Doha: The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Franklin Templeton have announced the launch of the Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund. This initiative marks a collaborative effort between the two entities aimed at enhancing investment opportunities in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE).

According to Qatar News Agency, the Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund is structured as a day-traded mutual fund with an initial capital investment of USD 200 million. The fund's core objective is to offer investors the ability to capitalize on the performance of equities listed on the QSE. This provides both local and international institutions a chance to invest in an actively managed equity portfolio within the Qatari market.

QIA is spearheading the investment, contributing both cash and shares to the fund. This move underscores QIA's ongoing commitment to investing in the Qatari stock market, with a focus on reallocating shares in QSE-listed companies to bolster the local economic environment and improve market liquidity.

Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, CEO of QIA, commented on the expansion of their active asset management initiatives, emphasizing the importance of supporting Qatar's financial markets. He highlighted Franklin Templeton's role as a leading asset management firm poised to bring its vast experience to the QSE and broader Qatari economy. Al Suwaidi expressed anticipation for a fruitful collaboration with Franklin Templeton.

Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, remarked that the fund's launch is a significant milestone in their dedication to Qatar and its financial markets. She noted that the initiative builds on Franklin Templeton's over 25 years of investment experience in the Middle East, supported by local portfolio management and research teams. Johnson stated that the partnership with QIA aims to be a long-term strategic collaboration, part of a broader cooperation across multiple asset classes.

The Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund represents a pivotal advancement in QIA's active asset management strategy, highlighting the partnership's role in bolstering Qatar's capital markets through shared global investment expertise.