Muscat: The 16th Annual Meeting of the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds (IFSWF) concluded in Muscat, marking the largest gathering in its history. The event, which was hosted by the Sultanate of Oman, represented by Oman Investment Authority (OIA), took place between 3 to 6 November 2024. It set a record for the number of attendees, with more than 300 participants from over 46 countries, including heads of states, ministers, and CEOs representing over 50 sovereign wealth funds.

According to Oman News Agency, the annual meeting witnessed several side meetings focused on exploring investment cooperation and opportunities. In recognition of the rich discussions held during the meeting, forum members decided to elevate the status of the accompanying conference, renaming this edition to the ‘Muscat Dialogue.’ The gathering will take the name of the host city each year, creating a dynamic platform that promotes dialogue and cooperation on investment, sustainable development, and global economic issues
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The 2024 sessions and the accompanying conference included a wealth of panel discussions and meetings, where participants addressed key investment topics chosen to align with Oman Vision 2040’s national priorities. These discussions covered areas such as energy transition, artificial intelligence, supply chains, the advancing roles and responsibilities of sovereign wealth funds, and the rise of multi-purpose funds.

IFSWF members elected a new Board of Directors, chaired by Israfil Mammadov, CEO of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan, succeeding Obaid Amrane, CEO of Ithmar Capital. Additionally, the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, received the handover to host the 17th Annual Forum in 2025, while Greece won the bid to host the 18th Annual Meeting in 2026 following a members’ vote.