Middle East Investor Relations Association Concludes Successful 2024 Annual Conference In Abu Dhabi

The Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) recently concluded their 2024 Annual Conference & Awards in Abu Dhabi. The event gathered over 800 leaders, including representatives from 150 issuers across the GCC and Middle East, along with 33 stock exchanges and regulators. More than 150 buy-side and sell-side participants from local and global capital markets also attended.

The conference focused on trends, challenges, and innovations shaping investor relations (IR) in the region. Over two days, panels and workshops covered topics like the future of capital markets, dual listings, best practices in IR, and sustainability. Discussions highlighted the growing importance of innovation, transparency, and collaboration as regional capital markets evolve.

A significant feature of this year's conference was exclusive corporate access sessions. These sessions facilitated over 700 one-on-one and group meetings between regional corporates and global investors. Supported by FAB, ADCB, Al Ramz, International Securities, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, and HSBC, these meetings offered investors detailed insights into leading companies' equity stories.

MEIRA launched an AI-focused report titled "Technology & AI in the IR Industry for the Middle East." The report found that 78% of respondents see AI as transformative for IR, especially in data analysis and investor communication. However, it also pointed out challenges like training gaps and data security concerns that need addressing to fully harness AI's potential.

The event provided a platform for insights from over 80 regional and international experts who addressed key issues influencing capital markets. Topics included the rise of GCC markets, AI's role in IR, and integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles within Islamic finance.

New ESG Certification Program

MEIRA announced an ESG Certification program for Investor Relations Officers (IROs). This initiative aims to equip IROs with tools to integrate ESG principles into their strategies. It addresses evolving expectations from investors and stakeholders regarding sustainable practices.

Paolo Casamassima, CEO of MEIRA, stated that as Middle East capital markets grow, investor relations become increasingly vital. He noted that this year's conference emphasized innovation, transparency, and collaboration to foster resilient capital markets. "Our partnership with ADX has been instrumental in delivering a transformative experience," he said.

Casamassima also highlighted MEIRA’s commitment to diversity. He noted that over 70% of the organising team across sponsors were women. "Diversity is not just a value; it is a practice we uphold," he said. "This event reflects the strength and contributions of talented women who continue to inspire us."

Awards Recognising Excellence

The conference concluded with the annual MEIRA IR Awards honouring excellence in IR. Winners included ADNOC Drilling for Leading Corporate for Investor Relations – Middle East; Bader Al Lamki of ADNOC Distribution for Best IR by a CEO – Middle East; Youssef Salem of ADNOC Drilling for Best IR by a CFO – Middle East; First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) for Excellence in ESG Reporting; e& for Best Digital IR – Large Cap.

MEIRA also announced that next year’s Annual Conference & Awards will be held in Oman in October 2025. This event will again bring together the region’s IR community to explore new opportunities and celebrate achievements while continuing to drive industry progress forward.

With inputs from WAM