Cautious approval for Dubai sukuk ambition

Some analysts see the ambition of overtaking London as the world capital of the sukuk business, as a challenge for Dubai's initiative to become the capital of the global Islamic economy. Mohieddine Kronfol, the chief investment officer for global sukuk and fixed income business for Franklin Templeton, thinks Dubai can establish itself in a leadership position in the long-term. Kronfol believes Dubai and the region need to be more mature in their overall approach to finance if they are to lead the Islamic economy. He cites the lack of a pension fund industry, the relative immaturity of the insurance and asset management businesses as examples of lack of financial depth.