Ray Dalio Applauds Gulf's Resurgence Amid Global Turmoil

Hedge fund titan Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, has highlighted the Gulf states in the Middle East, particularly the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as promising investment opportunities amid a period of global disorder. Dalio emphasized the importance of countries having a good income statement, balance sheet, a culture of development and productivity, and being outside of major conflicts. The Gulf states, leveraging their oil wealth, strategic location, and long-term development plans, have become attractive spots for foreign investment and fundraising. The region's sovereign wealth funds, with over $4 trillion in assets, are drawing interest from venture capitalists and startup founders. Additionally, the UAE and Saudi Arabia's geopolitical positioning as "middle powers" allows them to maintain good relations with both the Western world and heavyweights like Russia and China, maximizing advantages in trade and political influence. As U.S. influence wanes, Dalio sees the Gulf states as key players in a world of shifting power dynamics.