The Financial Pulse – Exciting Monthly

Statecraft, Volatile portfolios and more – January 2025

Resilience, Rate Cuts & Risk-Taking: Welcome to January

Ah, January—the month of fresh starts, bold resolutions, and market recalibrations. While some are busy crafting New Year’s resolutions they won’t keep, we’re over here positioning for what’s shaping up to be a volatile year. With a potential recession looming in 2026, strategic moves now will pay off later. Let’s dive in.

Key Highlights & Achievements
TFE AUM Distribution: Managing $16 million in assets requires precision. Here’s a snapshot of how allocations are structured across different solution types:

📊 AUM Breakdown:

  • Fixed Income: 30% (Aligning with our fixed-income positioning strategy)
  • Private Equity: 25%
  • Open Architecture Equities: 13%
  • Property Investments: 10%
  • Contractual & Life Insurance Plans: 5%
  • Art Investments: 0.4%
  • Luxury Liquids: 0%
  • Cash: 16.6%

This diversification ensures stability while capitalizing on high-growth opportunities. The shift towards fixed income reflects anticipation of 2026 market conditions.

Investors Distribution: Understanding Our Investor BaseWith 43 investors onboard, here’s how our client segments break down:

📊 Investor Breakdown:

  • UHNW (>$1M AUM): 7%
  • HNW ($0.5M – $1M AUM): 18%
  • Affluent Investors ($0.25M – $0.5M AUM): 30%
  • Emerging Wealth Investors ($125K – $250K AUM): 40%
  • Early Accumulators (<$125K AUM): 5%

Macro Analysis for Our Investors

Since he returned to office, Donald Trump started with series of decisions and media tittles that boosted the volatility in the market place not only in the US but also triggering soverign unrest around the glob all the way from the east in china to the noth in europe, russia and near home canda and latin america passing throguh the middle east and africa. for more details how new lines on the maps are affecting the charts read the details in this article.
  • The Fed’s Dilemma: Inflation is cooling, but not enough for Powell to hit the brakes on rates. Expect a more cautious approach—think late Q2 or early Q3 for that first cut.
  • Tech & AI Bubble? Not quite. The winners are separating from the hype stocks, so picking the right names matters more than ever.
  • Private Credit Surge: As banks remain conservative, private lending is filling the gap, creating opportunities for savvy investors.
  • Geopolitical Risk: The global chessboard remains unpredictable. Oil prices are steady for now, but any disruption could flip the script.

TFE Coincident Signal Model Analysis

The economy remains in a Recovery Phase, marked by:

  • Increasing GDP growth.
  • Stable unemployment.
  • Declining inflation.
  • Improving manufacturing activity.
    👉 View the Detailed Report

TFE Early Signal Model Analysis

  • Short-Term (3–6 months): Moderate growth in resilient sectors like technology and healthcare, with rising volatility.
  • Mid-Term (6–12 months): Geopolitical risks and elevated borrowing costs could push the economy toward stagnation or mild contraction.
    👉 View the Detailed Report

Actionable Insight: Focus on growth-oriented sectors that align with this economic phase, such as technology and consumer

Community Engagements:

  • The Exchange Book Club: we had the chance to discuss Nexus by the infamous Yuval Harrari and highly recommended reading for every intellect curious about AI and the progrssion of information networks from the stone age to the future of humanity. for more details please read here
  • Upcoming Events: Speaking at “Costly Investment Mistakes” Online. for registration here
  • Podcast: “The Financial Engineer Talks” previously the economist exchange and now it is podcast that we kicked in January 2025. the episodes are still getting in shape. yet it is very excting to share weekly econmic and trending insights that affect our portfolios and strategies. feel free to suggest topics or questions you would like me discuss. please enjoy it here

Thank you

Final Thoughts: Staying Ahead in 2025

As we navigate a year filled with opportunities and challenges, staying informed and adaptable is key. With strategic shifts in fixed income, a balanced AUM distribution, and a diverse investor base, we’re well-positioned for what’s ahead.

