QIA invests in Lesha Bank fund to support Qatar capital markets

Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has recently announced its investment in the Lesha Bank fund, known as "Lesha Qatar Opportunities Fund." This move is part of QIA's Active Asset Management Initiative, which was launched in 2024 to form partnerships with leading asset managers, including local and global firms. According to QIA, this initiative aims to allocate shares in Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) listed companies through re-allocated shares by its partners.

The statement also highlights QIA's commitment to supporting Qatar's competitive local economy by collaborating with local asset managers, such as Lesha Bank. QIA's CEO, Mohammed Saif Al Sowaidi, expressed his satisfaction with this partnership, emphasizing the expansion of their Active Asset Management Initiative and QIA's dedication to fostering Qatar's financial sector growth.

Lesha Bank CEO, Mohammed Ismail Al Emadi, similarly welcomed the investment, stating that it validates their investment philosophy and capabilities. Lesha Bank is a Qatar-based Shari’a compliant investment bank, founded in 2008, with a focus on achieving capital growth and income through investing in a diversified portfolio of Shari’a-compliant shares.

The bank's mission includes becoming a global leader in Shari’a-compliant investment banking and offering innovative investment solutions across various sectors. Lesha Bank is currently managing approximately QR 15 billion in assets under management and aims to expand its asset base as part of its long-term growth strategy. This investment marks Lesha Bank's first foray into QIA's Active Asset Management Initiative, making the bank the fourth overall partner in the initiative.

Previous collaborations between QIA and other asset managers include investments in funds alongside Franklin Templeton, Ashmore, and Fiera Capital.