The Future Investment Initiative (FII) concluded a transformative Day 3 of its eighth annual gathering in Riyadh, unveiling a staggering $70 billion in investment deals. Under the theme “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow,” the summit showcased ambitious projects aimed at fuelling economic development, innovation, and sustainability across emerging markets.
FII Institute CEO Richard Attias praised the day’s achievements, emphasising that “targeted investments can transcend traditional boundaries, creating opportunities to shape the next economic era.” He noted the Institute’s dedication to a long-term vision that supports sustainable and forward-thinking investments as the global landscape continues to evolve.
Highlights from FII8 Day 3
The day kicked off with opening remarks from H.E. Faisal F. Alibrahim, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Economy and Planning. He outlined the crucial role of investments in the country’s Vision 2030 plan, underscoring that non-oil growth will be key to Saudi Arabia’s economic future.
One of the day’s standout sessions was a panel discussion on “Alternative Asset Growth in Emerging Markets,” where leading figures, including H.E. Mohammed El-Kuwaiz of Saudi Arabia’s Capital Market Authority, examined new frontiers in alternative asset growth, identifying high-potential regions set to drive the next wave of global expansion.
A roundtable featuring capital allocators addressed the upcoming year’s trends in alternative assets and diversification strategies, drawing insights from top institutional investors on the vital role these investments will play in navigating economic uncertainties.
The day also featured a “Venture Capital Hotspots” panel, focused on innovation funding, particularly in rapidly growing markets like Saudi Arabia. The session showcased Saudi Arabia’s rise as a significant hub for venture capital and entrepreneurship, spotlighting the nation’s efforts to become a destination for global innovation.
Health Humanity Initiative and the Health Longevity Compass
The FII Institute launched its Health Humanity Initiative, an ambitious global health programme inviting corporations and governments to collaborate on providing preventive health check-ups and reducing healthcare costs worldwide. Major names, such as Moderna, Cleveland Clinic, and Saudi Health in All Policies (HIAP), have already joined, committing to tax-free benefits and reduced health expenses, especially for citizens in developing regions.
Adding to its health-focused agenda, the FII Institute presented findings from its Healthy Longevity Compass survey, conducted with McKinsey Health Institute, which revealed that while 70% of respondents are keen to adopt healthier lifestyles, nearly half in developing countries face barriers to accessing nutritious food.
A Spotlight on Start-Ups: The FII8 Venture Program
Day 3’s “Investment Day” saw five start-up innovators from around the globe showcase technologies addressing critical global challenges in AI, sustainability, healthcare, and education. The start-ups, including Oxccu, Sakuu, Beyond-Aero, Archireef, and Bytelearn, displayed solutions that demonstrate how bold, tech-driven ideas can drive meaningful progress. Sakuu emerged as FII8 Innovator 2024, earning a 2025 membership to the FII Institute and support through the FII Venture Program, which includes over $10 million in funding and market expansion opportunities across Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong.
H.H. Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, closed Day 3 by stressing the importance of global cooperation in addressing critical challenges, including climate change, health crises, and economic inequality. His remarks highlighted the value of international partnerships in fostering a resilient, collaborative future.
As FII8 draws to a close, its emphasis on creating a cohesive framework for sustainable investment, innovation, and collaboration has underscored the FII Institute’s commitment to global change. By connecting capital with meaningful initiatives, the Future Investment Initiative is shaping a new era of growth, making clear that impactful investments will drive a more sustainable and inclusive world.