The focus remains on resilience, smart allocation, and long-term value creation—because in an ever-changing market, discipline beats speculation.

If you’re ready to refine your investment strategy or explore new opportunities, let’s talk. The best time to plan for 2026 is now.

Until next month—stay sharp, stay liquid, and stay ahead.

📩 Let’s Connect: Linkedin

see you next month


Excited for Closing the Year with Purpose and Precision – December 2024

“Closing the Year with Purpose and Precision”

December is not just a month of reflection but one of action. As the year ends, we’ve focused on deepening client engagements, refining strategies, and seizing opportunities in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

Key Highlights

  1. Collaboration with MediaLine
    This month, I was featured in a thought-provoking article written by Jacob Wirtchafter and published by MediaLine, positioning me as “Mister Prudence” for balanced perspective on the crypto ecosystem in the UAE.
    • Key Insights Shared: The UAE’s crypto-friendly environment compared to U.S. regulatory challenges and the role of Bitcoin echosystem in advancing this financial literacy. This experience reaffirmed the importance of being a trusted voice in emerging markets.
    👉 Read the Full Article Here: MediaLine: Crypto and Prudence
  2. Spotlight on Bitcoin
    As Bitcoin hit all-time highs, we revisited the 👉 Donkey Trader Story, a timeless analogy of speculative greed. It resonated deeply across social platforms, sparking meaningful conversations about prudence in volatile markets.
  3. Client-Centric Success
    December was a month of meaningful client engagements:
    • Conducted portfolio reviews for long-term investors and more and more understanding the urgent need of creating Family Finance Services.
    • Explored real Estate investment opportunities Rak properties that was our first time in the UAE, which was blast given the rising appetite and demand in anticipateion of the wynn casino.
    • Ongoing investments in strategic opportunities in high-performing sectors like AI, and blockchain and Qauntum Computing, while accumulating postions in Low Cycle-Energy-Assets.
  4. Refining the Investment White Paper
    We completed and launched a comprehensive investment white paper, integrating AI to refine financial analysis and quantum qualifications for more resilient portfolios. This framework will guide our growth-focused strategies for 2025.

Macro Analysis for Our Investors

TFE Coincident Signal Model Analysis

The economy remains in a Recovery Phase, marked by:

  • Increasing GDP growth.
  • Stable unemployment.
  • Declining inflation.
  • Improving manufacturing activity.
    👉 View the Detailed Report

TFE Early Signal Model Analysis

  • Short-Term (3–6 months): Moderate growth in resilient sectors like technology and healthcare, with rising volatility.
  • Mid-Term (6–12 months): Geopolitical risks and elevated borrowing costs could push the economy toward stagnation or mild contraction.
    👉 View the Detailed Report

Actionable Insight: Focus on growth-oriented sectors that align with this economic phase, such as technology and consumer discretionary.

Reflections & Gratitude

This December, I’m deeply grateful for:

  • Investors Trust: Your questions and engagements inspire continuous growth.
    One of the things I value most about my work is the trust you place in me to guide your financial strategies. Your feedback and introductions to like-minded individuals mean so much and allow me to grow our community intentionally.
  • Professional Growth: Opportunities like contributing to MediaLine elevate the reach of our insights.
  • Corporate Collaboration: as the trend for corporate well being is increasing in the UAE, i’m excited to collaborate with Noor Corporate Wellness. Stay tuned for updates in future editions.

Looking Back, Looking Forward: Defining Our Focus and Building the Community

As we wrap up 2024 and step into 2025, four key pillars continue to guide our work:

  1. AI Implications in Wealth Management: Leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver tailored, data-driven insights while maintaining a human touch.
  2. Family Finance and Succession Planning: Ensuring wealth and sound Financial Education is preserved, grown, and passed on efficiently across generations.
  3. Increasing the Gap Between Investing and Day Trading: Helping investors focus on meaningful, strategic decisions rather than chasing short-term trends for income generation.
  4. Who Are You in This System?: Recognizing the financial system’s biases and equipping clients to navigate and thrive within it.

