Latest news with #Ahamed
Qatar Tribune
10-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
WCM–Q graduates set sights on global impact
Satyendra Pathak Doha Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar (WCM-Q), the Ivy League institution's Middle East campus, continues to live up to its reputation as a premier medical school nurturing some of the most promising doctors of tomorrow. As this year's cohort of graduates steps out into the world, each one carries a deeply personal story shaped by determination, diversity, and a shared desire to serve. Among them is Ahamed Lebbe, who moved from Sri Lanka to Qatar at the age of seven. Growing up in Doha, his dream to become a doctor was fueled by the urge to give back to society in a meaningful way. WCM-Q offered him not only a world-class curriculum but also access to US-based clinical experiences that have prepared him for the next chapter: a residency at the renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital. His goal? A career in gastroenterology. For Ahamed, WCM-Q offered the ideal blend: a globally recognised Ivy League education within reach of home. What truly impressed him, he shared, was the institution's strong emphasis on patient-centred care, a philosophy that resonated deeply with his own values. He credits WCM-Q with preparing him for clinical rotations and research opportunities in the United States, which strengthened his residency applications. He is now headed to Johns Hopkins Hospital to begin his residency in internal medicine, with hopes of eventually specialising in gastroenterology. Pradipta Paul, a Bangladeshi national born and raised in Qatar, found his calling early in life. For him, WCM-Q wasn't just an educational institution — it was a bridge between home and a global future. His groundbreaking research on COVID-19 vaccines, under the mentorship of Dr Laith Abu-Raddad, professor of population health sciences, and director of the biostatistics, epidemiology, and biomathematics research core at WCM-Q, won him accolades and helped shape his approach to patient care. His interest in medicine was sparked in high school, and he was determined to pursue it while remaining close to his family. 'WCM-Q allowed me to do what I loved, while staying rooted,' he said. His time at the college helped him develop a strong aptitude for research, which began as early as his second year in the pre-medical track. Over the years, this interest evolved into a deep commitment. He believes this experience not only honed his analytical and communication skills but will also help him counsel patients with vaccine hesitancy in clinical practice. He is now headed to Rochester General Hospital to begin his residency in internal medicine, with ambitions to specialise further in cardiology or gastroenterology. For American-born Kevin Zhai, the choice to study medicine in Qatar was deliberate. Eschewing offers from US schools, he embraced the cultural diversity and intimacy of WCM-Q's campus, where he thrived in leadership roles and led pioneering research in nanomedicine. He will soon begin his residency in neurology in the United States. 'I knew I would receive the same Cornell curriculum here, but with the added benefit of understanding a different culture and healthcare system,' he said. What stood out for Kevin was the more intimate academic environment compared to large US universities. With smaller class sizes and strong faculty access, he found ample opportunities for leadership and innovation. Over the past few years, he led a research team as principal investigator, exploring the intersections of nanotechnology and medicine. His work, funded through various grants and published in peer-reviewed journals, has contributed to a growing body of knowledge in biomedical innovation. He will now return to the US to begin his residency in neurology. Another graduate Mohammad Saad Javed, originally from Pakistan but raised in the UK, has been living in Qatar for the past decade. He joined WCM-Q at a time when it was the sole provider of American-style medical education in the country. Now, with several years of rigorous training behind him, he appreciates the institution's holistic and supportive learning environment. 'The faculty are incredibly engaged. They truly care about student growth,' he shared. Though he didn't highlight a specific research project, he expressed pride in simply completing the programme and stepping into the next phase of his career. He is now preparing to begin his residency in psychiatry in Florida. Then, there's the story of Omar Mourad and Aisha Serpedin — two students whose paths converged both professionally and personally. Amar, a Syrian national raised in Qatar, and Aisha, who moved from the US with her Romanian-American family, were drawn to WCM-Q for similar reasons: the opportunity to receive an American education close to home. They are now headed to the University of Vermont for their residencies with Amar specialising in internal medicine and Aisha in neurology — with plans to return and serve the region they call home. 'There are unique cases and healthcare challenges in this region. Studying medicine here gave me exposure to both American medical standards and local cultural contexts,' Aisha said. For Amar, treating Arabic-speaking patients and practising in a community he knew well was a key motivation. Both valued the professionalism and high standards of education that WCM-Q offered. As fate would have it, their shared journey extended beyond the classroom. The couple matched together at the University of Vermont — Aisha into neurology and Amar into internal medicine. They hope to return to Qatar after their US training to serve the region with their acquired expertise. From aspiring physicians to future specialists in internal medicine, neurology, psychiatry, gastroenterology, and cardiology, these graduates are now set to begin their residencies in top institutions across the United States. They leave behind a legacy of academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and a strong commitment to serve. As they step into the global medical landscape, their stories remain anchored in the halls of Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, an institution that has empowered them to heal, to lead, and to inspire.
