logo
I Squared Capital Expands in Middle East with New Regional Platform and Riyadh Office

I Squared Capital Expands in Middle East with New Regional Platform and Riyadh Office

Business Wire29-04-2025

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--I Squared Capital, a leading global infrastructure investment manager, announced today a major expansion of its presence across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the broader Middle East. The firm is building a dedicated regional investment platform to drive infrastructure investments and related activities, underscoring its long-term commitment to one of the world's most dynamic and strategically vital regions.
This next phase of I Squared's regional strategy builds on the successful launch of its Abu Dhabi office in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and marks a significant step toward establishing a fully integrated GCC-wide platform.
As part of this expansion, I Squared will open a new office in Riyadh in 2025, deepening its engagement with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The Riyadh office will focus on opportunities in energy transition, digital innovation, infrastructure development, and the development of capital markets—key pillars of the Kingdom's transformation agenda.
To support this expansion, I Squared is pleased to welcome Ali Mandour as Managing Director. Mr. Mandour brings extensive investment banking experience and was most recently at Evercore, where he led a broad range of strategic transactions across sectors in Europe and the Middle East. He joins a growing Middle East investment team based in Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Delhi.
'Scaling our platform across the GCC is a strategic priority for I Squared,' said Sadek Wahba, Chairman and Managing Partner of I Squared Capital. 'The region's strong fundamentals, bold national visions, and commitment to infrastructure modernization make it a natural fit for our model. We're not just investing—we're partnering to attract Foreign Direct Investment along with operational expertise to build smart, sustainable, and future-ready infrastructure.'
Wahba emphasized I Squared's aim to support global capital investment into the Middle East, particularly from the Global South, across both core infrastructure and the development of capital markets that enable long-term financing for infrastructure assets.
'Whether it's scaling clean energy platforms, deploying digital infrastructure, or modernizing logistics, we believe our hands-on, tech-driven approach aligns perfectly with the region's ambitions,' added Harsh Agrawal, Senior Partner overseeing Asia and the Middle East.
Mahmoud Mohieldin, Senior Policy Advisor at I Squared and a former Minister of Investment for Egypt and Executive Director at the IMF representing 12 middle eastern economies, reinforced the region's current momentum and promising potential: 'The Middle East is well poised for sustained economic growth in light of decisive reforms currently underway that place its countries on the path to a more resilient and inclusive economic future.'
About I Squared
I Squared Capital is a leading global infrastructure investor managing $45 billion in assets. We build and scale essential infrastructure businesses that deliver critical services to millions of people worldwide. Our portfolio includes over 90 companies operating in more than 70 countries and spanning sectors such as energy, utilities, digital infrastructure, transport, environmental and social infrastructure. Headquartered in Miami, our team of over 300 professionals is based across offices in Abu Dhabi, London, Munich, New Delhi, São Paulo, Singapore, Sydney and Taipei. Learn more at www.isquaredcapital.com.
Disclaimers
This document does not constitute advice or a recommendation or offer to sell or a solicitation to deal in any security or financial product. It is provided for information purposes only and on the understanding that the recipient has sufficient knowledge and experience to be able to understand and make their own evaluation of the proposals and services described herein, any risks associated therewith and any related legal, tax, accounting or other material considerations. To the extent that the reader has any questions regarding the applicability of any specific issue discussed above to their specific portfolio or situation, prospective investors are encouraged to contact I Squared Capital or consult with the professional advisor of their choosing. There is no guarantee that the investment objectives will be achieved. Moreover, the past performance is not a guarantee or indicator of future results.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Industry Report 2025: $11.9 Bn Market Trends, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030 - Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Transforming the Landscape
Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Industry Report 2025: $11.9 Bn Market Trends, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030 - Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Transforming the Landscape