These Pillars are the foundation of our strategies, creating clarity, resilience and growth.

Empowering Through Engagement:
In 2025, we’re doubling down on our mission to foster growth, learning, and collaboration within our community.

  • The Exchange Book Club: Continue to explore transformative ideas, one page at a time. Together, we’ll uncover the wisdom that fuels financial and personal growth.
  • The Live Trader’s Hub: A space to sharpen skills, share strategies, and master the markets—live and in real-time.
  • The Economist Exchange: Dive deep into global trends and market dynamics with thought leaders and peers.

These platforms are the ecosystems designed to empower, educate, and inspire.


Spotlight Thought: Peace of Mind and Fixed Income

A client recently asked me: “What’s the best way to achieve security and peace of mind while generating fixed income?”

I shared this analysis comparing three options: Treasury Notes, Corporate Loan Notes, and Secured Bonds. Each promised income, but the differences in risk, collateral, and resilience revealed surprising lessons.

The result? peace of mind isn’t just about returns, it’s about choosing the right balance of security and returns.

👉 Read the Full Story Here


Closing Notes

December has been a month of strategic positioning and reflection. As we step into 2025, I look forward to building on this momentum and creating lasting legacies together.

Thank you for your trust and partnership. Let’s make 2025 a year of focus, growth, and extraordinary achievements.

Warm regards,
Mohamad

November Reflections: Building Wealth with Clarity, Creativity, and Consistency

As November comes to a close, I’m reflecting on the lessons and progress made this month. It’s been a period of steady growth, creative problem-solving, and meaningful client engagements.

From repositioning client portfolios to brainstorming innovative strategies for 2025, this month reinforced my commitment to building and protecting wealth through disciplined, thoughtful actions. Here’s a glimpse into the key highlights and insights from November:


Key Highlights:

  1. Client Success Stories:
    • Helped a retired client reposition her portfolio for steady growth while ensuring her expenses are fully covered. Seeing her financial independence thrive at just 38 is a powerful reminder of the impact of strategic wealth management.
  2. Creative Engagement Ideas for 2025:
    • Proposed a villa open-house event and a Ramadan dhow iftar to elevate client relationships through unique, engaging experiences.
  3. Strategic Market Moves:
    • Adjusted investor portfolios by moving from gold to mid-to-long-term strategies, aligning with shifting market trends.
  4. Personal Growth:
    • Made progress on writing my second book, “The Big Scam,” which delves into financial truths and myths.

Actionable Insights:

Here are three key takeaways from this month:

  • Clarity and Creativity Fuel Progress: Defining clear objectives and executing them creatively builds momentum.
  • Boring is Effective: Wealth management thrives on steady, predictable strategies—not adrenaline-driven decisions.
  • Energy Flows Where Focus Goes: Directing energy to the right priorities leads to meaningful results, both personally and professionally.

A Note on Growth:


This year, I’ve been fortunate to expand my services and welcome a select few new investors. These introductions have come through the trusted referrals of my existing clients, and I’m deeply grateful for the confidence they place in me.

As I continue to grow, my focus remains on working with individuals who value strategic, thoughtful financial planning. If you believe someone in your network could benefit from my approach, I’d be happy to explore how I can support their goals.


Looking Ahead:

As we move into December, my focus includes:

  • Designing impactful client strategies tailored to market conditions.
  • Launching engaging events to deepen client relationships in 2025.
  • Continuing to grow The Financial Pulse as a platform for insights and reflections.

If you’d like to discuss your portfolio strategy or know someone who might benefit from my services, feel free to reach out.


Closing Note:

Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to finishing 2024 strong and welcoming an even more prosperous 2025!

How to Open a Bank Account in Dubai Without Being a Resident

Your Ultimate Guide to Opening a Non-Resident Bank Account in Dubai

Dubai isn’t just about luxury malls and record-breaking skyscrapers; it’s a global financial powerhouse attracting investors and expats alike. So if you’re considering diving into the Dubai banking scene and don’t live here, Emirates NBD has a fantastic option for you: a non-resident account. Whether you’re a digital nomad, investor, or expat managing finances from afar, this guide will walk you through the process, benefits, and costs of opening a non-resident account with Emirates NBD.

