Middle East

Sovereign wealth funds and Chinese policy banks are forging a new investment nexus as global banks step in to structure flows across clean energy, infrastructure and advanced industries.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund sign a $1bn partnership to fuel GBA expansion; Singapore’s MAS appoints six asset managers to oversee $2.2bn mandate to bolster the local stock market; Indonesian SWF Danantara secures a $1bn multi-currency credit facility from a syndicate of major international banks; and more.

With its open capital system, strong legal framework, and expanding Shariah-compliant options, Hong Kong is emerging as the launchpad for deeper Middle East–China financial ties.

Global asset managers say distribution, once a supporting function, is now the industry’s core strategic battleground.

Australian SWF's value has grown to A$261bn ($171bn) since its establishment in 2006; Canada's pension fund OMERS will dismiss its entire Asia buyout team as part of a strategic reassessment of its private equity operations; Singapore's GIC is reportedly seeking to sell up to $1bn of its private equity funds' holdings; and more.

Canadian pension fund La Caisse is seeking infrastructure, credit and real estate investment in Asia Pacific; Abu Dhabi's SWF ADQ is aiming to secure a $4 billion syndicated loan from Greater China banks; China's basic pension insurance fund doubles its assets; and more.

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund and Export Development Canada sign a $600m agreement to support sectors such as renewables and cleantech; South Korea's DB Insurance buys US carrier Fortegra Group; Canadian pension fund La Caisse to acquire an Australian renewables business; and more.

Anchored by its $5.2bn Future Fund, the Gulf state is financing a domestic energy transition and using Hong Kong as a gateway to access key technology and partnerships.

Pension fund AustralianSuper plans to add at least 10 more private equity managers by 2030; Japan public service employee pension fund announces exit from 10 out of 27 active funds; and more.

The Citizens of Israel Fund is developing active strategies to capitalise on the technological revolution, demographic shifts and geopolitical realignment across Asia's diverse markets.

The $2 billion Citizens of Israel Fund has brought emerging Asia into its equity portfolio and is building the scale and strategy that could see its future private market allocations reach the region.

The $200 million initiative aims to draw investment for projects including energy storage, e-fuels, smart mobility, renewables and green data centres.