US-based Russell Investments, a leading consultancy services firm, recently completed 35 years of operations in the Middle East since it won its first client in Saudi Arabia in 1975.

Russell has expanded its array of services and clients, and has established close partnerships with Rayan Asset Management in Dubai, Jadwa Investment in Saudi Arabia and, most recently, with Tadawul, the Saudi Stock Exchange.

Russell aims to create a set of new regional funds totaling $5 billion – $10 billion AuM (assets under management) over the next five years, to help improve international recognition, liquidity and to develop interest across the world in investing in regional funds.

Also over the next five years, Russell expects to add $20 billion of assets under management or under advisement by Russell in the region through its consultancy and fiduciary management services, according to a statement.

Russell has also released its Global Market Outlook for 2011.

“This region is home to some of the world’s most sophisticated investors. It has also come a long way in the last decade in establishing itself as a hub for offering attractive investment opportunities and offering professional investment management services,” Pascal Duval, executive managing director of Russell Investments for EMEA.

“After 3 difficult years for the Global and regional economy, we believe the timing is right to increase further our focus in the Middle East where Russell started advising clients 35 years ago.”

“Russell offers today world class solutions in diversified investment strategies, choice of managers and ways to manage risk and return. Through our partnerships with Rayan Asset Management, Jadwa Investment and Tadawul we are making them broader,” he added.

Farid Bedjaoui, founder, owner and president of Rayan Asset Management, Russell’s long-standing partner in the region, said: “We have built a strong partnership based on trust with Russell. They provide us and our clients with unique, innovative investment opportunities not available elsewhere.”

“Our track record demonstrates the attractiveness of Russell’s investment solutions including its multi-manager suite of products.  Our clients have been able to take advantage of Russell’s world class expertise to improve the quality of their investments,” he concluded. – TradeArabia News Service