H.E. Abdullah Salim Al-Salmi
Executive President, Capital Market Authority, Sultanate of Oman
Date: 26th October 2021
Venue: Muscat
Attendees:
HASHTAG #ifnevents
About The Forum
Now a leading force in the local and regional Islamic finance space, spanning all sectors and products, the Omani Islamic finance industry continues to flourish. With a stringent regulatory infrastructure, industry players are assured of support from the authorities, and the market remains open to expansion and improvement.
Islamic financing in the Sultanate grew 6.7% as at the end of September 2020 and the combined total assets of Islamic banks and windows now stand at US$12.96 billion, or 14% of the total assets of the Omani banking sector.
The 6th IFN Oman Forum, in collaboration with all key local regulators, returns in 2021 to provide exclusive access for industry experts, potential investors and leaders from around the region to further develop the market. Once again, the private and highly regarded IFN Oman Dialogue will be held post-Forum.
An Introduction to 2021
At REDmoney, 2020 taught us much about the state of the events business. What works, what doesn’t and how to continue delivering unparalleled programs to our global audience.
It’s a fundamental element of our business going forward, and we will continue to adapt to ensure we remain relevant and our events remain the industry’s best.
The global appetite and requirements for converging has shifted and now more than ever, we are strategically planning our events to adapt to these changes in the face of disruption without compromising on the quality of knowledge transfer and outreach.
Technological advancements have given rise to exciting opportunities in developing new formats that allows unlimited real time interaction remotely.
Moving forward, we will deliver a blend of physical and online events, ensuring the best of both worlds. Physical interaction is important to many, whilst travel and time away from the office isn’t always necessary to reach new markets.
For 2021, through careful research and planning, we have curated bespoke events online and offline with your interest in mind.
Forum Agenda
9.05 – 9.20
Keynote Address
H.E. Abdullah Salim Al-Salmi, Executive President, Capital Market Authority, Sultanate of Oman
9.20 – 10.40
Oman Vision 2040 and The Islamic Economy: Improving Livelihoods and Creating Prosperity
How are the key tenets of Oman Vision 2040 combining with the broader Islamic economy to inspire a period of sustained economic recovery in Oman? How are incentives under Oman Vision 2040 providing stimulus for the real economy through identifying and closing funding gaps in the vital SME and corporate sectors, and what role do Islamic banks, capital markets and investment managers play? In the shift away from hydrocarbons, what sectors and activities are ripe for growth and development in Oman, and how can Islamic banking, capital markets and asset management facilitate this rotation? Through social impact products and strategies, how can Islamic banks, asset management and capital market initiatives promote entrepreneurship and financial inclusion in Oman, thereby creating jobs and improving livelihoods? We seek the views of a distinguished panel.
Panelists:
Khalid Al Kayed, CEO, Bank Nizwa
Mansoor Jamal Malik, Senior Partner, Al Busaidy Mansoor Jamal & Co.
10.40 – 11.10
Coffee
11.10 – 12.15
Green, Transition and Sustainability-Linked Finance, Sukuk and Investment Funds in Oman
What steps has Oman taken toward the development of ESG investing and what does the Sultanate offer potential issuers of green bonds and Sukuk, blue bonds and other products related to transition and sustainability? Alongside ‘Transition to Net Zero’ and decarbonisation targets, what is realistically achievable and what does net zero mean for important domestic sectors such as aviation, oil and gas and other asset-based industries? How are Shariah compliant banking, capital market and investment products playing a role in this important shift? What incentives will encourage Oman’s private sector’s involvement in sustainable projects? How can the financing of Shariah compliant assets in Oman continue to contribute to the achievement of the UN SDGs and toward the Paris Accord? We ask an expert panel.
Panelists:
Bashar Al-Natoor, Global Head of Islamic Finance, FitchRatings
Mohamad Noranuar Sajari, Head, Shariah Structuring and Compliance, Bank Nizwa
Mohsin Shaik Bin Sehu Mohamed, Senior Executive Manager and Head of Investment Banking & Capital Market, Maisarah Islamic Banking Services
Osama Elsheikh, Country Manager, United Arab Emirates, The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit
12.15 – 13.00
Issues facing Islamic Banks and Islamic Financing in Oman
We address two current, important operational issues influencing Islamic financial institutions and financial products in Oman. Firstly, we examine the enforceability of Islamic finance contracts in the Sultanate and assess mechanisms for dispute resolution, the role of the courts and arbitral tribunals. We ask if Islamic finance contracts are recognized in their own right, whether they are differentiated from conventional products, how regulatory bodies have responded to registration of security charges in Islamic finance contracts, and what precedents have been established in cases of default. Secondly, with the global transition to risk-free rates, what are the implications for Islamic financial products in Oman and the Gulf region? We seek the views of an expert panel.
