https://arab.news/8enue
RIYADH: Deals worth $28 billion are expected to be announced at this year’s Future Investment Initiative, said FII Institute CEO Richard Attias.
He spoke at a pre-event press conference on Tuesday to announce details about the eighth edition of the event scheduled to be held on Oct. 29-31 in the Saudi capital.
Attias noted that the event will bring together entrepreneurs and startups from around the world, serving as a bridge of communication among them.
Regarding the potential deals, he mentioned that the number of partnerships expected to be announced at FII8 is growing, stating, “we are still finalizing several agreements.”
He emphasized that the summit will be more than just a gathering of thought leaders, focusing on driving tangible outcomes across key sectors. “This year, we expect record-breaking announcements across sectors including renewable energy, cybersecurity, food security, and entertainment,” he said.
The summit is committed to fostering positive change through effective solutions across various domains, including global connectivity, mining, AI, health-tech, sports, the circular economy, food, economies of the future, art, culture, and other key areas.
Highlighting the success of the previous event, Attias noted that, despite the current global and regional situation, 7,100 participants from around the world are registered for the upcoming event. “It is 1,000 more than last year,” he said.
“We are trying to be doers, not just talkers. At FII, we bring real investments, with over $128 billion worth of deals sealed across past editions. If you divide that by seven, it’s much more than $10 billion (worth) of deals which happen during FII,” Attias added.
The CEO explained that one of the core pillars of the FII Institute is “Act,” a division that focuses on investing in startups that align with the institute’s mission of driving impactful and innovative solutions for humanity. “We have already invested in seven portfolio companies,” he said.
Attias emphasized that the FII Institute believes in game changers and helps innovative investors bring about positive change in the world. He pointed out that FII’s influence extends beyond investment, releasing indexes such as the FII Priority Compass, which helps shape global conversations by identifying and tracking key priorities for industries and economies.
During the conference, Attias highlighted the importance of showcasing the positive impact of investments made through the FII Institute.
He stated that investment is not just a financial transaction but has broader effects, particularly in areas like job creation and ecosystem development. The CEO emphasized that the FII Institute has become a membership-based movement, attracting individuals and organizations committed to creating an impact.