Dubai’s Emirates NBD has formed a strategic partnership with BlackRock to offer its wealth management clients access to private market investments. This collaboration aims to diversify investment options and provide higher returns compared to traditional assets.
The two firms signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish an investment platform for the UAE wealth management sector. Initially, the platform will focus on private credit and multi-alternative investment opportunities. Private markets, including equity and credit investments, are known for higher potential returns despite lower liquidity.
BlackRock: Growing Interest in Private Investments
Demand for private market investments has surged as investors look beyond traditional stock and bond markets. Rising borrowing costs and fluctuating capital markets have driven this shift. In response, BlackRock invested $28 billion in 2024 to expand its private market offerings.
Through this partnership, Emirates NBD Asset Management clients will gain access to BlackRock’s Alternative Investments platform. This platform currently manages over $450 billion in assets, making it one of the largest in the industry.
Strengthening Wealth Management in the UAE
This collaboration highlights the increasing sophistication of wealth management services in the UAE. Financial institutions are continuously enhancing investment options, and private markets are now a key area of focus.
By working with BlackRock, Emirates NBD ensures its clients can explore global private markets. The bank’s strategy supports high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors in building diversified portfolios.
As financial landscapes evolve, partnerships like this drive innovation in wealth management. Investors are looking beyond traditional assets, and Emirates NBD’s alliance with BlackRock positions it at the forefront of private market investments in the UAE.
