The Rise of Private Debt: A New Era for Capital Markets and Portfolios

The importance of retirement planning is gaining unprecedented attention in the GCC and globally. A recent survey by Arabian Gulf Business Insight (AGBI) revealed that 88% of expatriates in the GCC are actively prioritizing retirement savings over other expenses, and 82% consider having sufficient funds for retirement as 'very important'.^[1]At the same time, persistent inflation, higher interest rates, and ongoing market volatility are reshaping the retirement planning landscape. Traditional investment models like the 60/40 portfolio are increasingly seen as insufficient to navigate today's uncertainty. In this context, private markets are emerging as an essential instrument for building resilient retirement portfolios and ensuring long-term wealth preservation.

May 8, 2025

March saw the Federal Reserve hold interest rates steady at 4.25% to 4.5% for the second meeting running, and it is widely expected that they will continue to hold rates at the current level in the upcoming meeting on May 6 and 7.^[1]While this much is agreed on, almost everything else appears to be in a state of flux. While the data still suggests calm, the sentiment in the market suggests a coming storm. In this article, we will examine both perspectives and consider how investors should respond.

Apr 30, 2025