XI Cbonds Fixed Income Conference

Nikolaos Akkizidis has built a distinguished career in the financial services sector, with over two decades of expertise in portfolio management, risk assessment, and financial...

Nikolaos Akkizidis has built a distinguished career in the financial services sector, with over two decades of expertise in portfolio management, risk assessment, and financial analytics. He began his journey as a financial analyst at an investment consulting firm and quickly advanced through roles with the Athens Stock Exchange, eventually leading various departments in financial companies. His roles have ranged from Derivative Trader to Head of the Analysis Department, culminating in executive positions such as COO at a prominent stockbroking company in Athens. In 2019, Nikolaos transitioned to Cyprus, where he focused on enhancing regulatory compliance and operational efficiency as the Compliance and AML Officer for an FX trading company. Since 2023, he has served as the Head of the Advisory Department at A.N. Allnew Investments. As a regular columnist for FXStreet since 2013, his insights on global markets and fintech innovations have been featured on platforms such as Nasdaq.com and Yahoo Finance. Nikolaos is also an accomplished author. His book, "Financial Economics, Strategic Risk & Investment Management, Undercover," explores global macroeconomic strategies and the use of financial repression policies. He is currently working on two new books: "The Axiom to Discover Great Challenges, Risks, and Opportunities," which addresses the future Great Challenges that will shape global risks and opportunities, and "CRYPTOS, The New Normality in a New Ground of Common Values," which examines the emergence of cryptocurrencies and their influence on economic and societal norms. Nikolaos has been an active participant in global debates and conferences, analyzing critical challenges that are poised to drive significant changes in the coming decades. He highlights the crucial role of technology, particularly AI, in facilitating these transformations. In the realm of artificial intelligence, he applies AI directly to investment and finance, viewing it as a transformative power that redefines traditional financial operations. He holds a Master’s degree in International Economics, Banking, and Finance from Cardiff University and has studied strategic management at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

Bashar Al Natoor is a managing director and the Global Head of Islamic Finance at Fitch Ratings. With over two decades of industry, he...

Bashar Al Natoor is a managing director and the Global Head of Islamic Finance at Fitch Ratings. With over two decades of industry, he expertly steers the coordination of Islamic Finance activities across all sectors globally.

Al Natoor's journey with Fitch began in 2007, where his expertise has been pivotal in shaping the agency's Sukuk criteria and Islamic Finance methodologies, contributing significant research and analysis to the field. Before his appointment as global head Mr Al Natoor joined Fitch as a director in the EMEA Corporates group based in Dubai. He was responsible for analysing EMEA issuers, with focus on Middle East and Turkish issuers. Prior to joining Fitch, Mr. Al Natoor spent seven years at the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). Before working with IDB, Mr Al Natoor was a senior auditor in Arthur Andersen. Mr Al Natoor graduated with an MSc in banking and holds multiple financial certifications.

Mr. Amoo-Gottfried is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Black Stars Investments, (BSI), an Emerging Markets focused hedge fund. BSI is a fundamentally...

Mr. Amoo-Gottfried is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Black Stars Investments, (BSI), an Emerging Markets focused hedge fund. BSI is a fundamentally focused investor in both traditional and frontier EM and was awarded best EM debt fund in Europe in 2022. Prior to joining BSI, he worked as a Portfolio Manager at multiple hedge funds in London where he successfully ran funds investing in global Emerging Markets across multiple asset classes winning multiple awards for strong performance. He was named a Hedge Fund Rising Star by the Hedge Fund Journal in 2022. He began his career in investment banking also focused on Emerging Markets. He is a graduate of the London School of Economics (LSE) and London Business School (LBS)

Ahsan is a highly qualified financial market professional with over 25 years of experience in investment banking, capital markets, research, and asset management. He is...

Ahsan is a highly qualified financial market professional with over 25 years of experience in investment banking, capital markets, research, and asset management. He is based in Dubai, working for Mashreqbank PSC since December 2004, and is currently heading the Rates, Fixed Income & Structured Solutions team in the Treasury & Capital Markets Group. Ahsan’s areas of expertise include credit analysis & trading, interest rate derivatives structuring & trading, and structured solutions. He is keenly interested in global and regional macroeconomic developments and closely monitors key industrial and financial trends emerging in the GCC in general and the UAE in particular. He regularly advises clients on investment and risk management strategies based on global macro developments especially related to monetary policies. He has represented Mashreqbank at various regional and international seminars covering the economic and capital markets outlook. He has been associated with Mashreq for over 18 years and during that time also carried out the roles of the fixed-income portfolio manager and head of international treasury sales. Before joining Mashreq, Ahsan worked in the area of M&A advisory and Corporate Finance for 5 years for UBS Pakistan and was involved in a wide range of public and private advisory and fund-raising transactions. Ahsan has achieved professional qualifications such as the CFA Charter awarded by the CFA Institute in 2003 and the FRM Charter awarded by the Global Association of Risk Professionals in 2007. He completed his Masters in Risk Management from Stern School of Business at the New York University in 2018.

