The Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh from October 29 to 31 will focus on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, signaling a shift from its finance roots. CEO Richard Attias noted the growing participation of tech leaders, with the conference now facilitating significant deals and promoting sustainable investments, while also addressing global resilience amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) is set to convene its eighth annual conference in Riyadh from October 29 to 31, with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies. According to Richard Attias, CEO of the FII Institute, the gathering has shifted focus from primarily attracting financial professionals to now encompassing leaders from the technology sector, reflecting a broader trend where AI disrupts multiple industries. Dubbed “Davos in the Desert,” the FII serves as a global platform where high-level stakeholders, including CEOs, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, engage in discussions aimed at shaping the future of various sectors. Attias noted that the event has evolved to draw more participants from tech-driven fields, highlighting that, “AI is everywhere, and AI is now. And AI is disrupting almost all industries and all sectors.” Since its inception in 2017, the FII has gained momentum, facilitating over $128 billion in deals and establishing a reputation as more than just a networking forum. Attias shared, “I don’t want to be too pretentious, but I think we don’t see any more skeptical people. When people come back and come back every year, this is the answer. Because global CEOs don’t have time to lose.” FII’s success is evident in its resilience during the pandemic, managing to attract larger audiences due to the importance of in-person interactions. Attias praised Saudi Arabia’s strategic location as a global meeting point that fosters essential dialogues among major world powers, stating, “Saudi Arabia is definitely a global hub today, and it is, I would say, a catalyst between north and south and west and east.” Attias also emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and economic diversification, referring to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 as a transformative initiative. He remarked, “If people read Vision 2030 very well, they understand that this country is in full transformation, creating amazing sectors, which are contributing to the diversification of the economy.” The conference will host approximately 8,000 attendees, encompassing a diverse group of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and public figures, facilitating a vibrant exchange of ideas. Attias noted that 30% of attendees are from the United States, 20% from Europe, and 20% from Asia, which ensures a rich dialogue and a global perspective on critical issues. A significant focus of this year’s FII will be on sustainable investment, as Attias highlighted the need for a new ESG (environmental, social, and governance) framework to unlock trillions in investment for developing regions. He stated, “The way you measure a long-term impact is how investment, for example, in sustainable developments are happening, in renewable energy, in sustainable agriculture, in green infrastructure.” Despite geopolitical tension in various regions, Attias expressed optimism that investment and collaboration can lead to stability. He concluded by affirming humanity’s resilience and the FII’s powerful role in promoting positive dialogue and inspiring action toward a sustainable future.
The Future Investment Initiative (FII) is an influential global platform that was established to facilitate high-level discussions among leaders in finance, technology, and policy-making. It serves as a venue for promoting investments in key sectors and advocating for innovative solutions to global challenges. The forthcoming edition in Riyadh signifies a notable shift towards a tech-centric focus, particularly emphasizing the integration of AI across various industries—reflecting a global movement of technological advancement and economic diversification, especially in the context of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
The upcoming Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh aims to leverage AI and emerging technologies as cornerstones for future discussions among global leaders. With a history of facilitating significant financial deals and fostering international collaboration, this year’s event is expected to deepen the focus on sustainable investments and the global economic transformation. Attendees will partake in a rich exchange of ideas that underscores the vital link between investment and societal stability, defying skepticism and demonstrating humanity’s inherent resilience.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