Yahoo

time3 days ago

  • Yahoo

Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Industry Report 2025: $11.9 Bn Market Trends, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030 - Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Transforming the Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market is primed for growth due to increased urbanization, population rise, and significant government investment in infrastructure as part of Vision 2030. The market benefits from advanced manufacturing and sustainability practices, despite challenges like raw material price volatility. Saudi Arabian Rebar Steel Market Dublin, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to offering. The Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market was valued at USD 5.40 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 11.94 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 13.97% Rebar steel plays a vital role in the construction industry, offering tensile strength and structural support to concrete structures. The market comprises various types and grades of rebar used in infrastructure such as buildings, roads, and bridges. Growing urbanization, a rising population, and strong government investment in large-scale infrastructure projects are key factors accelerating market expansion. Additionally, the adoption of sustainable practices and modern manufacturing technologies is reshaping production processes. As part of Vision 2030, the Kingdom is enhancing its construction landscape with initiatives focused on modernizing urban infrastructure, creating substantial demand for rebar steel across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Population Growth and Urbanization Rapid population growth and increasing urbanization are primary drivers of the Saudi rebar steel market. As urban centers expand to accommodate a growing population, the demand for residential buildings, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and commercial developments continues to rise. High-rise structures, urban transit networks, and public amenities rely heavily on reinforced concrete, thus boosting rebar consumption. The government's Vision 2030 initiative further supports urban transformation through affordable housing programs and infrastructure modernization. With Saudi Arabia's population projected to grow from 35 million in 2024 to over 40 million by 2030, and urbanization rates expected to reach 90%, cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are witnessing an uptick in construction activity, driving sustained demand for rebar steel. Fluctuations in Raw Material Prices Volatile raw material prices represent a significant challenge for the Saudi rebar steel market. The production of rebar steel depends on key raw materials like iron ore, scrap metal, and coal, whose prices are influenced by global economic trends, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical factors. Sudden price hikes increase production costs, putting pressure on manufacturers' margins or leading to higher rebar prices for end users. On the other hand, sharp price declines can affect revenues and hinder reinvestment in production capabilities. Furthermore, the Kingdom's reliance on imported raw materials increases exposure to global market volatility. Effective cost management and diversified sourcing strategies are essential to mitigate these risks and ensure market stability. Adoption of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies A key trend in the Saudi Arabia rebar steel market is the integration of advanced technologies to enhance manufacturing efficiency and product quality. Automation and robotics are increasingly being utilized to streamline tasks such as cutting, bending, and welding rebar, ensuring precision and reducing labor-related inefficiencies. The adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies: including AI and IoT: is enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimized energy usage across production lines. These innovations contribute to increased output, reduced operational costs, and improved workplace safety. Moreover, the focus on sustainability is prompting steel manufacturers to adopt cleaner, resource-efficient processes that reduce emissions and waste, aligning with environmental regulations and green building standards. The shift toward digitalization and smart manufacturing is reshaping the competitive landscape, making technological advancement a critical factor in market growth. Report Scope Key Market Players: Saudi Iron & Steel Company (HADEED) Al Ittefaq Steel Products Co. Rajhi Steel Industries Company Ltd. Watania Steel Factory Corporation Al Yamamah Company for Reinforcing Steel Bars Saudi National Steel Factory Baghlaf Steel Mass Steel Madar Building Materials, LLC Bahra Steel Co. Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market, By Type: Deformed Mild Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market, By End Use: Residential Sector Commercial Sector Industrial Sector Public Sector Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market, By Process: Basic Oxygen Steelmaking Electric Arc Furnace Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market, By Finishing Type: Epoxy-Coated Rebar Carbon Steel Rebar Others Saudi Arabia Rebar Steel Market, By Region: Riyadh Makkah Madinah Eastern Province Dammam Rest of Saudi Arabia Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 89 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $5.4 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $11.94 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 13.9% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Saudi Arabian Rebar Steel Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

Inside the late-night drama that led to Trump's tax bill passing by 1 vote
Inside the late-night drama that led to Trump's tax bill passing by 1 vote

