Ƶ’s charms showcased in ‘Romancing the Future’ initiative 
This article is not about a romantic novel but rather the theme of a half-day educational session organized by the Saudi Chapter of the Global CEOs Club.
My dear friend Ali Alireza, who is championing the Saudi chapter tour this year, asked me to speak to an audience of distinguished CEOs, mainly Americans, at the “Romancing the Future” event in Jeddah.
I shared insights on the remarkable evolution of the Kingdom’s capital market, showcasing how it continues to transform into a global powerhouse fueled by Vision 2030.
During my panel, I explored opportunities for collaboration and growth, emphasizing Ƶ’s pivotal role in shaping the future of global markets. And the efforts of various ministries to attract foreign direct investments in mining, tourism, financial services and AI, among others.
I also had the pleasure of inviting everyone to join our BMG Foundation’s Silver Jubilee celebrations, including the BMG Economic Forum at the London Stock Exchange this coming July.
Other sessions included a talk by Hussein Shobokshi, a businessman and leading columnist, about geopolitical challenges in a turbulent region.
Additionally, Loay Nazer, chairman of Nazer Group, moderated an engaging panel on the evolution of Ƶ sports, featuring panelists Noah Alireza, CEO of the Saudi Golf Federation, Lama Alfozan, and Patrick Raupach.
After my session, I spoke with Lawrence Golub and Marni Pozil about various topics, including private credit and movie productions.
Golub is the CEO of Golub Capital, a market-leading, award-winning direct lender and experienced private credit manager with over $70 billion in assets under management. Golub Capital has specialized for 30 years in lending to established US middle-market companies owned by high-quality private equity firms.
Pozil has been actively involved in philanthropy, particularly in the arts and children’s charities. She served on the board of the costumes and textiles department at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art from 1999 to 2007 and was president of a Los Angeles charity called CHIPS.
Both thoroughly enjoyed touring the country and meeting key officials and heads of family businesses.
Alireza hosted the final evening gathering after a week-long tour across the country, which included visits to Diriyah, AlUla, and other historic sites. It was a memorable finale for the visiting CEOs and their families, who enjoyed a cultural evening by the Red Sea.
Although the educational session was themed “Romancing the Future,” the gala dinner finale could aptly be titled “Romancing the Bride of the Red Sea.”
- Basil M.K. Al-Ghalayini is chairman and CEO of BMG Financial Group.