Daily Tribune
09-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
FICCI Appoints Adeeb Ahamed to Steer India–Middle East Economic Engagement
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has appointed Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings, as the chair of FICCI Arab Council for 2025-26. Initially appointed in 2023, his continued stewardship ensures a seamless progression of FICCI's efforts to advance India's economic collaboration with the Middle East, building on two years of sectoral engagement, policy dialogue, and partnership facilitation. As Chair, Mr. Ahamed will also serve on FICCI's National Executive Committee, contributing to the organisation's broader policy and advocacy agenda at the national and international levels. The FICCI Arab Council plays a pivotal role in deepening India–Middle East ties. Among its recent milestones is the facilitation of a landmark MoU between Expo City Dubai and FICCI, paving the way for long-term collaboration on major events, including the Asia Pacific Cities Summit (APCS) 2025. The Council also played a key role in enabling investment-focused delegations from states such as Rajasthan and Assam to engage with leading UAE-based business groups. The recent opening of FICCI's Dubai office stands as another achievement, providing a permanent regional base to strengthen partnerships and advance India's economic diplomacy in the Gulf. In the coming year, the Council will prioritise deeper engagement with young entrepreneurs and start-ups, while also focusing on facilitating access for Indian SMEs to key markets across the GCC. At the same time, it aims to create pathways for investors in the Middle East to explore emerging opportunities within India's dynamic SME ecosystem. 'Our vision is to expand participation by engaging more young entrepreneurs from across the region and giving them a meaningful stake in the dialogue. It is vital that they are not only heard, but empowered with the right platforms, networks, and resources to lead—because the future of India–Middle East cooperation will be defined by innovation, agility, and inclusive leadership,' said Mr Ahamed. Adeeb Ahamed is the Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings, a leading financial services company operating across the GCC, India, and APAC regions. He also leads Twenty14 Holdings, an investment firm with a diverse portfolio in luxury hospitality. A prominent voice on digital innovation and financial inclusion, Mr. Ahamed is an active contributor to global economic discourse through platforms like the World Economic Forum.
Qatar Tribune
08-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
FICCI appoints Adeeb Ahamed to steer India–Middle East economic engagement
Tribune News Network Doha The Federation of Indian Chambers ofCommerce and Industry (FICCI) has appointed Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings Adeeb Ahamed as the chair of FICCI Arab Council for 2025-26. Initially appointed in 2023, his continued stewardship ensures a seamless progression of FICCI's efforts to advance India's economic collaboration with the Middle East—building on two years of sectoral engagement, policy dialogue, and partnership facilitation. In his role as Chair, Ahamed will also serve on FICCI's National Executive Committee, contributing to the organisation's broader policy and advocacy agenda at the national and international levels. The FICCI Arab Council plays a pivotal role in deepening India–Middle East ties. Among its recent milestones is the facilitation of a landmark MoU between Expo City Dubai and FICCI, paving the way for long-term collaboration on major events, including the Asia Pacific Cities Summit (APCS) 2025. The Council also played a key role in enabling investment-focused delegations from states such as Rajasthan and Assam to engage with leading UAE-based business groups. The recent opening of FICCI's Dubai office stands as another achievement, providing a permanent regional base to strengthen partnerships and advance India's economic diplomacy in the Gulf. In the coming year, the Council will prioritise deeper engagement with young entrepreneurs and start-ups, while also focusing on facilitating access for Indian SMEs to key markets across the GCC. At the same time, it aims to create pathways for investors in the Middle East to explore emerging opportunities within India's dynamic SME ecosystem. 'Our vision is to expand participation by engaging more young entrepreneurs from across the region and giving them a meaningful stake in the dialogue. It is vital that they are not only heard, but empowered with the right platforms, networks, and resources to lead—because the future of India–Middle East cooperation will be defined by innovation, agility, and inclusive leadership,' said Ahamed. Adeeb Ahamed is the Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings, a leading financial services company operating across the GCC, India, and APAC regions. He also leads Twenty14 Holdings, an investment firm with a diverse portfolio in luxury hospitality. A prominent voice on digital innovation and financial inclusion, Ahamed is an active contributor to global economic discourse through platforms like the World Economic Forum.