Yahoo

time3 days ago

  • Yahoo

Inside the late-night drama that led to Trump's tax bill passing by 1 vote

It was nearly 10 p.m. on a Sunday night when House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., surprised reporters in the hallway of the Cannon House Office Building. The top House Republican was making a low-key — but high-stakes — visit to the House Budget Committee before the panel's second meeting on President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill." The first meeting on May 16 had blown up without resolution when four fiscal hawks balked at the legislation and voted against advancing it to the full House. "The real debate was, is when [we] voted not to approve the budget. And the reason I did that, along with the others, was we needed to make the provisions better," Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., told Fox News Digital. "It was our opportunity to make a bill that overall was good, better. And that was the impetus to stop the budget, and then get some concessions. And then when it reached Rules Committee, there really wasn't that much dissension." Meet The Trump-picked Lawmakers Giving Speaker Johnson A Full House Gop Conference The committee meeting continued with little fanfare, save for Democratic objections to the bill, before one more visit from Johnson, when he signaled the deal was sealed. Read On The Fox News App "I think what is about to happen here is that every member, every Republican member, will give a vote that allows us to proceed forward, and we count that as a big win tonight," Johnson said. He was right, with the legislation advancing exactly along party lines. Fox News Digital was told that conservatives were anticipating what is called a manager's amendment, a vehicle with wide flexibility to change legislation, before the House Rules Committee's vote to advance the bill to the full chamber. The House Rules Committee acts as the final gatekeeper to most bills before a House-wide vote. Trump himself made a rare visit to Capitol Hill the morning of May 20 to urge Republicans to vote for the bill. Mccaul Touts Money In Trump Tax Bill To Pay Texas Back For Fighting Biden Border Policies House leaders again signaled confidence late on May 21, informing Republicans that they would likely vote soon after the House Rules Committee's meeting was over. However, that meeting alone had already dragged on for hours, from just after 1 a.m. on May 21 to finally voting on Trump's tax bill just after 2:30 a.m. on May 22. Lawmakers and reporters alike struggled to stay awake as Democratic lawmakers forced votes on over 500 amendments, largely symbolic, in a bid to drag out the process. Meanwhile, at some point overnight, talks with GOP holdouts went south. The House Freedom Caucus held an impromptu press conference directly after Chair Andy Harris, R-Md., met with Johnson. "The leadership's going to have to figure out where to go from here," Harris said. "I think there is a pathway forward that we can see…I'm not sure this can be done this week. I'm pretty confident it could be done in 10 days. But that's up to leadership to decide." Harris also said the Freedom Caucus had struck a "deal" with the White House, something a White House official denied. "The White House presented HFC with policy options that the administration can live with, provided they can get the votes," the official said. However, the manager's amendment, which finally came out just after 11 p.m. on May 21, eased the concerns of at least several of the fiscal hawks. It bolstered funding to states that did not expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), included additional tax relief for gun owners, and quickened the implementation of Medicaid work requirements, among other measures. Meanwhile, a small group of those House Freedom Caucus members had also been meeting with a small group of conservative senators who assured them they would seek deep spending cuts in the bill when it landed in the upper chamber, Norman said. Mike Johnson, Donald Trump Get 'Big, 'Beautiful' Win As Budget Passes House "It was our hope that the Senate would come back and even make the cuts deeper, so that the deficit could be cut," Norman said. The moves were not enough to ease everyone's concerns, however. Roughly three hours after the amendment's release, Freedom Caucus Policy Chair Chip Roy, R-Texas, was the only Republican member of the House Rules Committee to miss the key vote. Fox News Digital inquired via text message why Roy missed the vote and was told he was "actually reading the bill…" Nevertheless, it passed by an 8 to 4 vote — prompting House leaders to warn their members to return for what would be an all-night series of voting and debates. Democratic leaders, recognizing they would be sidelined completely if Republicans had enough support on their side, again moved to delay the proceedings. A whip notice sent to House Democrats, obtained by Fox News Digital, warned left-wing lawmakers that "House Republicans are planning to finish debate and vote on final passage of H.R. 1 late tonight." The notice advised that House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., would force a vote on adjourning the House and that "additional procedural votes are expected." In a bid to keep Republicans close to the House floor for what was an hourslong night, the speaker set up a side room with snacks and coffee for lawmakers to wait out proceedings. In the House Appropriations Committee room just down the hall, more Republicans were huddled over cigars and other refreshments. The smell of tobacco smoke wafted out as increasingly haggard lawmakers shuffled between the two rooms. Fox News Digital even heard from several lawmakers inquiring when the final vote was expected to be — and wondering whether they had time for a nap themselves. Meanwhile, Fox News Digital spotted Harris and Roy walking the opposite way from the hullabaloo of the House floor, toward the much quieter Longworth House Office Building. Both said they were leaving for more conversations with White House staff before the final vote. Scoop: House Gop Memo Highlights Republican Wins In Trump's 'Big, Beautiful Bill' "The manager's amendment gets us a little closer, but we're still in discussions with the executive branch to see whether we can achieve the objectives that we seek, which is support the president's goals on waste fraud and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid and, you know, making sure that we've got all we can out of the Inflation Reduction Act," Harris said. Roy said he hoped Republicans would go further against states that drastically expanded their Medicaid populations under the ACA. He also signaled that leaders suggested at the time some further Medicaid reform could come from the White House. "The speaker alluded to this afternoon…that there are things in the executive space, executive actions, that we think could take care of some of the concerns that we were having about — again, it's not what we want, but it does ameliorate some of our concerns on the Medicaid expansion front," Roy said. Fox News Digital reached out to the White House and the speaker's office for comment. When it came time for the final vote, it appeared enough was done to get Roy on board. Harris, however, voted "present." Neither made themselves available for an interview for this story. The final vote saw just two Republican defections — Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., long a critic of Johnson, and Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio. "While I love many things in the bill, promising someone else will cut spending in the future does not cut spending. Deficits do matter and this bill grows them now. The only Congress we can control is the one we're in. Consequently, I cannot support this big deficit plan. NO," Davidson posted on X just before the vote began. Two other Republicans, Reps. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., and Andrew Garbarino, R-N.Y., both fell asleep before the final vote — but both said they would have voted to pass the bill. In the end, it advanced by a 215-214 vote — with Republicans erupting in cheers when they realized the victory was locked. "The media, the Democrats have consistently dismissed any possibility that House Republicans could get this done. They did not believe that we could succeed in our mission to enact President Trump's America First agenda. But this is a big one. And once again, they've been proven wrong," Johnson said during a press conference after the vote. Now, the bill is expected to be considered by the Senate next week — when senators are already signaling they are gearing up to make changes. "I encourage our Senate colleagues to think of this as a one-team effort as we have, and to modify this as little as possible, because it will make it easier for us to get it over the line ultimately, and finish and get it to the president's desk by July fourth," Johnson article source: Inside the late-night drama that led to Trump's tax bill passing by 1 vote