Alexander Viner has over 20 years of experience in capital markets. He began his career as a fixed income, money market, and FX trader at...

Alexander Viner has over 20 years of experience in capital markets. He began his career as a fixed income, money market, and FX trader at several leading regional banks. He worked as an investment advisor at several of the largest family offices and contributed to managing a global asset allocation fund as a member of an investment committee at a London-based asset manager with USD 1.8 billion in assets. In 2017, he moved to Cyprus to manage an EM-focused Fixed Income Fund. He is currently the Head of Portfolio Management at Wise Wolves Group.

Alisher brings over 30 years of experience in international finance, with a proven track record across advisory, investment banking, venture capital, private equity, and investment...

Alisher brings over 30 years of experience in international finance, with a proven track record across advisory, investment banking, venture capital, private equity, and investment management. He is the founder of AD Wealth, a family office investment firm focused on global emerging and frontier markets. Prior to this, Alisher held senior positions at prestigious institutions like Credit Suisse First Boston, Lazard, Renaissance Capital, Strategy&, PwC, and EY. Throughout his career, Alisher has played a pivotal role in founding and building award-winning investment banks and asset management firms across developing countries. His expertise extends to advising governments, sovereign wealth funds, state-owned enterprises, and multinational corporations on foreign direct investments. He has also actively invested and co-invested alongside family offices and other principal investors, across diverse asset classes. Alisher's global reach is evident by his experience working and studying in over 25 countries spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. He has served as chair, moderator, or speaker at over 200 conferences, delving into topics like emerging and frontier markets, Islamic finance, banking, capital markets, hedge funds, energy, resources, infrastructure, property, telecom, and technology. His insights have also been featured on prominent media outlets like Bloomberg, CNBC, BBC, Al Jazeera, Reuters, Dow Jones, and Channel NewsAsia. Additionally, his expertise has been recognized by leading publications including the Financial Times, Foreign Policy, Euromoney, Global Finance, and Institutional Investor.

Xenia Dmitrieva has joined Cbonds in 2021 as an International Support Manager. Having graduated from the Humanities Institute with a Linguistics Degree, she learnt different...

Xenia Dmitrieva has joined Cbonds in 2021 as an International Support Manager. Having graduated from the Humanities Institute with a Linguistics Degree, she learnt different languages as well as studied business communication. For years, having worked with the current client base, Xenia has learnt a large number of use cases and helped to meet challenges of banks, asset management teams, family offices, risk assessment companies, and private investors. Since January 2024, Ms. Dmitrieva has been working as an International Business Developer with a key role to build international partnerships and achieve win-win goals.

Старший специалист по инвестициям с более чем 25-летним опытом работы на развивающихся рынках. Успешно нашел, реализовал и управлял перекрестными активами в Латинской Америке (долг и...

Старший специалист по инвестициям с более чем 25-летним опытом работы на развивающихся рынках. Успешно нашел, реализовал и управлял перекрестными активами в Латинской Америке (долг и капитал) и неликвидными особыми ситуациями (NPL, PE, Кредит). Кристиан построил прочную сеть акционеров, владельцев бизнеса и руководителей высшего звена в регионе. Совсем недавно Кристиан работал в технологическом секторе, в частности в Sportech и Fintech, консультируя иностранных инвесторов и стартапы по работе и финансированию в Бразилии. Консультировал американских/европейских управляющих активами и хедж-фонды по вопросам эффективного распределения капитала в Credit&Special Sit в Бразилии (поиск и структурирование). Партнер-основатель EKEKO Capital Solutions, специализированного специалиста в Латинской Америке, который консультирует и совместно управляет пулом активов, а также предоставляет оптимальные решения по домицилированию и финансированию.

Dr. Yana Leonova is recognized as one of the Top 50 Influential Women in Dubai by Womenpreneur ME awarded by the Sheikh's office for...

Dr. Yana Leonova is recognized as one of the Top 50 Influential Women in Dubai by Womenpreneur ME awarded by the Sheikh's office for her outstanding contributions to social impact, and named among the CEO UAE 10 Inspiring Women in March 2023. With a deep passion for technology and sustainability, Dr. Leonova combines practical experience with academic knowledge in cutting-edge technologies, finance, and investment. She has spoken at over 40 prestigious events, including the World Economic Forum in Davos in 2020 and 2022. Dr. Leonova has authored numerous publications and has been featured in interviews, podcasts, and YouTube programs where she shares her insights on technology, entrepreneurship, and finance.

