Lesha Bank Signs MoU with China Asset Management to Launch a Sharia-Compliant Chinese Equity Fund in Qatar
Lesha Bank (Public LLC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited to strengthen cooperation in investment and capital markets across Qatar, China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The bank said in a statement that the MoU covers exploring and developing joint investment products and solutions, including the launch of a Sharia-compliant Chinese equity fund in Qatar, subject to applicable regulatory requirements and approvals.
Mohammed Ismail Al Emadi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Lesha Bank, described the agreement as an important milestone for the bank. He noted that the Chinese equity fund would be structured within the bank’s asset management business and operate under a Sharia-compliant investment framework, enabling disciplined portfolio construction and providing investors with access to China’s growth opportunities through a risk-conscious approach.
He added that, beyond the transaction itself, the partnership would strengthen the bank’s institutional capabilities and help deepen economic and investment ties between Qatar and China, support the broader cross-border investment community and enhance regional cooperation.
Tian Gan, Chief Executive Officer of China Asset Management (Hong Kong), said: “We are pleased to partner with Lesha Bank on this significant initiative, which also marks our first strategic collaboration in the Middle East market. The MoU reflects our shared commitment to strengthening connectivity between China and the GCC countries.”
He added: “Through this fund, we look forward to providing investors in Qatar and the region with broader opportunities to invest in Chinese companies associated with new quality productive forces—the innovative, fast-growing businesses driving the next phase of China’s economic transformation. At the same time, this partnership will enable eligible Middle Eastern investors to enhance their global investment diversification while strengthening two-way investment channels between our markets.”
The fund will target sectors including artificial intelligence and technology, advanced manufacturing, innovative pharmaceuticals and renewable energy. It is designed to achieve long-term capital growth through the active selection of Sharia-compliant equities in mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as shares of Chinese companies listed overseas, under an “All-China” active equity investment strategy.
Lesha Bank will serve as the fund’s investment manager, while China Asset Management (Hong Kong) will act as its sub-investment manager, with responsibilities including investment decision-making and liquidity management.