Panelist:
Thamer Al Shahry, Partner, Said Al Shahry & Partners (SASLO)
13.00 – 14.00
Disrupting and Enabling: Islamic Fintech and Crowdfunding Platforms in Oman
With Oman witnessing notable developments in the areas of equity crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending, what’s next in the evolution of these exciting activities? How do ECF and P2P work in practice, what platforms are they built on and how might they help address and reduce funding gaps in the Omani economy, particularly in the SME sector? What role do the CMA and CBO sandboxes play in the conception and development of new Shariah compliant capital market, insurance and banking products in Oman, and what is their place in the fintech ecosystem? Through this ecosystem, will we witness the successful development positioning of appealing Islamic digital retail, wealth management, Takaful and pension offerings in Oman?
Panelist:
Kemal Rizadi Arbi, Expert/Advisor, Capital Market Authority, Sultanate of Oman
Forum Keynote
Forum Speakers
Bashar Al-Natoor
Global Head of Islamic Finance, FitchRatings
Kemal Rizadi Arbi
Expert/Advisor, Capital Market Authority, Sultanate of Oman
Khalid Al Kayed
CEO, Bank Nizwa
Mansoor Jamal Malik
Senior Partner, Al Busaidy Mansoor Jamal & Co.
Mohamad Noranuar Sajari
Head, Shariah Structuring and Compliance, Bank Nizwa
Mohsin Shaik Bin Sehu Mohamed
Senior Executive Manager and Head of Investment Banking and Capital Market, Maisarah Islamic Banking Services
Osama Elsheikh
Country Manager, United Arab Emirates, The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit
Thamer Al Shahry
Partner, Said Al Shahry & Partners (SASLO)
Advisory Board
Asad Qayyum
Managing Partner, MAQ Legal
Hussein M. Azmy
Associate, Al Busaidy Mansoor Jamal & Co.
Kemal Rizadi Arbi
Expert/Advisor, Capital Market Authority, Sultanate of Oman
Mohamad Noranuar Sajari
Head, Shariah Structuring and Compliance, Bank Nizwa
Mohsin Shaik Bin Sehu Mohamed
Senior Executive Manager and Head of Investment Banking and Capital Market, Maisarah Islamic Banking Services
Osama Elsheikh
Country Manager, United Arab Emirates, The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit
Sadaf Buchanan
Partner, Dentons
Thamer Al Shahry
Partner, Said Al Shahry & Partners (SASLO)
Forum Partners
LEAD PARTNER
Bank Nizwa
Bank Nizwa started operations in January 2013 to offer the people of Oman a unique banking experience that combines Shariah compliant products and services with today’s dynamic financial requirements. Bank Nizwa’s strategy was built on innovation, service excellence and continuous development and growth. Catering to the people of Oman with an unmatchable banking experience, Bank Nizwa effectively combines Shariah compliant products and services with today’s dynamic financial needs.
Closing in on six years as Oman’s go-to reference of Islamic finance and banking, Bank Nizwa has witnessed steady growth in its customer base as more people seek an alternative solution to conventional banking. With the concept of Islamic banking gaining momentum in Oman, Bank Nizwa continues to offer reliable competitive propositions for customers looking to lead financially-secure lifestyles.
In tandem with its ongoing strategy to bring Islamic banking to customers’ doorsteps and fingertips, the bank currently offers a suite of financing, savings and investment products for individual customers. The bank has also expanded its services to cater to SME, corporate and commercial customers, while providing tailored products for the segments of investment banking and global markets. With innovation at the forefront of its successful operations, Bank Nizwa has been consistently introducing forward-thinking products and services such as its online and mobile banking solutions.
To date, Bank Nizwa has focused on expanding its reach across the Sultanate and raising awareness on the benefits of Islamic finance with a network of 13 branches located in Qurum, Al Ghubrah, Al Khoudh, Nizwa, Ibra, Sumail, Sohar, Salalah, Sur, Barka, Buraimi, Ma’abela and Al Khuwair.
Guided by the principles of Shariah and a firm dedication to give back, Bank Nizwa has taken a leading role in promoting the social development of local communities. Since its inception, Bank Nizwa’s Masoliyati program has successfully served as a volunteering platform founded under the theme of ‘Responsibility’.