Top Sectors & Tips for Success
Top Sectors & Tips for Success

Time Business News

time3 days ago

  • Time Business News

Top Sectors & Tips for Success

Dubai, a global hub of trade, tourism, and innovation, continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, business-friendly regulations, and tax advantages, Dubai offers an ideal environment for launching or acquiring a profitable business. The city's dynamic economy and diverse population create fertile ground for companies across a wide range of sectors. If you're considering starting or investing in a profitable business in Dubai, understanding the landscape, opportunities, and key industries is crucial to making the right move. Dubai has long been known for its openness to global commerce. With 100% foreign ownership now permitted in many sectors and no personal income tax, the city is consistently ranked among the best places to do business in the Middle East. Key reasons why Dubai is attractive for entrepreneurs include: Strategic geographic location connecting East and West connecting East and West Free zones offering tax incentives and full repatriation of profits offering tax incentives and full repatriation of profits Robust digital infrastructure supporting e-commerce and fintech supporting e-commerce and fintech Growing population with high disposable income and diverse tastes with high disposable income and diverse tastes Government support through initiatives like Dubai SME and Vision 2030 These factors make it possible to establish or invest in a profitable business in Dubai with scalable growth potential. Dubai's diversified economy presents numerous profitable opportunities for business owners. Here are some of the most lucrative sectors: The F&B industry is thriving in Dubai thanks to the city's status as a tourism hotspot and a multicultural society. Restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and cloud kitchens can be highly profitable, especially when offering niche cuisines or delivery-focused services. With high internet penetration and a tech-savvy population, e-commerce is booming in the UAE. Businesses that sell fashion, electronics, health products, or even local goods online can quickly scale with the right marketing and logistics support. Dubai's real estate market continues to grow, offering profits for businesses involved in property brokerage, vacation rentals, and facility management. Expo 2020 and new residency options have driven a surge in real estate activity. Dubai attracts millions of visitors annually. Companies offering travel packages, luxury experiences (like desert safaris and yacht rentals), and concierge services can earn substantial revenues in this tourism-friendly city. Spas, salons, fitness centers, and wellness brands are popular and profitable in Dubai's lifestyle-driven market. Niche offerings like organic products, cosmetic treatments, or personalized wellness coaching are also gaining traction. Language centers, tutoring services, and skill-based training programs cater to a large expatriate population. This sector benefits from a constant demand for quality education and professional development. If you're aiming to launch a profitable business in Dubai, consider the following steps: Conduct Market Research : Understand your target audience and analyze competitors. : Understand your target audience and analyze competitors. Choose the Right Location : Consider whether a mainland license or a free zone suits your business model. : Consider whether a mainland license or a free zone suits your business model. Comply with Legal Requirements : Work with a registered consultant or legal advisor to handle licensing and permits. : Work with a registered consultant or legal advisor to handle licensing and permits. Focus on Digital Marketing : A strong online presence can drive customer engagement and sales. : A strong online presence can drive customer engagement and sales. Leverage Local Networks: Connect with industry groups, chambers of commerce, and local events to build your brand and network. Dubai offers an ecosystem ripe with opportunities for anyone looking to establish or invest in a profitable business. From e-commerce and F&B to real estate and wellness, the possibilities are broad and promising. With proper planning, market insight, and adherence to legal frameworks, entrepreneurs can thrive in one of the world's most exciting and prosperous business environments. If you're looking to turn ambition into achievement, there has never been a better time to pursue a profitable business in Dubai. TIME BUSINESS NEWS

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store