Graduating from the University of Genoa in 2014 in Modern Language and Culture, and going on to gain a Master’s in Translation and Interpretation in...

Graduating from the University of Genoa in 2014 in Modern Language and Culture, and going on to gain a Master’s in Translation and Interpretation in 2016, Alessandro Lombardo gained experience in international relations through managing the reports of the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) between 2012 and 2017, for the members from Central and Eastern Europe. In September 2017 he began his collaboration with Cbonds, a company providing an online bond research and analysis platform. In August 2018 he was appointed head of the company’s international department.

Сергей Лялин окончил Санкт-Петербургский Государственный Университет, экономический факультет (диплом «экономист-математик»). Также получил образование в Стокгольмском Университете по программе Baltic Sea Management Academy (диплом MSBA). Имеет...

Сергей Лялин окончил Санкт-Петербургский Государственный Университет, экономический факультет (диплом «экономист-математик»). Также получил образование в Стокгольмском Университете по программе Baltic Sea Management Academy (диплом MSBA). Имеет ученую степень кандидата экономических наук. Работать на рынке ценных бумаг начал в 1995 году аналитиком по облигациям в ИК «Девиз». С 1997 года – в ИК «Энергокапитал» (менеджер по работе с клиентами, затем начальник отдела маркетинговых исследований). В 2000 году организовал Интернет-портал Cbonds.Ru. С 2001 года – генеральный директор ООО «Сбондс.ру». Под руководством Сергея Лялина информационное агентство Cbonds стало лидирующим информационным ресурсом по рынку облигации России и стран СНГ. С 2006 – издатель журнала Cbonds Review, в 2006-2007 главный редактор журнала. Автор книги «Корпоративные облигации: мировой опыт и российские перспективы» (2001), ряда статей по рынку ценных бумаг.

Mehdi Popotte is a seasoned finance professional with over 15 years of dedicated experience in the field of sukuk and Islamic finance. As a Senior...

Mehdi Popotte is a seasoned finance professional with over 15 years of dedicated experience in the field of sukuk and Islamic finance. As a Senior Portfolio Manager at Arqaam Capital, based in Dubai, UAE, Mehdi oversees all Islamic strategies, managing assets close to half a billion dollars, including one of the top-performing sukuk funds in the region. Mehdi's deep involvement in Islamic finance ranges from managing bank’s treasury proprietary books in the region to sukuk financial intermediation at international institutions and managing sukuk funds. He holds an MSc in Finance from Neoma Business School and graduated from the first cohort of the MSc in Islamic Finance at Durham University, a pioneer program in the field. A CFA Charterholder since 2012, Mehdi is passionate about contributing to the growth of Islamic finance, particularly through investor education, deal participation, and liaison with notable scholars to ensure authenticity and adherence to Islamic principles. Regularly featured on regional media to discuss economic and financial developments, Mehdi is dedicated to promoting an alternative, ethical approach to delivering superior risk-adjusted returns to investors. His commitment to the sector is geared towards fostering the expansion and depth of sukuk, aligning modern financial practices with traditional Islamic values.

Experienced Fixed Income Analyst with a demonstrated history of working in the Investment industry. Skilled in Portfolio Analysis, Derivatives and Credit Analysis. Strong finance professional...

Experienced Fixed Income Analyst with a demonstrated history of working in the Investment industry. Skilled in Portfolio Analysis, Derivatives and Credit Analysis. Strong finance professional with a PGDM focused in Finance from Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode.

Charles R. Féghali is currently serving as the Head of Investment at Azimut (DIFC) and holding the position of Senior Portfolio Manager for Azimut Sukuk...

Charles R. Féghali is currently serving as the Head of Investment at Azimut (DIFC) and holding the position of Senior Portfolio Manager for Azimut Sukuk strategies. With an extensive career spanning over two decades, Charles stands as a seasoned investment expert with a distinguished track record in fixed income, equities, forex, and derivatives. Prior to his role at Azimut, he showcased his expertise as Head of Investment at Prometheus Capital Finance, a reputable Italian asset management firm based in the dynamic Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Charles also held a significant role as Senior Vice President in the investment department of Banco Espirito Santo in Dubai managing multi-asset discretionary portfolios. Charles holds a BA in Economics from the American University of Beirut.

Robert has more than 25 years of experience in the investment-making business. He has been heading Mashreq Capital as CEO and Head of Asset Management...

