Dubai Press Club hosts discussion about delivering performance in challenging times

This is amid the deluge of negative news about the global equity market, credit crunch, inflation and volatile oil prices. The event will also launch ABN AMRO's Global Economic Review.

Experts from ABN AMRO and the Dubai School of Government will provide insight into current macroeconomic developments, focusing in particular on the tough realities of globalization and the systemic risks facing the world's economy today. Invitees will learn about forecasts for 2008/2009 and how to achieve performance in these challenging times.

According to Farhad Aftabroushad, Market Leader Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa from ABN AMRO:

"Although Quarterly Outlooks are published regularly by our Private Banking Division, we anticipate a strong interest in this particular report due to the current state of the global economy, high volatility in the financial markets and the upcoming US elections."

As for Tarik Yousef, Dean of the Dubai School of Government:

"This event will enrich ongoing discussions in Dubai about the current economic situation as well as prospects for the future. It might raise more questions than it answers, but we welcome the opportunity to take part in realistic and timely analysis with ABN AMRO."

The event will host Didier Duret, Global Chief Investment Officer, ABN AMRO private banking, who will highlight the Q4 Investment Outlook "Back to Basics." He will be stress the fact that the era of "exotic investments" has taken a step back, giving way to a simple, down-to-earth approach to money management.

Mr. Duret will elaborate his statement that in a global slowdown, the relative difference between economies and companies will make a real difference in achieving strong performance in 2009.

Addressing the audience at DPC, François Moute (Chairman, Neuflize Private Assets) will share his insights and investment strategies, focusing in particular on the US market.

Mohamed Lahouel, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the Dubai School of Government, will complete the panel by challenging the discussion points with a focus on GCC markets.