A year of remarkable growth and innovation! Al Salam Bank's asset management arm, ASB Capital, is celebrating a significant milestone, and it's a story that deserves to be told.
A Rising Star in the Financial World
ASB Capital, launched during the Gateway Gulf event in Bahrain, has witnessed an impressive 30% growth in assets under management (AUM), reaching a staggering USD 5.8 billion. But here's where it gets controversial: this achievement was accomplished within just one year!
The firm's success can be attributed to its diverse investment offerings, including the ASB State Street Global Equity Fund, ASB MENA Equity Fund, and the ASB Technology Fund, providing investors with a well-rounded portfolio. And this is the part most people miss: ASB Capital's Sukuk Fund, a unique offering in the region, has played a pivotal role in their success, with a total issuance size exceeding USD 2 billion.
Expanding Horizons, Expanding Opportunities
ASB Capital's influence extends beyond its impressive AUM. The firm has expanded its reach by offering advisory and portfolio management services to high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and institutional clients. This expansion has resulted in a significant increase in discretionary and non-discretionary portfolios under their management.
As part of the Al Salam Bank Group, ASB Capital has been a driving force behind the Group's investment and capital markets activities. In 2025 alone, they played a crucial role in several regional issuances, solidifying their position as a key player in the market.
And the growth story continues! ASB Capital is set to launch the XASB Sukuk ETF in partnership with Xtrackers by DWS, further broadening their investment offerings and reinforcing their commitment to innovation in asset management.
A Vision for the Future
Rafik Nayed, the CEO of Al Salam Bank Group and Managing Director of ASB Capital, commented on this remarkable journey: "ASB Capital's first year is a testament to our long-term growth strategy. We've focused on building trust, fostering strong client relationships, and expanding our investment horizons. The success of our capital markets transactions and the growth in AUM reflect our dedication to delivering exceptional value to our clients."
Both Al Salam Bank and ASB Capital are leveraging Bahrain's thriving financial ecosystem to scale their operations regionally. Their shared vision is to provide comprehensive, client-centric financial solutions, covering banking, asset management, and investment advisory services.
So, what's next for ASB Capital? With their innovative approach and commitment to growth, the sky's the limit!
What do you think? Is ASB Capital's success a result of their strategic vision, or is there more to it? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!