Robert has more than 25 years of experience in the investment-making business. He has been heading Mashreq Capital as CEO and Head of Asset Management since 2017 and has been with the firm since 2011. As chairman of the Investment Committee, he steers the investment process, monitors investment activities, and is managing dynamic active strategies. He is also serving on the board of directors of the Gulf Bond and Sukuk Association. Robert started his career at the treasury of Dresdner Bank Latainamerica AG managing EMD investments and subsequently held various roles in market risk management for financial start-ups. Robert holds a master’s degree in Economics from the University of Hamburg and is a CFA charter holder.

Ali Hamoudi is a seasoned financial services executive expert with extensive experience in international markets, particularly in the UK and the Middle East. He has...

Ali Hamoudi is a seasoned financial services executive expert with extensive experience in international markets, particularly in the UK and the Middle East. He has a proven track record in establishing regulated financial startups, Fintech & online trading, and expanding new businesses. Ali is a well-known in the business media in the GCC and the wider MENA and is a frequent guest on CNBC Arabia, Sky News Arabia, Dubai TV, and other major news channels, where he provides expert commentary on financial markets. He also delivers workshops to finance and MBA students at prestigious institutions. His expertise spans areas including team leadership, strategic planning, project management, risk assessment, and customer relationship development. Ali is passionate about the growth of the financial services sector and is committed to sharing his knowledge and experience with others.

Anthony Hobeika has 24 years of experience within economic, sector and financial research and consulting in the MENA region, having been exposed to many of...

Anthony Hobeika has 24 years of experience within economic, sector and financial research and consulting in the MENA region, having been exposed to many of its economic and financial cycles. He currently heads MENA Research Partners, a consulting company offering customised business intelligence to corporations in the Middle East & North Africa, focusing on on economic, sector, market and financial research, providing products like economic reports, equity and fixed income research, business plans, feasibility studies, market surveys, database building, among others with a client base made of financial and non-financial institutions. Previously, Anthony was head of research and strategy at Gulf Capital, a leading alternative asset management company as well as an economist at Bank Audi in Lebanon. He is a MBA graduate of the prestigious Paris-Dauphine University in France.

Joydeb joined Lighthouse Canton in 2020 as Vice President- Fixed Income Selections and Investment Counselling. Based in Dubai, Joydeb’ s focus is on enhancing and...

Joydeb joined Lighthouse Canton in 2020 as Vice President- Fixed Income Selections and Investment Counselling. Based in Dubai, Joydeb’ s focus is on enhancing and strengthening the Fixed Income proposition as well as monitoring key portfolios, recommending investment opportunities and adopting risk mitigation strategies for clients of Lighthouse Canton. With over 22 years of experience in the financial services industry, Joydeb ‘s domain expertise is Wealth Management/Investment advisory. His strong understanding of global financial markets and client requirements at the same time gives us a unique perspective to delivery of solutions for clients. Prior to Lighthouse Canton, Joydeb worked in esteemed institutions like Bank J Safra Sarasin, Citibank and HSBC to name a few. Joydeb holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Finance Specialization) and is also a CFA charter holder.

Mr. Shestakov was educated at Moscow University and received a Soros Scholarship to study at Oxford University where he read for a philosophy DPhil at...

Mr. Shestakov was educated at Moscow University and received a Soros Scholarship to study at Oxford University where he read for a philosophy DPhil at Balliol College. He worked as a journalist in England and from 1991 he worked in London and Moscow as a management consultant for a number of Russian projects. In August 1992 he became the founding Managing Director of Global Fund Management S.A

Amol is managing the firm’s successful FMP franchise totaling more than $250m and he leads the team’s coverage of emerging market bonds and has a...

Amol is managing the firm’s successful FMP franchise totaling more than $250m and he leads the team’s coverage of emerging market bonds and has a successful track record in this high-risk/return area. He is the lead manager of Mashreq Capital’s award-winning conventional MENA fixed-income fund which has a track record of more than 10 years. Amol started his career in 2007 as a Credit Rating Analyst with S&P’s Indian office. He built on that experience by working with both the buy-side and Sell-side firms focusing on global emerging market credits. Amol is a CFA charter holder and holds an MBA in Finance from the Indian Institute of Finance, Delhi. He is also a Chemical Engineer by graduation.

Dr Anita Yadav is a seasoned capital markets expert with nearly 30 years of experience in global debt markets. She is a Senior Advisor to...

Dr Anita Yadav is a seasoned capital markets expert with nearly 30 years of experience in global debt markets. She is a Senior Advisor to the New Development Bank in Shanghai. She has previously served in many roles across the globe, such as Managing Director, Head of Global Markets at Nomura in India, Head of Research at UBS in Sydney, Head of Credit sales at ANZ in Singapore, and CEO of Global Credit Advisory in Dubai, etc. She holds a PhD in Global Debt Markets from French University and has been a management and leadership student at Oxford University. She is the founding director of the Gulf Capital Markets Association and serves on several other private boards.