The Gulf Capital Market Association (GCMA), the trade association representing the Arabian Gulf fixed income market, announced that it has filled key officer positions for 2017.

The announcements were made at GCMA’s annual gala dinner held in Dubai on Tuesday that was attended by senior executives, government officials and diplomats including Paul Malik, Consul General of the United States in Dubai. The event was made possible by Platinum Sponsor Janus Capital Group and Gold Sponsor Natixis.

Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Center delivered the keynote address commenting, “The very existence of institutions such as The Gulf Capital Market Association and the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre is proof that we have all the skills and resources to create a vibrant Islamic finance ecosystem.“

Andy Cairns, Managing Director, Global Head of Debt Origination & Distribution, National Bank of Abu Dhabi, has been appointed as Chairman of the GCMA Regional Board. Anita Yadav, Senior Director – Global Markets & Treasury, Head of Fixed Income Research, Emirates NBD, has been appointed as Acting Vice Chair.

An award for appreciation was given to Stuart Anderson, Managing Director and Head of Middle East for S&P Global Ratings who chaired GCMA’s Steering Committee from 2014 to 2016. Stuart Anderson, commented, “It has been a great honor to serve as Chairman of a body that will lead the industry for many years into the future.”

Incoming GCMA Chairman Andy Cairns said, “2016 was a record year for GCC capital markets issuance and I expect continued growth during 2017. This affords a great opportunity for GCMA and I look forward to playing a leadership role in the association at this exciting time”.

GCMA President Michael Grifferty reflected on the group’s accomplishments in 2016 and outlined plans for 2017 including intensified advocacy, expanded industry fora and white papers to set the agenda for the industry’s further advancement.