|By Arabian Post Staff|Saudi Arabia is holding one of its most important investment summits ever, named the Future Investment Initiative (FII), considered to be game-changing forum in Riyadh. The landmark event is being attended by more than 2,500 delegates and internationally-renowned business and investment leaders from over 60 countries.
The three-day event will explore new trends, opportunities, challenges and emerging industries that will shape the world economy and investment environment over the coming decades.
The first day of the conference will begin with CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin leading a panel of financial experts in debating the new social, economic and intellectual frameworks needed to drive progress. In particular, the session will discuss the emerging trends which will likely have the greatest impact, and how public and private sector leaders can use these to succeed. Those speaking on the panel are: PIF Managing Director Yasir O. Al-Rumayyan, Chairman & CEO of First Eastern Investment Group Victor Chu, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock Larry Fink, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde, Co-CEO of Bridgewater Associates David McCormick and President and CEO of Saudi Aramco Amin Nasser.
Another key session will examine breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, robotics, virtual reality, big data, social media, medical science, and smart infrastructure are now converging to reinvent cities for the 21st century. Moderated by Maria Bartiromo, Global Markets Editor for Fox Business, high-profile participants will include Masayoshi Son, Chairman & CEO of Softbank Group.
An expo featuring the future giga-projects will take place during the event, which are a key element of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic program. The expo will offer delegates a glimpse of the future and unique experiences, utilizing cutting edge technology.
The first day will conclude with energy executives congregating at the Summit on Energy for a Sustainable Planet to discuss which technologies and innovations will shape the sector over the next ten years.
Taking place in the context of volatile oil prices and significant advances in energy and environmental technologies, the Summit will also examine the challenges of diversification through investment in renewable resources. Among those speaking at the Summit are: Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources Khalid Al-Falih; Rachel Kyte, CEO, Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, Sustainable Energy for All; John Rice, Vice Chairman, General Electric.
The event is designed around three key pillars: Shifting centers of power, the new investment paradigm and innovation for a better world.
Also published on Medium.
