The young but vibrant venture capital ecosystem in the Middle East offers bright spots after a year of introspection for venture capitalists. For many, valuations fell to levels not seen in a decade, while investments made globally also sank by a quarter. Yet, against the backdrop of an improving macroeconomic environment, AI’s growing influence, and with over USD 300 billion in dry powder waiting to be deployed in the US alone, the industry is poised for a pivot. This begs the essential question for investors: Will mega-round financing continue to wane, with managers increasingly prioritizing smaller, more profitable and strategically positioned firms? We will explore which sectors will outperform and how trends will differ in developed and emerging economies. We will consider the government investing to diversify and develop local economies, including a discussion of Qatar’s recent announcement of a USD 1 billion fund for its national start-up and VC ecosystem. Join us as we chart the path forward for venture capital and the role that managers can play in emerging markets. 

Moderator

Nicole Valentine

Director, FinTech, Milken Institute

Speakers

Mohammed Al Sowaidi

Chief Investment Officer, Region Americas, QIA

Saleha Osmani

Managing Director, Falconbridge Advisors

Jack Selby

Managing Director, Thiel Capital