The bank’s long list of awards includes more than 25 local, regional and international awards over the years, including the ‘Strongest Islamic Retail Bank’ award in the Sultanate at the Islamic Retail Banking Awards 2018 for the fourth consecutive year, the ‘Islamic Bank of the Year’ award by the leading Corporate Livewire Finance Awards and the ‘Excellence in CSR in Islamic Finance’ award at the regional Corporate Social Responsibility in Islamic Finance Conference and Awards ceremony, to name but a few.
MULTILATERAL STRATEGIC PARTNERS
The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD)
The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) is a multilateral development financial institution and is part of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) Group.
The ICD was established in November 1999 to support the economic development of its member countries through the provision of finance for private sector projects, promoting competition and entrepreneurship, providing advisory services to governments and private companies and encouraging cross-border investments.
The ICD has an authorized capital of US$4 billion. Currently, the shareholders of the ICD are the IDB (50%), 53 Islamic countries (30%) and five public financial institutions (20%).
ICD mandate and objectives
The ICD fosters sustainable economic growth in its 53 member countries by:
- Financing private sector investment
- Mobilizing capital in the international financial markets, and
- Providing advisory services to business and governments.
The ICD selects the financing projects based on their contribution to economic development considering factors such as job creation, Islamic finance development, contribution to exports, etc. The ICD also provides advisory services to governments and private sector groups on policies designed to encourage the establishment, expansion and modernization of private enterprises, the development of capital markets, best management practices and to enhance the role of the market economy. The ICD operates to complement the activities of the IDB in member countries.
The ICD is rated ‘AA/FQ’ by Fitch Ratings, ‘Aa3/P-1’ by Moody’s Investors Service and ‘A+’ by Standard & Poor’s.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Tel: (966-12) 6361400; (966-12) 6441644
Fax: (966-12) 644 4427
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.icd-ps.org
The Islamic Corporation for The Insurance Of Investment And Export Credit (ICIEC)
Established 26 years ago in 1994 as a multilateral institution and a member of the Islamic Development Bank Group, the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) was tasked to promote cross-border trade and foreign direct investments in its member countries.
The ICIEC’s mission is to make trade and investment between member countries and the world more secure through the Shariah compliant risk mitigation tool. Its vision is to be recognized as the preferred enabler of trade and investment for sustainable economic development in member countries.
The ICIEC is the only multilateral export credit and investment insurance corporation in the world that provides Shariah-compliant insurance and reinsurance solutions.
Today, the ICIEC supports trade and investment flows in 47 member countries spanning across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Its target clients are corporates (both exporters and investors), banks and financial institutions as well as export credit agencies and insurers.
International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the IDB Group. It was established with the purpose of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving the socioeconomic conditions of the people across the world. The ITFC commenced operations in January 2008 and has since consolidated all trade finance businesses that used to be handled by various windows within the IDB Group. Earning an ‘A1’ rating from Moody’s Investors Service reflects the ITFC’s efficiency in service delivery by responding swiftly to customer needs in a market-driven business environment.
Since 2008, the ITFC has provided more than US$40.2 billion of trade financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for the needs of OIC member countries. With a mission of being a catalyst for trade development among OIC member countries and beyond, the ITFC helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity-building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market.
Contact us at:
Twitter: @ITFCCORP
Facebook: @ITFCCORP
Linkedin: International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)
Tel: +966 12 646 8337
Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.itfc-idb.org/en
IsDB Group Business Forum (THIQAH)
The Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum (THIQAH) is the window of the IsDB Group that facilitates contact and coordination between entities concerned of the IsDB Group and private sector firms and related institutions in IsDB Group member countries. The main objective of THIQAH is to establish a unique platform for effective dialogue, cooperation and inclusive partnership for business leaders committed to partnering in promising investment opportunities. Through facilitation and catalyst roles, THIQAH will be leveraging the IsDB Group’s resources to offer necessary services and confidence to investors and to establish strategic partnerships with the leaders of the private sector. The primary focus will be on maximizing cross-border investment among member countries to be supported by IsDB Group’s financial products and services. (www.idbgbf.org)
ASSOCIATE PARTNER
Al Busaidy Mansoor Jamal & Co (AMJ)
AMJ’s award-winning Islamic finance practice provides clients with advice and representation on a broad spectrum of Islamic finance transactions (including capital market transactions), regulatory frameworks and products.
