Thank You!

The AVCJ Forum proved a landmark for the development of private equity in the Middle East. Top GCC private equity leaders were showcased alongside international luminaries, setting the bar befittingly high for a region earmarked as the world's 'fourth centre for private equity'. Among the highlights of the two-day conference was a keynote address from His Excellency Hussain J. Nowais, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Economic Council. His Excellency emphasised the importance of the private equity discipline in creating a healthy and diversified corporate tapestry. The first ever public appearance and speech by the world's largest sovereign wealth fund was another moment of note: Georges Sudarskis presented ADIA's insights into the private equity asset class and made a good prognosis for an attractive deal environment in 2008-2010. International keynotes were not as optimistic, with Howard Marks of Oaktree Capital's speech entitled 'Boom, Bust, Now What?', and Wilbur Ross portraying the severity of the credit crunch anecdotally by relating the story of a golf caddy who had secured bank funding to purchase 12 condos in Texas that he has never seen.

The forum, gala dinner and cocktail receptions took place at various locations around the lavish Emirates Palace, which holds the distinction of being the world's most expensive hotel to build. Delegates who stayed in the opulent guest rooms will understand why.

AVCJ is looking forward to next year's event, and to being a continuous support to the regional industry. See you there.

To view photos, click here.