the number of deals, as project values for the latest months are unavailable.

Figure 2: FDI inflows by region, 2020 H1 vs 2019 6-month average
(Billions of US dollars and percent)
Source: UNCTAD

Outlook for full year remains negative

Prospects for the full year remain in line with UNCTAD’s earlier projections of a 30% to 40% decrease in FDI flows, the report indicates.

The rate of decline in developed economies is likely to flatten as some investment activity appeared to be picking up in the third quarter.

Flows to developing economies are expected to stabilize, with east Asia showing signs of an impending recovery.

The flows will hinge on the duration of the health crisis and the effectiveness of policy interventions to mitigate the economic effects of the pandemic. Geopolitical risks continue to add to the uncertainty.

Despite the 2020 drop, FDI remains the most important source of external finance for developing countries, according to UNCTAD. Global FDI stock stood at $37 trillion at the end of 2019.

Finance

7 Factors to Consider Before Choosing Financial Advisors

ByCFI.co

A Financial Advice Market Review survey found that 1 in 10 adults in the UK sought financial advice within a 12 month period.

We’ve harped on before about why everyone needs a financial advisor, but how do you go about choosing financial advisors?

What you need in a financial advisor will vary depending on your individual circumstances. That being said, there are seven simple rules to follow to find the best financial advisor for you.

1. Know What You Need

You’ve decided you need a financial advisor, but what services do you require from them?

Are you looking to invest wisely, to plan for retirement, or do you need advice on taxes?

Financial advisors offer a wide array of financial services, from investment management through to business finance plans. Only you know exactly the advice you need, but be clear on this before you even begin looking for a financial advisor. The normal financial advisor services are:

Debt Management
Budgeting
Health and long term care planning
Estate planning
Retirement
Inheritance
Tax planning
Investments

Whether you need specific advice on one aspect of your finances or a variety of services, the financial advisor you choose should be able to cover all these areas. Additionally, if you know you’re looking for long-term advice, keep this in mind when choosing.

2. Financial Advising Experience

Frustratingly, nearly anyone can call themselves some kind of financial advisor. It may come under a different heading such as a financial coach or planner, but these titles come with minimum qualifications.

Due to this, it’s important to really know your potential advisor’s experience and qualifications. This ensures your money and assets are in the best hands possible.

A good financial advisor’s website should have their qualifications, education, and experience listed. Review all of these things to figure out whether their knowledge will help your unique needs.

Not all qualifications are equal. In particular, depending on your location, the qualifications to ensure your advisor has are:

The Certified Financial Planner Designation
Certified Public Accountant
Enrolled Agent
Chartered Financial Analyst
Accredited Financial Counsellor

3. Comparing Advisor Fees

It should go without saying that you should do research into different fees for any service. This is never more pertinent advice than with financial advisors.

This is because financial advisors get paid in a few different ways, and sometimes this can be at odds with your best financial interests. For example, if your advisor is getting paid on a fee-only basis regardless of their advice, they have less incentive to grow your wealth. Whereas if they were paid on a commission and fee basis, they have more incentive to invest wisely to increase their commission.

Typically, a financial advisor will be paid one of three ways:

Fee-only
Commission
Fee-based (a mix of both)

You need to figure out what would work best for your individual circumstances.

4. Transparency

While we’re talking fees, it’s time to talk about transparency. Long gone are the days of the elusive and mysterious investment elite. If your financial advisor isn’t being upfront, ditch them.

A good financial advisor will be transparent about all fees to be charged. You should have this in writing, and they should be happy to give it to you.

Not only transparency about fees but also plans. You should be clear on what plans your financial advisor will make, as well as how regularly you can expect updates, reports, and meetings.

5. References and Reviews

Even now, word of mouth might still be one of the best ways to find a financial advisor. But if you don’t happen to know anyone, the internet is a great substitute.

As well as checking qualifications and education, you should check reviews. On their site, on Trustpilot, and on Google.

6. Performance reporting

As we mentioned briefly, you want regular reports on your assets and wealth. But it also needs to be in a digestible format. That is to say, you don’t want an array of random charts and figures you can’t actually understand.

You need clear, concise reports on performance, transactions, and holdings. You can choose how regularly you want to receive these. Whether it’s monthly, quarterly, or bi-annually, your financial advisor should be happy to provide them.

As we live in a digital world, many of these offerings may be in online services. You should know what financial planning software is in use and whether you will have access to it.

7. Talk to Your Advisor

Before signing up for anything, talk to your advisor in depth. If they’re part of a firm, know exactly who will be running your account and who you’ll be dealing with. Get to know them.

