Trade is at the cultural and historic heart of Islam, with its spread echoing the reach of ancient trade routes across the world and acting as a centralizing force to encourage integration, collaboration and poverty alleviation. Those tenets are as true today as they were a thousand years ago, and in this week’s cover story we explore the opportunities – and challenges – facing the current trade finance sector for Islamic players.
Our IFN reports bring you an exploration of the latest in Muslim philanthropy, while our IFN Correspondents update you on New Zealand, Iran, Pakistan and Brunei and our special reports are provided by NCTM Studio Legale Associato on investment opportunities in Italy, INCEIF on corporate Waqf for microfinance and Millenium Capital on the economic and legal effects of Ijarah. Features come from the Bank of Korea, Hikmah Capital Corp and Elixir Capital while our in-house analyses this week look at Sudan and private equity and venture capital.
During this quiet period of fasting, we hope that this jam-packed issue provides you with ample food for thought – succoring the mind and spirit while the body strives towards peace and reflection.