Khaleej Times
07-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Gold rally fails to damp appetite of jewellery lovers
Gold price rally is likely to continue this year, but it will not dent jewellery sales due to strong demand from central banks, geopolitical instability and inflation fears, according to experts. Leading gold retailers said soaring prices of yellow metal have not dampened the appetite of jewellery lovers as the sales remained steady, indicating gold's enduring status as a value-appreciating investment. However, there is a demand for diamond or 18k or lower carats due to some seasoned buyers and a growing number of millennial and Gen Z consumers who prefer stylish, versatile designs. Shamlal Ahamed, Managing Director for International Operations at Malabar Gold and Diamonds, said the yellow metal price is likely to sustain an upward trend this year. 'Predicting short-term gold price movements is challenging, as they are influenced by various so-cial and economic factors. However, historical trends show that gold prices have consistently risen over time, reinforcing its status as a reliable long-term investment,' Ahamed told BTR. He was of the view that gold has always been a safe haven, protecting wealth against inflation and economic uncertainties. 'As global demand continues to grow, its value is expected to remain strong.' Gold's rally, which began in late 2024, has seen record high prices within just six weeks since the start of 2025. On February 20, 2025, prices hovered near $2,950.41 per ounce and are expected to hit new all-time high of over $3,200 before stabilising at elevated levels in the coming years, according to UBS gold price outlook. Goldman Sachs sees the potential for gold to surge to $3,300 per ounce by year-end due to prolonged speculative positioning. The investment bank raised its year-end 2025 gold price forecast to $3,100 per ounce, up from $2,890, citing sustained central bank demand. 'Structurally higher central bank demand will add nine per cent to the gold price by year-end, which combined with a gradual boost to ETF holdings as the funds rate declines,' according to Goldman Sachs estimates. Growing fears of inflation and fiscal risks could drive speculative positioning and ETF flows higher, while worries about US debt sustainability may encourage central banks, especially those with large US Treasury reserves, to increase their gold purchases, the investment bank added. About impact of higher gold prices on jewellery sales, Ahamed said a sudden rise in gold prices may lead some jewellery buyers to adopt a wait-and-watch approach, but this hesitation is usually short-lived. 'Consumers eventually adjust to the new prices, recognising that gold's consistent appreciation reinforces its status as a valuable investment. As history has shown, demand for gold always rebounds, as buyers understand that purchasing gold is not just an expense but a smart way to preserve and grow wealth over time,' he said. Key factors behind rally John Paul Alukkas, Managing Director, Joyalukkas Group, said gold's outlook for 2025 looks very promising following its record performance in 2024. 'The demand for gold is expected to stay strong due to economic uncertainties, inflation, and the continued appeal of gold as a safe-haven asset. Central banks' increased purchases and rising consumer confidence are also likely to contribute to gold's growth,' Alukkas told BTR . 'In markets like the UAE and India, where gold is a significant part of cultural and economic activity, we are expecting continued demand for jewellery. At Joyalukkas, we are prepared for the ups and downs and our commitment remains to offer high-quality products and choices which we are sure will help us maintain our leadership position in the market.' In 2025, gold prices seem to be on growth path, driven by a combination of factors, according to Alukkas. 'Global economic uncertainties and inflation concerns will keep gold as the preferred safe-haven asset, attracting investors worldwide. Central banks' ongoing gold purchases further bolster its value.' Additionally, Alukkas said strong consumer demand for gold jewellery, especially in key markets like India, the UAE, and China, will sustain its popularity. 'As the global economy navigates challenges, gold remains a reliable store of value. Inflation, central bank decisions and the US dollar will the big drivers of gold prices this year,' he said. Setting new records Anil Dhanak, Managing Director at Kanz Jewels, said gold has consistently broken all-time highs, and the first quarter of this year has already seen prices hovering close to $3,000 per ounce. 'This upward trend is likely to continue, driven by interest rate cuts and sustained central bank purchases. As inflation concerns persist and geopolitical tensions remain unresolved, gold's appeal as a safe-haven asset will only strengthen,' he said. About the factors driving gold prices this year, he said the primary driver will be monetary policy decisions mainly the interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve and geopolitical uncertainties especially regarding the US tariff policies. 