Ensure you get an initial meeting – whether by phone or in-person – and know exactly how often you’ll be speaking to them. Is it once a month or once a quarter? Will they regularly be contacting you with updates?

This is particularly important if you’re looking at long-term financial advice. Your life will change due to work, relationships, children, and so on. You need to have regular contact with your financial advisor to take these changes into account and amend your plan accordingly.

Choosing Financial Advisors

Using our tips above, you should be able to find a reliable and trustworthy financial advisor to manage your assets. Make sure to take your time choosing financial advisors, and avoid any cheap pressure tactics from firms.

For more financial advice, make sure to see our financial section to keep you up to date with the latest news.

Business

Five Largest US Oil and Gas Companies Lost $307bn in Market Cap YoY, a 45% Plunge Amid COVID-19 Crisis

ByCFI.co Blogger

Even before the coronavirus pandemic, the oil and gas industry was faced with slumping prices. However, with a record collapse in oil demand amid the coronavirus lockdown, the COVID-19 crisis has further shaken the market, causing massive revenue and market cap drops for even the largest oil and gas companies.

According to data presented by StockApps.com, the top five oil and gas companies in the United States lost over $307bn in market capitalization year-over-year, a 45% plunge amid the COVID-19 crisis.

Market Cap Still Below March Levels

Global macroeconomic concerns such as the US-China trade war and the oil overproduction set significant price drops even before the coronavirus outbreak. A standoff between Russia and Saudi Arabia in the first months of 2020 sent prices even lower.

After global oil demand plunged in March, Saudi Arabia proposed a cut in oil production, but Russia refused to cooperate. Saudi Arabia responded by increasing production and cutting prices. Shortly Russia followed by doing the same, causing an over 60% drop in crude oil prices at the beginning of 2020. Although OPEC and Russia agreed to cut oil production levels to stabilize prices a few weeks later, the COVID-19 crisis already hit. Statistics show that oil prices dropped over 40% since the beginning of 2020 and are hovering around $40 a barrel.

Such a sharp fall in oil price triggered a growing wave of oil and gas bankruptcies in the United States and caused a substantial financial hit to the largest gas producers.

In September 2019, the combined market capitalization of the five largest oil and gas producers in the United States amounted to $674.2bn, revealed the Yahoo Finance data. After the Black Monday crash in March, this figure plunged by 45% to $373bn. The following months brought a slight recovery, with the combined market capitalization of the top five US gas producers rising to over $461bn in June.

However, the fourth quarter of the year witnessed a negative trend, with the combined value of their shares falling to $367bn at the beginning of this week, $6.2bn below March levels.

Exon Mobil`s Market Cap Halved in 2020, Almost $155bn Lost YoY

In August, Exxon Mobil Corporation, once the largest publicly traded company globally, was dropped from the Dow Jones industrial average after 92 years. As the largest oil and gas producer in the United States, the company has suffered the most significant market cap drop in 2020.

Statistics indicate the combined value of Exxon Mobil`s shares plunged by 52% year-over-year, falling from almost $300bn in September 2019 to $144bn at the beginning of this week.

Phillips 66, the fourth largest gas producer in the United States by market capitalization, witnessed the second-largest drop in 2020. Statistics show the company`s market cap dipped by 49.6% year-over-year, landing at $22.9bn this week.

The Yahoo Finance data revealed that EOG Resources lost over $21bn in market cap since September 2019, the third-largest drop among the top five US gas producers.

Conoco Phillips witnessed a 42% drop in market capitalization amid the COVID-19 crisis, with the combined value of shares plunging by almost $30bn year-over-year.

Statistics show Chevron witnessed the smallest market cap drop among the top five companies. At the beginning of this week, the combined value of shares of the second-largest US gas producer stood at $141.5bn, a 36.9% plunge year-over-year.

Economics

More stimulus is welcomed – but what’s needed is smarter stimulus

ByCFI.co Blogger

Stock markets are cautiously upbeat that a stimulus package can be agreed in the U.S. before the November 3 election – but even if it does happen, it’s likely to be a “short-lived sticking plaster” that masks the major long-term issue: unemployment.

This is the warning from Nigel Green, CEO and founder of deVere Group, one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and fintech organizations.

It comes as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Secretary Steven Mnuchin spoke again on Tuesday – the deadline imposed by the Speaker – as the two sides try and strike a deal over another significant fiscal stimulus package ahead of the election.

Earlier this month, Republican senators slammed a $1.8 trillion offer made by the Trump administration to the Democrats as too big, an offer Ms Pelosi dismissed as “insufficient.”