The dedicated Islamic finance team comprises international lawyers who have advised on numerous high-profile and innovative transactions in Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The team combines technical expertise in conventional financing with a deep understanding and commitment to the principles and mechanics of Shariah compliant instruments and transactions. They have the experience and know-how to structure and implement complex investment, finance and debt capital market transactions which meet both Shariah and/or conventional banking requirements and also satisfy regulatory requirements. The practice is fully integrated with our internationally-ranked finance and capital market practices, giving it unrivaled depth in the market.
The team has advised governments, corporates, Islamic and conventional financial institutions, banks and funds on Sukuk, funds, structured products and securitization and project financing using the entire spectrum of Shariah compliant instruments.
PARTNERS
Fitch Ratings
Fitch Group is a global leader in financial information services with operations in more than 30 countries. Fitch Group is comprised of: Fitch Ratings, a global leader in credit ratings and research; Fitch Solutions, an industry-leading provider of credit risk, debt investment, and strategy and forecasting solutions; Fitch Learning, a preeminent training and professional development firm; and Fitch Ventures, a strategic venture investment vehicle. With dual headquarters in London and New York, Fitch Group is wholly owned by the Hearst Corporation.
Maisarah Islamic Banking
Maisarah, the Islamic banking window of BankDhofar, is one of the fastest-growing Islamic banking entities in the Sultanate of Oman with total assets exceeding US$1.5 billion. Maisarah is enhancing its footprint with well-experienced business divisions with expertise in investment banking, treasury, wholesale banking, trade finance and retail banking.
Maisarah offers a diverse range of superior Shariah compliant products and services as part of its continuous commitment to fulfill the long-term goals of its stakeholders. Maisarah has grown tremendously since its inception and is strengthening its position with a strong performance track record and remarkable milestones in the Islamic finance market. In 2019, Maisarah grew its gross financing portfolio by 12.4% and customer deposits grew by 14.7%. In 2020, Maisarah continues its commitment to reach out to a larger customer base with upgraded systems, cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art financial and investment solutions.
In recognition of the achievements, Maisarah has won many accolades since its inception, including the ‘Best Islamic Bank in Oman’ at the Middle East Banking Award Finance’s Achievement Awards and ‘IFN Oman Deal of the Year Award 2018’.
With a focus on the future, Maisarah is already enhancing its technological capabilities, digitalization, transformation and aggressive expansion of its channels to meet growing customer needs and expectations.
Muzn Islamic Banking
Part of the National Bank of Oman (NBO) Group, Muzn Islamic Banking is a licensed Islamic banking window operating in the Sultanate of Oman providing Shariah compliant financial solutions to customers.
Muzn’s Shariah supervisory board comprises world-renowned scholars and is the highest authority for all Sharia related matters, ensuring Shariah compliance at all times and at all levels within the bank.
Muzn’s corporate banking
At Muzn’s corporate banking, we strive to understand our customer’s business requirements by maintaining long-term, steady relationships. Our in-depth knowledge of the different industry sectors in the Sultanate of Oman has been built over the years. We also provide innovative Shariah compliant solutions that cover corporate finance, project finance, trade finance, capital and treasury products and retail banking services. Our dedicated team of relationship managers will match your business needs with Shariah compliant corporate banking solutions.
Our vision is to stand firm with our customers while identifying areas for growth and efficiency. We are able to suggest practical, cost-effective Shariah compliant methods to take advantage of the opportunities that have arisen with the introduction of Islamic banking in the Sultanate of Oman.
Muzn’s retail banking
Muzn’s retail banking provides a diverse range of Islamic banking solutions that allow our customers to fulfill their financial requirements — from buying a home to saving to securing their children’s future.
Muzn’s privilege banking
Privilege customers may enjoy the following benefits:
• Attractive profit rates on the Privilege Premium Account and Muzn Flexi Wakala Elite Account
• Muzn Privilege Platinum Debit Card
• Access to over 950 airport lounges worldwide, and
• Privilege merchant discounts and benefits.
Muzn’s e-channels
Our digital banking solutions make Islamic banking even more convenient. Our channels include retail and corporate internet banking and mobile banking.
Muzn’s CCDM facility
Muzn customers can deposit funds directly into their accounts through any of the NBO’s 60 automated cash and cheque deposit machines (CCDMs) located across the Sultanate.
Said Al Shahry & Partners (SASLO)
SASLO is an Omani full-service law firm with international experience, providing legal services for more than 27 years across a broad range of sectors and practice areas. The firm has 32 full-time lawyers in two departments — Corporate Commercial and Dispute Resolution. SASLO has advised on some of the most complex financing and infrastructure projects in the Sultanate and has been involved in significant litigation and arbitration in Oman, setting precedents with the Supreme Court.
