Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), in partnership with global asset manager Franklin Templeton, has launched the Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund (the Fund) to support the development of Qatar’s financial markets and expand investment opportunities within the local equities sector.
The Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund, structured as a day-traded mutual fund with an initial capital of $200 million, is designed to provide both local and international investors with access to an actively managed portfolio of equities listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE).
The initiative enables participants to benefit from the performance of Qatari stocks while supporting market liquidity and long-term economic growth.
The QIA, serving as the Fund’s lead investor, contributed both cash and shares to the portfolio, reaffirming its commitment to the Qatari stock market and the broader economic landscape. The allocation of shares in QSE-listed companies demonstrates the sovereign fund’s dedication to fostering liquidity, stability, and depth in the nation’s capital markets.
Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi Chief Executive Officer QIA
“With the launch of the Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund, the QIA continues to expand its active asset management initiatives in support of Qatar’s financial markets. Franklin Templeton’s global expertise and extensive resources will complement our efforts to strengthen the QSE and contribute to the growth of the Qatari economy. We look forward to a long-term, productive partnership.”
Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, noted that, “This fund represents an important milestone in our commitment to Qatar and its financial markets. Drawing on over 25 years of investment experience in the Middle East, we are excited to leverage our on-the-ground portfolio management and research capabilities to actively support Qatar’s capital markets. Our collaboration with the QIA is the beginning of a long-term strategic partnership and part of a broader, multi-asset-class engagement.”
