- The partnership reflects QIA’s commitment to strengthening Qatar’s financial sector and supporting local asset managers, with Lesha becoming the first locally managed fund.
- The investment advances QIA’s efforts to promote diversified capital markets and long-term economic growth in Qatar.
Doha: QIA today announced its investment in Lesha Qatar Equity Fund.
Lesha Bank is a Qatar-based Shari’a-compliant investment bank founded in 2008. The Fund is focused on achieving capital growth and income by investing in a diversified portfolio of shares included in the QE Al Rayan Islamic Index or constituents of the QE All Share Index in accordance with Shari’a guidelines.
The investment is part of QIA’s Active Asset Management Initiative, launched in 2024 to establish partnerships with leading global and local asset managers with GCC expertise. Under the initiative, QIA seed funds managed by its partners by re-allocating shares in Qatar Stock Exchange-listed companies.
Lesha Bank has ambitions to become a global leader in Shari’a-compliant investment banking, offering innovative investment solutions across alternative investments, asset management, and investment advisory services. The bank manages approximately QAR 19.2 billion in assets under management and aims to further expand its asset base as part of its long-term growth strategy.
The collaboration with local asset managers such as Lesha Bank further reflects QIA commitment to supporting Qatar’s competitive local economy. Through a number of initiatives, QIA seeks to support the continued development and diversification of Qatar’s capital markets.
Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA said, “We are pleased to expand our Active Asset Management Initiative through this investment in Lesha Bank, the first locally managed fund under the initiative. This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting the development of Qatar’s financial sector and broadening opportunities for local asset managers.”
Mohammed Ismail Al Emadi, Group CEO of Lesha Bank, commented, “Having the investment in our public equity fund focused on Shari’a-compliant listed equities is a powerful endorsement of our investment philosophy and capabilities. We are honoured to be the first local asset manager to join the Active Asset Management Initiative, designed to boost economic growth and enhance liquidity on the Qatar Stock Exchange. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment between two Qatari institutions to strengthen local capital markets for the long term.”
Lesha Bank is the first local asset manager to join the initiative and the fourth partner overall. Previous partnerships include QIA investments in funds alongside Franklin Templeton, Ashmore, and Fiera Capital.
Media Contact: media@qia.qa
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