What’s a Non-Resident Account?

Simply put, it’s a bank account designed for individuals who aren’t residents of the UAE but want to manage their money here. Whether you’re looking to grow your investments, handle international transactions, or park your cash in a stable market, a non-resident account offers the flexibility you need. And yes, you can manage it all without needing a UAE residence visa.

Why Choose Emirates NBD for a Non-Resident Account?

Dubai boasts plenty of banking options, but Emirates NBD is often a top pick for good reasons:

  1. Multiple Currency Options: You can hold funds in AED, USD, EUR, GBP, and more, making international transactions a breeze.
  2. Competitive Interest Rates: You can earn decent interest on your savings while keeping easy access to your funds.
  3. Global Access and 24/7 Convenience: Manage your finances from anywhere in the world through Emirates NBD’s solid online and mobile banking services.
  4. Dedicated Relationship Managers: High-net-worth individuals can enjoy tailored financial solutions through personalized services.
  5. Safe and Regulated Environment: Emirates NBD’s reputation for security means your money is in good hands.

Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Non-Resident Account

Opening an account might sound daunting, but Emirates NBD keeps it simple:

  1. Visit the Website or Nearest Branch: Start by heading to their official account opening page or visit a local branch if you’re in Dubai.
  2. Fill Out the Application: You’ll need to provide your name, contact details, nationality, and select the type of account you want.
  3. Submit Required Documents: Have your passport, proof of address, and possibly a reference letter from your home bank ready to go.
  4. KYC Verification: The bank will conduct a Know Your Customer (KYC) check to verify your identity. Nothing to stress about—just standard protocol.
  5. Activate Your Account: Once your KYC check is complete and approved, you’re all set to start banking.

Types of Accounts Offered for Non-Residents

Emirates NBD offers several account types based on your needs:

  • Savings Accounts: Ideal for earning interest with flexible access to funds.
  • Current Accounts: Best for daily transactions, with options for chequebooks and debit cards.
  • Fixed Deposit Accounts: Earn higher interest by locking in your funds for a set period.
  • Foreign Currency Accounts: Hold funds in various currencies, which is perfect for frequent international transactions.

Key Fees and Minimum Requirements

Before diving in, keep these points in mind:

  • Minimum Balance: For standard savings accounts, the minimum balance requirement starts at around AED 100,000.
  • Account Maintenance Fees: There’s a fee of AED 26.25 per month if your account falls below the required minimum balance​Emirates NBD.
  • Transaction Fees: Charges apply for international transfers and currency exchanges, so plan accordingly.
  • ATM Withdrawal Fees: Using ATMs outside the UAE could incur extra charges, so check with your bank on these specifics​Emirates NBDEmirates NBD.

Manage Your Account on the Go

One of the standout features of Emirates NBD is its robust digital platform. Whether you’re checking balances, transferring funds, or paying bills, you’ve got full access to your account through their online and mobile banking services. You can even reach customer support through chat, email, or phone directly from the app.

Final Thoughts: Why Emirates NBD?

Emirates NBD offers the perfect blend of flexibility, stability, and tailored services for non-resident customers. Whether you’re an investor, an expat, or someone who needs an international banking solution, the non-resident account provides access to a secure and globally recognized bank with all the perks you’d expect.

If you’ve been on the fence about setting up a non-resident bank account in Dubai, consider this your sign to jump in. The setup is straightforward, and the benefits are substantial.

Big Tech, Commodities, and Expectations from the Federal Reserve Actions

With the Federal Reserve possibly trimming rates, commodities giving us mixed signals, and tech stocks behaving like they’ve had too much coffee, now’s a good time to rethink your strategy.

