Doha

In recognition of its excellent investment performance track record, EMEA Finance named Amwal the Best Asset Manager in Qatar in 2013 for the third consecutive year.

In its announcement, EMEA Finance noted"The firm's ability to consistently outperform its benchmarks, and the fact that Qatar Gate Fund has outperformed its benchmark index each year since it was established - the only fund in Qatar to achieve this - makes Amwal a very deserving winner. Additionally, Qatar's goal of making itself an asset management hub for the region requires strong local names like Amwal"

EMEA Finance Head of Asset Management Afa Boran stated:"Our focus has been to build a long term track record, so that year after year we can show investors that a professional and methodical approach to managing money does deliver superior results. Over the past 4 years under the current investment team, the Qatar Gate Fund has outperformed the index by about 30 percent and the closest competitor fund by 6 percent.

When asked of his views on Qatari stocks, Boran said"equities are not as cheap as they used to be six months back so stock selection is key. We see some stocks that are trading at close to 50 percent premium to fair value, as well as others that still offer good upside."