SASLO has a reputation for providing practical and commercial advice in the context of Omani regulatory and legal requirements. SASLO has a good working relationship with all the government ministries and decision-makers within Oman whose remit affects the business of both local and international clients. In addition to this, SASLO has regularly acted as the advisors to the government for the regulatory development of the business environment.
Having its head office in Muscat and branches in Sohar and Salalah, SASLO is capable of responding rapidly to the legal needs of its clients anywhere in the Sultanate of Oman.
CONSULTANCY PARTNER
Redmoney Consulting
Launched in April 2021, Redmoney Consulting is a new and highly focused advisory firm focusing on global Islamic, Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Finance. Redmoney Consulting is a logical extension of REDmoney Group, the Islamic finance industry’s leading media house with a truly global audience. In addition to Islamic finance, the Group has steadily increased its coverage of the green and sustainable finance sector as the two markets continue to converge. Redmoney Consulting provides an expansive service allowing its consultants to provide advisory and consulting services at the highest level for the most discerning of clients.
MEDIA PARTNER
Oxford Business Group
Oxford Business Group (OBG) is a global research and consultancy company with a presence in over 30 countries, from the Middle East, Africa and Asia to the Americas. A distinctive and respected provider of on-the-ground intelligence on many of the world’s fastest growing markets, OBG has offices in London, Berlin, Dubai and Istanbul, and a network of local bureaus across the countries in which we operate.
Through its range of products, OBG offers comprehensive and accurate analysis of macroeconomic and sectoral developments, including banking, capital markets, tourism, energy, transport, industry and ICT. OBG provides business intelligence to its subscribers through multiple platforms: Economic News and Views, OBG Business Barometer – CEO Survey, Roundtables and conferences, Global Platform – exclusive video interviews, The Report publications and its Consultancy division.
In The News
Oman: Rapid growth
New to the Islamic finance and banking industry relative to the other GCC countries, Oman has made much progress within only a short period of time. A stringent regulatory infrastructure has assured industry players…
Oman debuts maiden retail sovereign Sukuk maintaining issuance momentum
The Omani Ministry of Finance has opened the doors to the public with its first Omani rial-denominated sovereign Sukuk worth a total of OMR25 million (US$64.77 million) for retail…
Latest merger marks ray of hope for Oman’s beleaguered banking industry
man has finally seen some good news, with the long-awaited acquisition of Alizz Islamic Bank by Oman Arab Bank creating a new US$8.4 billion entity that could open up the door for a new…
How Omani Islamic banking can help SMEs
Oman is the last country in the Middle East to introduce Islamic banking and finance through the issuance of Royal Decree 69/2012 on the 6th December 2012. The establishment of Islamic…
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Last Visit to Muscat
For the fourth year in a row, IFN is excited to be back in Oman. The country has been the hotbed of interest for investors for almost half a decade despite being the new kid on the block. The growth of the Islamic finance and banking industry has been an effective contributor to the country’s economic growth with efforts being exercised frequently across multiple sectors in the past years.
Oman’s Islamic finance industry recorded a growth rate of 14% last year. The country has two stand-alone Islamic banks and six Islamic windows at conventional banks offering Islamic services. Its Islamic finance assets are projected to grow to US$3.2 trillion by 2020, with Islamic banking reaching US$2.6 trillion globally.
About REDmoney Events
REDmoney events designs, organizes and hosts industry-leading conferences, forums, roadshows, seminars and dialogues focusing on the Islamic financial markets across a global, regional and national level. Leveraging an exceptional network of the industry’s elite and supported by the expertise of the REDmoney publishing and seminars divisions, REDmoney Events are able to provide access to a unique array of influential speakers, panellists and participants from a cross-section of the global industry to debate the most significant issues affecting the Shariah compliant financial markets.
REDmoney events are differentiated by their complimentary yet qualified attendance structure, ensuring the highest quality of both delegates and contributors. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, attendance ensures exclusive access to the leaders in their field across all sectors and markets.
The annual IFN Asia Forum has been the biggest event in the industry since its inception in 2006, attracting over 1,000 delegates annually. An annual line-up of Forums are also conducted across emerging markets and key jurisdictions. Included under REDmoney Events are the IFN Awards Ceremonies, which take place annually in Dubai and Kuala Lumpur, and attract more than 800 industry leaders.
For any inquiries contact us
Our team will be glad to answer any questions you may have about this event.