Discussions are due to continue on Wednesday upon the Secretary’s return to Washington.

Nigel Green warns: “No doubt, a breakthrough of the deadlock that would allow for more stimulus would provide a lifeline to millions and millions of Americans.

“U.S. and global markets are, generally, cautiously optimistic that a deal can be agreed by the two sides.

“There’s a sentiment that something will have to materialize – and this is fueling markets.

“However, the window of opportunity is closing and it is not yet a done deal.

“If talks collapse, the markets will inevitably be disappointed and there’s likely to be a short-lived sell-off.”

He continues: “Even if Pelosi and Mnuchin can get another massive stimulus package agreed, and U.S. and global markets rise, this is likely to serve only as a sticking plaster.

“A market rally is going to be difficult to be sustained due to the enormous uncertainty created by other factors including the presidential election, a possible looming constitutional crisis in the world’s largest economy, and the growing Covid-19 infections in America and other major economies.”

The deVere CEO goes on to add: “Getting over the political impasse would help boost the economy and deliver much-needed money to Americans, but the major, lasting issue triggered by the pandemic remains: mass unemployment, which will hit demand, growth and investment.

“As such, a swift rebound for the U.S. economy is doubtful as unemployment claims continue to rise.

“That V-shaped recovery talked about by so many? That will be impossible with so many millions facing long-term unemployment.”

Whilst it is certainly positive that unemployment has fallen from 15% in the U.S. to 11% in recent weeks, it should be remembered that this is still at the same rate of the 2008 crash.

In addition, a second wave of soaring unemployment could hit imminently as some support measures wind-down and business’ and households’ savings and resources have been already run-down.

Mr Green concludes: “Near-term support for sure, but a long-term strategy – a multi-year vision – for growth and investment is essential.

“What’s needed is not just more stimulus, but smarter stimulus.”

Conferences

H.E. Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi Minister of State for Foreign Trade: Remarks

ByCFI.co Blogger

Annual Investment Meeting 2020

21 October 2020

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Esteemed Guests,

It is my distinct honor to welcome you to the UAE’s first-ever digital edition of the Annual Investment Meeting. Thank you to everyone participating, including our panelists from the Governments of Costa Rica, Canada, Nigeria and Russia. Today’s discussion on how countries are ensuring the free flow of trade and investment could not be more timely, especially as the world grapples with the economic recovery and moves toward building a more resilient, post-COVID economy.

As you know, the pandemic has significantly impacted global markets, creating new challenges for trade and investment. According to the United Nations’ 2020 World Investment Report, global FDI flows are estimated to decrease by up to 40% this year, dropping well below their value of $1.54 trillion in 2019. This would bring global FDI below $1 trillion for the first time since 2005. Global FDI flows are expected to decline even further in 2021, by 5% to 10%, and only in 2022 do we expect to start seeing markets recover.

While the challenges ahead are enormous, the UAE sees tremendous opportunity for governments and business leaders to work together through trade and investment to reshape policies, create new partnerships, leverage new technologies, and build a future global economy that is more diverse, inclusive, and sustainable. We know that FDI can bring new technology and know-how, lead to new jobs and growth, and is often the largest source of finance for economies – making today’s discussion even more imperative.

For the UAE, FDI has played a critical role in our economic growth. In 2019, the UAE was the largest recipient of FDI in the region, largely due to our increased focus over the years on enhancing local conditions to attract FDI. With policies and measures in place, such as our Foreign Direct Investment Law enacted in 2018 to further open the UAE market to investors in certain sectors, and the issuance of our Positive List, which allows for greater foreign investment across 122 activities, the UAE was able to increase our FDI value by 32% in 2019. The UAE also came in 16th of 190 countries in the World Bank Ease of Doing Business 2020 Ranking due to our digitization strategies and promising business regulatory environment.

The UAE is continuing to refine and implement policies that will maximize competitiveness, increase collaboration, and provide opportunities to facilitate trade and investment. Our aim is to become the #1 country for foreign investment, target zero contribution from oil to our GDP in the next 50 years, and support research, development, and innovation. The UAE’s trade and investment strategy is centered on economic diversification and focuses on enhanced investment in industries such as communications, Blockchain, artificial intelligence, robotics, and genetics. We are also initiating measures to strengthen our position as a regional leader in supplying financial and logistical services, infrastructure, energy supplies, and other services.

The UAE believes that increased partnership and cooperation with governments and the private sector will be key to achieving our objectives. We view platforms such as the Annual Investment Meeting as instrumental in bridging the gap between nations and supporting global efforts to strengthen international trade and investment. Through this platform, we hope that participants will uncover new, innovative ideas and investment opportunities needed to build back better and ensure a strong post-COVID recovery.

