Ben Powell, Chief Middle East and APAC Investment Strategist, BlackRock Investment Institute (BII), opened Day 2 of the Arqaam Capital 12th Annual MENA Investor Conference 2025

Ben Powell, Chief Middle East and APAC Investment Strategist, BlackRock Investment Institute (BII), opened Day 2 of the Arqaam Capital 12th Annual MENA Investor Conference 2025 with a timely look at how structural forces are reshaping global capital markets.

Rather than being shaped by short-term cycles, today’s investment environment is being driven by long-term, overlapping shifts: the rise of artificial intelligence, the reconfiguration of global supply chains, demographic divergence, geopolitical fragmentation, and the acceleration of the energy transition. 

Ben Powell, CFA highlighted that these mega forces are contributing to structurally higher inflation, a higher-for-longer interest rate environment, and greater uncertainty around future market outcomes. In this context, he emphasized the need for a more precise and dynamic investment approach, moving beyond broad allocations toward more targeted exposure across geographies, sectors, and long-term themes.

He also noted the growing role of private capital in financing future infrastructure, from energy and AI to advanced manufacturing, particularly as public balance sheets face constraints.

The GCC is increasingly aligned with these shifts. With its investment in next-generation energy systems, digital infrastructure, and long-duration assets, the region is well-positioned to attract global capital seeking resilience, diversification, and long-term opportunity.