Faisal Sarkhou named among the Middle East’s top 10 asset managers for 2025 by Forbes Middle East

Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Faisal Mansour Sarkhou

Kamco Invest, a regional non-banking financial powerhouse with one of the largest AUMs in the region, announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Faisal Mansour Sarkhou, has been named among the Middle East’s Top 10 Asset Managers for 2025 by Forbes Middle East.

Mr. Sarkhou was ranked ninth in Forbes' list of the Middle East’s Top Asset Managers for 2025, published in March, featuring forty of the region’s leading asset management executives. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and expertise of Kamco Invest’s teams, whose collective efforts have strengthened the firm’s position as a leading asset management and investment banking powerhouse in the region.

In its March 2025 edition, the magazine highlighted the company’s strategic expansion, innovative investment solutions, and commitment to growth, as well as Sarkhou’s remarkable two-decade journey at Kamco Invest, from joining in 2000 to leading the company through transformative milestones.

Under Mr. Sarkhou’s leadership, Kamco Invest has built a strong track record in asset management, with a diverse range of investment strategies designed to deliver long-term value for clients. The Company’s success is driven by the talent and commitment of its investment professionals, who continuously analyze market dynamics, identify opportunities, and implement innovative solutions to meet clients’ evolving needs.

The Company has assets under management of USD15.9bn invested in various jurisdictions and asset classes including listed equities, fixed income, private equity, and real estate, amongst others. The year 2024 has witnessed an increase of USD1bn in its assets under management, a growth of 7%.

Mr. Sarkhou in his interview with the magazine mentioned that Kamco Invest’s clients maintain a long-term investment perspective, and periods of market uncertainty can often present opportunities, particularly for investors with available liquidity. Across the region, sophisticated investors are becoming more knowledgeable and increasingly adopting thematic investing and diversified portfolio strategies. The growing prominence of fixed income as an asset class reflects this shift. As we move into 2025, maintaining a well-balanced portfolio remains key, diversification is essential to navigating market dynamics successfully.

Beyond asset management, Forbes Middle East also highlighted the achievements of the investment banking team that has played a pivotal role in executing major capital market transactions across the region. The team has successfully led and advised on 11 high-profile transactions in 2024 valued at USD4.9bn. These transactions comprised nine bond and sukuk issuances for financial institutions and corporates in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, in addition to the largest mandatory tender offer in Kuwait’s insurance sector and the Initial Public Offering of an Omani sovereign-owned oil company.

Commenting on this recognition, Mr. Sarkhou said:

“This recognition is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of the entire Kamco Invest team. I am deeply grateful to our Board of Directors for their unwavering support and strategic guidance, which have been instrumental in shaping the Company’s success. I also extend my sincere appreciation to my colleagues across all divisions, their dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence continue to drive our growth and innovation. This milestone is a reflection of the hard work of everyone who has been part of our journey, and I look forward to achieving even greater success together.”

Kamco Invest remains dedicated to expanding its market presence, enhancing its investment offerings, and continuing to serve clients with excellence. It acknowledges this achievement as a shared success, made possible by the expertise, dedication, and teamwork of its professionals.