DUBAI, UAE, February 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest Investment Manager Outlook, a quarterly survey of U.S. investment managers conducted by Russell Investments and intended to create a meaningful picture of their sentiment each quarter, expects U.S. equity markets to rise over the 12 months ending December 2011. 40% expect the markets to increase by 10% or more in 2011.

This optimistic outlook is based on continued improvements in corporate fundamentals as well as further growth opportunities: managers are looking outside the United States for more robust economic growth. As they consider the year ahead, they believe that the emerging consumer in Asia will be a key driving force for the markets to continue moving upward.

Aware of the growth opportunities in the Middle East, Russell has opted to partner with Rayan Asset Management to introduce Russell's investment solutions to regional institutional investors looking to diversity into global markets. Based in the UAE Rayan was established by several senior local businessmen with backgrounds in the banking and financial services sector. Farid Bedjaoui is the co-founder of the company and is supported by a team of experienced business professionals.

Since 2002, its extensive local expertise has introduced Middle Eastern investors to Russell's innovative global investment solutions. This ongoing collaboration will continue to help them restructure their existing international investments, and setup first class investment solutions, guidelines and policies. In addition, investors in the region will be able to increasingly access Russell's consulting and advisory services.

This partnership is unique in respect of the synthesis of knowledge and skills that Rayan and Russell bring to the table and which will directly benefit new and existing clients in the ME. Faced with the issue of how best to develop its offering in the ME, Rayan's understanding of local markets combined with the management's experience in investment was a key determinate for Russell choosing to work with Rayan.

Also, Rayan plays a key role in promoting the multi-manager concept across the ME and with Russell's help, it will give investors access to a multi-manager offering from the global leader in this field.

Commenting for Rayan Asset Management, Farid Bedjaoui says, "We are very proud of the results achieved in the past years through our alliance with Russell. Our track record has demonstrated the attractiveness of Russell's investment solutions including its multi-manager suite of products."

    
    For more information, please contact:
    Monika Magda
    Tel : +97143900100

SOURCE The Office of Mr Farid Bedjaoui