The six countries comprising the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)--Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman--have emerged as a vital source of stable capital and investments that will help power global economics in the coming decades. In Gulf Capital and Islamic Finance, Aamir A. Rehman, the acclaimed author of Dubai & Co.: Global Strategies for Doing Business in the Gulf States, sheds welcome light on the hows and whys of trillions of dollars of Gulf capital, and Shariah-compliant finance--a fast-growing sector that Standard & Poor's values at $750 billion. In addition to incisive analysis of these dynamic, often unfamiliar markets, Rehman examines this sector's growth potential and investment opportunities. Clearly written, brilliantly reasoned, and refreshingly free from geopolitical biases, this book is an excellent resource for professionals seeking to understand Gulf investments, Islamic finance, and their impact on global markets. Inside, you'll find in-depth knowledge on a host of vital topics, including: Background and context on the rise of Gulf capital and Islamic finance: their origins, evolution to date, and current landscape Descriptions of key GCC institutional investors such as sovereign wealth funds, specialist investment vehicles, and private investors Global implications of the rise of these new players--what it means for investors, bankers, regulators, and international markets The role of Gulf capital and Islamic finance in an emerging, multipolar world--and whether they should be seen as opportunities or threats Involvement with Gulf-based investors in international markets is already bearing financial and strategic fruit for savvy global firms, as well as influencing reform in the GCC region. The flow of capital in and out of Shariah-compliant sectors presents tremendous opportunities for those who understand--and are prepared to meet--the aspirations and needs of these investors. Gulf Capital and Islamic Finance provides these firms and professionals with in-depth knowledge that builds a solid platform for dealing with businesses in a region that is assuming a broader role in the global economy