The eighth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII8) concluded yesterday under the theme ‘Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow’. Global leaders, investors, and innovators attended the event, which was held from October 29 to 31, explored a wide range of topics, and unveiled several significant initiatives.
FII Institute’s chief executive and board member Richard Attias highlighted the event’s role in breaking traditional boundaries and expanding the potential of human achievement. He emphasized the importance of addressing urgent global priorities such as governance, healthcare, and the cost of living.
“The Future Investment Initiative is about breaking traditional boundaries in thinking and expanding the possibilities of human achievement. On day 1, we’ve seen global visionaries layout powerful ideas and strategies that will shape how we address today’s most pressing challenges and open up new horizons for humanity,” stated Attias.
FII8 delves into world’s most pressing issues
On the first day of FII8, a distinguished panel discussed the rising influence of the Global South, technological disruptions, and the need for novel economic systems to support sustainable global progress. In a special conversation on energy, H.R.H. Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud highlighted Saudi Arabia’s leading role in the energy transition, emphasizing sustainable energy development as critical to achieving net-zero targets worldwide.
FII8 also featured a panel where industry titans, including H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, chairman of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group analyzed the changing dynamics in financial management, emphasizing adaptability in the face of evolving economic conditions and geopolitical factors.
Meanwhile, TikTok CEO Shou Chew captivated audiences with insights into the impact of social media and digital platforms on global community-building, creativity, and cultural exchange. “TikTok has more than a billion users now. It’s not just an app for young people but caters to everyone. It is not just about entertainment, but community, heritage, culture, and arts,” stated Chew.
FII8 launches AI Inclusive Initiative
FII8 also saw the launch of the AI Inclusive Initiative, a global pledge that seeks to ensure inclusive AI deployment in emerging markets. This initiative brings together tech companies, knowledge partners, government policymakers, and the private sector. Funding will be deployed to projects in emerging markets. FII Institute’s 19 knowledge partners will be providing expertise and capacity-building support.
A special discussion on the future of AI with Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, left FII8 guests with key insights on how AI should prioritize the well-being of humanity. He said: “Going Forward, we need AI that loves humanity, which is why xAI was created. It seeks the best interests of humanity”, promoting a future where these technologies serve to uplift and enhance the human experience.
The first day concluded with 12 financial and non-financial announcements that revolved around the theme of investing in impactful solutions for humanity. These announcements highlight a commitment to fostering positive change across various sectors, emphasizing sustainable development, and innovation.
Potential of mega-regions and AI
FII8’s conference sessions also explored the concept of mega-regions — large, interconnected economic zones — as new centers of opportunity. They discussed the role of capital in supporting these economic hubs through innovative solutions and infrastructure investments. Experts also explored the transformative power of AI, which will likely contribute $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
World leaders and decision-makers shared insights into initiatives that seek to address critical challenges and improve the lives of citizens.
The FII8 conference also witnessed the launch of several groundbreaking initiatives, including a global initiative to enable AI in emerging markets and the Ocean Central, a digital platform developed by Wave and powered by FII Institute.
Additionally, numerous investment initiatives were announced to support innovative projects in renewable energy, healthcare, and technology. The FII Institute launched three major initiatives: AI Inclusive, human health, and Wave for the Ocean. The initiatives aim to improve the lives of millions of people by providing free health checks, reducing healthcare costs, and promoting sustainable practices.
Global priorities and challenges
The institute also released several reports, including the FII PRIORITY Compass and the Global Future of Work Compass, which provide valuable insights into global trends and challenges.
The FII PRIORITY Compass highlighted global priorities such as governance, healthcare, and the cost of living. Meanwhile, the Global Future of Work Compass surveyed over 1,300 individuals and 200 companies from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The report indicates that 50 percent of respondents find advanced technology disruptive. Meanwhile, 46 percent believe youth tech training is insufficient. This underscores the need for proactive education reform and upskilling.
Read| FII8: Saudi Arabia’s ministry of investment announces five deals in key sectors
Shaping the future global landscape
Panelists at FII8 debated the feasibility of clean industries amid rising demand for critical minerals in renewable technologies. Leaders from SABIC, Sigma Lithium, Vale, Ivanhoe Mines, and Ma’aden addressed the challenge of responsibly managing resources to support sustainable growth.
FII8 witnessed the announcement of 11 new financial announcements on its second day all investing in impactful solutions for humanity. Alongside these announcements, six strategic partnerships were established, underscoring a commitment to driving positive change across diverse sectors including technology, quality of life, innovation, and sustainability.
The potential for AI to redefine the future of work was also a central theme. Discussions centered around adapting education and training to meet evolving demands. Industry experts highlighted how AI could contribute $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030, transforming job roles and creating new growth opportunities.
With a commitment to “Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow”, the FII conference continued to pave the way for meaningful investments that drive progress, innovation, and sustainability worldwide. With over 45 sessions held on topics such as green technology and digital transformation in emerging markets, FII8 serves as a platform for exploring innovative solutions to global challenges. The insights shared are critical to shaping future investment landscapes, empowering leaders, and fostering impactful partnerships.
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