Thank you.

Conferences

Day 2 of Annual Investment Meeting’s First Digital Edition Continues to Gain Momentum

ByCFI.co Blogger

H.E. Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade: Our aim is to become the #1 country for foreign investment, target zero contribution from oil to our GDP in the next 50 years.
Successful Investment Roundtables for Energy and Agriculture concluded with strategies to facilitate sustainable, smart and scalable investments.
Startups took virtual centerstage as they competed at the Global Champions League 2020

Dubai, October 21, 2020 – After the huge success of its opening day, AIM Digital, the first digital edition of the Annual Investment Meeting, continued to gain momentum as it reached Day 2. The three-day mega digital event, an initiative of the Ministry fo Economy, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, concluded its second day with interactive activities that catalysed investment-generation, knowledge-enhancement, and local, regional and international collaborations.

Joined by more than 15K participants from over 170 countries, including 70+ high-level dignitaries from across the globe, the second day of AIM Dıgital witnessed a wide range of major events, from the Conference, Exhibition, Investment Roundtables, and Regional Focus sessions to Conglomerate Presentations and Startups competitions; all geared towards providing opportunities to achieve a digital, sustainable & resilient future.

AIM Digital: Virtual Village — **AIM Digital:** Virtual Village

In his keynote speech in the FDI session, Ministers Roundtable: Adapting to the New Flow of Trade and Investment, His Excellency Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, said: “It is my distinct honor to welcome you to the UAE’s first-ever digital edition of the Annual Investment Meeting. Thank you to everyone participating, including our panelists from the Governments of Costa Rica, Canada, Nigeria and Russia. Today’s discussion on how countries are ensuring the free flow of trade and investment could not be more timely, especially as the world grapples with the economic recovery and moves toward building a more resilient, post-COVID economy. The pandemic has significantly impacted global markets that created new challenges for trade and investment. While the challenges ahead are enormous, the UAE sees tremendous opportunity for governments and business leaders to work together through trade and investment to reshape policies, create new partnerships, leverage new technologies, and build a future global economy that is more diverse, inclusive, and sustainable. We know that FDI can bring new technology and know-how, lead to new jobs and growth, and is often the largest source of finance for economies – making today’s discussion even more imperative.”

He further stated that FDI has played a critical role in the UAE’s economic growth, with policies and measures in place, such as the Foreign Direct Investment Law enacted in 2018 to further open the UAE market to investors in certain sectors, and the issuance of Positive List, which allows for greater foreign investment across 122 activities, and increasing the UAE’s FDI value by 32% in 2019. He also mentioned that the UAE came in 16th of 190 countries in the World Bank Ease of Doing Business 2020 Ranking due to the country’s digitization strategies and promising business regulatory environment.

AIM Digital: Main Registration Page — **AIM Digital:** Main Registration Page

His Excellency Al Zeyoudi furthered: “The UAE is continuing to refine and implement policies that will maximize competitiveness, increase collaboration, and provide opportunities to facilitate trade and investment. Our aim is to become the #1 country for foreign investment, target zero contribution from oil to our GDP in the next 50 years, and support research, development, and innovation. The UAE’s trade and investment strategy is centered on economic diversification and focuses on enhanced investment in industries such as communications, Blockchain, artificial intelligence, robotics, and genetics. We are also initiating measures to strengthen our position as a regional leader in supplying financial and logistical services, infrastructure, energy supplies, and other services.”

He added: “The UAE believes that increased partnership and cooperation with governments and the private sector will be key to achieving our objectives. We view platforms such as the Annual Investment Meeting as instrumental in bridging the gap between nations and supporting global efforts to strengthen international trade and investment. Through this platform, we hope that participants will uncover new, innovative ideas and investment opportunities needed to build back better and ensure a strong post-COVID recovery.”

Furthermore, world-class speakers shared their viewpoints in Day 2 of the Conference highlighting Foreign Direct Investment, Foreign Portfolio Investment, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Startups, Future Cities, and One Belt, One Road, including H.E. Amb. Mariam Yalwaji Katagum, Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment of The Federal Republic of Nigeria; Victoria Hernández Mora, Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce of Republic of Costa Rica; Hon. Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade of Ontario, Canada; and Sergey Cheremin, Minister of Moscow City Government Head of Department for External Economic and International Relations, among others.