Here’s what we’re dealing with:

Situational Breakdown:

Markets are doing that fun thing where they’re unpredictable. Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole was kind enough to hint at a rate cut in September, something the market has been waiting for like a kid waiting for ice cream. Meanwhile, the Fed is wrestling with its own financial problems, meaning we might not see them back in the black until 2026—good luck with that. Over in the commodities world, there’s buzz about a new super cycle, but let’s not get too excited with recession rumors lurking. And of course, tech stocks are acting jittery, thanks to global outages and fickle investor sentiment.

The Federal Reserve Mess (Because Let’s Be Honest, That’s What It Is):

The Fed is stuck between a rock and a hard place thanks to their Quantitative Easing (QE) strategy. Essentially, they’ve been buying long-term assets like Treasury bonds and Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS) and funding that with short-term liabilities—kinda like buying a mansion on a credit card. The problem? Interest rates have risen, which means their short-term liabilities are getting pricier, while their long-term assets aren’t exactly growing as fast. Cue the losses.

To fix this, the Fed started Quantitative Tightening (QT), trying to cut back on long-term assets to reduce interest costs. Yet, they’re sitting on a $179 billion loss like it’s a bad investment they can’t shake off. So, even with a potential rate cut on the horizon, don’t expect miracles anytime soon.

Why This Matters for You:

Rate cuts are nice, right? Except when the economy feels like it’s built on sandcastles. The Fed’s not-so-pretty balance sheet means more uncertainty for us all. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

  1. Interest Rate Roulette: With the Fed’s financial state looking dicey, multiple rate cuts might be necessary, which messes with any sort of stable planning. If you love predictability, well, now’s not your time.
  2. Market Mayhem: Expect stocks, bonds, and everything in between to keep acting like they’re on a rollercoaster. Good luck figuring out how to hedge against that volatility.
  3. Inflation Wildcard: That $179 billion loss? It could mean more inflation down the road. If you’re sitting on a pile of cash, inflation is going to eat into its value like a hungry teenager at a pizza buffet.
  4. Investment Indecision: Are we going conservative or aggressive? The Fed’s situation is making that decision harder than ever. Spoiler alert: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Where to Park Your Money (Without Losing Your Shirt):

The commodity market is offering some lifelines amidst this chaos, so let’s break down your best bets:

  • Gold: The Classic Safe Haven
    • Inflation on the rise? No problem, gold’s got your back.
    • Bonus: Lower interest rates make it cheaper to hold, which could send demand and prices up.
  • Silver: Not Just the Backup to Gold
    • Works as a hedge against inflation like its shinier cousin, but also has industrial demand. Think electronics, solar panels—basically, stuff that won’t disappear overnight.
  • Oil: Volatile, but Worth Watching
    • If you can stomach the geopolitical drama, oil could be your short-term moneymaker. Just remember, this ride isn’t for the faint-hearted.
  • Copper: The Unsung Hero of Economic Growth
    • It’s not glamorous, but copper is key in everything from construction to green energy. If the economy rebounds, this metal’s in for a serious price hike.

How to Play This Market:

  1. Diversify with Safe Havens: Bump up your allocations to gold and silver. They’ll act like shock absorbers for your portfolio during this chaotic ride. These metals keep their cool when everything else is losing it.
  2. Take Some Risks with Energy and Industrial Metals: If you’re feeling bold, look at oil and copper. They’re volatile, sure, but there’s upside if the economy picks up or if geopolitical tensions give oil prices a nudge. Just don’t bet the farm on it.
  3. Reassess Your Big Tech Exposure: Tech stocks are throwing tantrums after recent outages, so maybe it’s time to trim your exposure there. Cybersecurity, on the other hand, might be a smart pivot—they’re likely to get a boost from all this security drama.
  4. Stay Nimble: This market isn’t the place for rigid strategies. Stay flexible, review your portfolio often, and be ready to make quick adjustments as the situation evolves.

Final Take:

The market’s looking as unpredictable as ever, but that doesn’t mean you can’t position yourself for success. While the Federal Reserve is busy dealing with its own problems, there are still opportunities out there—especially in safe-haven assets and key commodities. Stay sharp, keep your strategy flexible, and you’ll be better prepared to navigate the chaos and capitalize on what’s next.