'Given the fragile economic environment, investors are expected to continue flocking to gold as a hedge against uncertainty,' he said. Focus shifting to diamond Leading jewellery retailers said the buyers shift focus to diamond or 18k or lower carats not only because of bullish gold, but also due to seasoned buyers and a growing number of millennial and Gen Z consumers who prefer stylish, versatile designs. Ahamed said the demand for lightweight, trendy jewellery that seamlessly complements different outfits has been steadily rising in recent years. This shift is driven by both seasoned buyers and a growing number of millennial and Gen Z consumers who prefer stylish, versatile designs. 'Interestingly, this trend is independent of gold price fluctuations as the average transaction value for gold jewellery has remained stable, proving that consumer interest is driven more by design prefer-ences than by gold rates,' he said. As gold prices soar, John Paul Alukkas said many customers are diversifying their choices. 'They are preferring to purchase diamonds and 18k or lower-carat gold, which offer a more affordable alternative. This could also mean they are preferring precious jewellery for everyday wear and many more occasions, because overall we don't see a big impact in sales of all types of jewellery,' he said. 'At Joyalukkas, we offer all types of jewellery, whether you're looking to dazzle with a diamond or shine with high-quality gold, at Joyalukkas we offer unmatched beauty, quality, and timeless de-signs that perfectly suit every style.' Gold delivered strong gains in 2024, rallying by more than 25 per cent and hitting its all-time high. Those gains build on the strength that the precious metal has enjoyed over the past five years, during which time its price has increased by more than 70 per cent. Many analysts value gold for its intrinsic value and its applications in various industries. While analysts have different price targets in mind, the general consensus is that yellow metal will continue to rally in years to come. 'While higher gold prices traditionally dampened jewellery demand, consumer behaviour has evolved. Shoppers today recognise that waiting for gold prices to drop is not always the best strategy. Instead, purchasing based on personal financial readiness has become the norm,' Dhanak said. Additionally, he said there is a noticeable shift towards lighter weight jewellery pieces, ensuring continued demand despite higher prices. 'Design and aesthetic appeal remain the most important factors in a jewellery purchase. However, diamond jewellery is now seen as a more cost-effective alternative when gold prices rise. Lower-carat gold, such as 18k has also become a popular choice, allowing consumers to balance price and design preference,' he said. About the challenges for bullion to retain its safe haven status, Dhanak said gold's strong rally has only reinforced its reputation as a safe-haven asset. This perception is unlikely to change unless we see unexpected rate hikes or a sharp economy recovery that drives investors toward higher-yield assets. For now, gold remains a key store of value in times of uncertainty.
Yahoo
05-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Airwallex agrees to acquire Vietnam's CTIN Pay
Payments platform Airwallex has agreed to acquire CTIN Pay, a licenced Intermediary Payment Service company in Vietnam. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Headquartered in Singapore, Airwallex said the deal expands its existing authorisations across Asia-Pacific markets, including Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, New Zealand, mainland China, and Japan. It also aims to strengthen Airwallex's financial framework, enabling Vietnamese merchants to expand globally while also assisting international businesses in establishing a presence in Vietnam. Airwallex highlighted Vietnam's 'strong' economic growth and 'rapid' digital transformation as key factors positioning the country as a growth market in the region. Airwallex APAC general manager Arnold Chan said: 'Airwallex's entry into Vietnam is a key step in our strategy to build a truly global financial platform. The fast-growing economy and dynamic business landscape in Vietnam offer immense opportunities. 'By addressing financial challenges in these markets, we empower local businesses to expand beyond borders. We're particularly excited about our progress and continued expansion in APAC, the region where Airwallex was born.' The payment company has hired Ershad Ahamed as the head of Southeast Asia to speed up its expansion in the region. Operating out of Singapore, Ahamed previously held senior roles at Grab and leadership positions at Rakuten and Procter & Gamble. Ahamed stated: 'Airwallex's mission to empower businesses with seamless financial solutions resonates deeply with me. Southeast Asia is a dynamic and diverse market, and I look forward to driving Airwallex's growth in the region. 'What excites me most is enabling businesses here to unlock international growth opportunities with confidence by harnessing our robust financial infrastructure.' This acquisition is part of Airwallex's strategy to strengthen its global presence. It follows Airwallex's purchase of MexPago, a Mexico-based payment service provider. Established in Melbourne in 2015, Airwallex recently announced its official launch in New Zealand. The company claims to have surpassed $600m in annualised revenue and $130bn in annualised transaction volume. "Airwallex agrees to acquire Vietnam's CTIN Pay " was originally created and published by Electronic Payments International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