Two Investment Roundtables were also held successfully at the second day of AIM Digital, concluding with strategies to facilitate sustainable, smart and scalable investments. The Energy Roundtable was led by Laszlo Varro, the Chief Economist of International Energy Agency, which works with countries around the globe to structure energy policies towards a secure and sustainable future. Among the notable participants include H.E. Arifin Tasrif, Minister for Energy & Mineral Resources of the Republic of Indonesia; and H.E. Gabriel Obiang, the Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons of Equatorial Guinea. The Agriculture Roundtable was led by Islamic Development Bank Group, the multilateral development bank working to promote social and economic development in Member countries and Muslim communities worldwide, delivering impact at scale.

In addition, the second set of National Winners competed on Day 2 of the AIM Global National Champions League. Overall, a total of 65 countries competed at this international startups competition. The top five global champions that will win a total prize of USD50,000 will be announced on the last day of AIM Digital. The competition was launched in a bid to help startups in maximizing their potential to attract funding and promote their business ideas to a global audience, getting utmost exposure and expanding their network.

Participating in the Conglomerate Presentation feature of AIM Digital is Elsewedy Electric led by Eng. Ahmed Elsewedy, its President and CEO. Elsewedy Electric began as a manufacturer of electrical components in Egypt 80 years ago, and Electric has evolved into a global provider of energy, digital and infrastructure solutions with a turnover of EGP 46.6 billion in 2019, operating in five key business sectors, namely Wire & Cable, Electrical Products, Engineering & Construction, Smart Infrastructure and Infrastructure Investments. As part of its commitment to sustainability, it has established green energy and smart metering projects across Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

AIM Digital: Exhibition Booth — **AIM Digital:** Exhibition Booth

The Regional Focus Sessions featured the regions of Asia and Latin America and explored the risks, challenges and opportunities for growth and regional cooperation. Regional Focus Session on Asia brought together government officials and investment authorities from the ASEAN Member States and discussed their strategies to create a borderless and sustainable bloc that will push organic growth, as well as their approaches to gain resilience in the economy. Regional Focus Session on Latin America highlighted the significance of regional and international partnerships to combat the current pandemic and boost trade, investments and employment within the region.

Moreover, Country Presentations on Day 2 presented the outstanding features and investment opportunities in Colombia, Egypt and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia which highlighted the countries’ status as attractive investment destinations.

Another highly anticipated event in the largest virtual gathering of the global investment community is the announcement of winners for the Investment Awards and Future Cities Awards which will take place on Day 3 of AIM Digital. AIM Investment Awards will grant recognition to the world’s best Investment Promotion Agencies and the best FDI projects in each region of the globe that have contributed to the economic growth and development of their markets. Likewise, AIM Future Cities Awards will give tribute to the best smart city solutions providers and for outstanding projects that have resulted to enhanced operational efficiency and productivity, sustainability, and economic growth.

Day 1 of AIM Dıgital welcomed the presence of globally renowned personalities such as the UAE Minister of Economy, His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri who emphasised the vision of UAE’s wise leadership for the post-COVID era, reflecting great significance to enhancing the readiness of the country’s government sector, raising efficiencies and performance at the federal and local levels. Keynote remarks were delivered by H.E. Juri Ratas, the Prime Minister of Republic of Estonia; H.E. Rustam Minnikhanov, the President of the Republic of Tatarstan; H.E. Dr. Bandar M. H. Hajjar, the President of Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB Group); H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi, the Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED); and Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi, the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

AIM Digital: Virtual Lobby — **AIM Digital:** Virtual Lobby

The UAE Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs, His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, underlined in his Keynote Address for the SME Pillar, that it is crucial for Startups and SMEs to be given opportunities to bounce back from the impact of pandemic and provide a conducive environment that will empower them to have the capability of supporting growth and success.

The Global Leaders Debate featured prominent keynote debaters such as Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP); Mohamed Alabbar, the Founder of Emaar Properties, Alabbar Enterprises and Noon.com; Mohammad Abdullah Abunayyan, the Chairman of ACWA Power; and Arkady Dvorkovich, the Chairman of Skolkovo Foundation, who discussed the strategies to restructure the economies in overcoming the consequences of the pandemic.

The first digital edition of the Annual Investment Meeting with the theme “Reimagining Economies: The Move Towards a Digital, Sustainable and Resilient Future, will be held until the 22^nd of October 2020.

For more information on AIM Digital, visit www.aimcongress.com

About the Annual Investment Meeting

The Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) is an initiative of the UAE Ministry of Economy, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. AIM is the world’s leading investment platform with over 16,000 participants coming from more than 140 countries. Over 400 exhibitors and co-exhibitors, 60+ high-level dignitaries, 150+ investment specialists and experts have participated in AIM 2019.