MAGNAV Emirates

Hafsa Dijoo

Vinay Gokaldas , The Finish Line of Investing and Why Long Term Beats Trading

The Finish Line of Investing and Why Long Term Beats Trading

The Finish Line of Investing and Why Long Term Beats Trading By Hafsa Dijoo Vinay Gokaldas does not sound like someone trying to sell you a dream. He sounds more like someone trying to slow you down before you make a costly mistake. In a region flooded with promises of overnight wealth, flashing charts, and ads that shout urgency, Gokaldas speaks in timelines measured in decades. His company, Pasiv, is built on a counterintuitive idea for the UAE’s hyperactive financial scene: that wealth is not something you chase, but something you quietly grow while living your life. When Gokaldas talks about investing, he does not begin with markets or technology. He begins with time. The earlier you start, he explains, the less heroic effort is required later. It is a simple truth, but one that most people ignore until it becomes expensive to ignore. By the time many residents in the UAE begin thinking seriously about their financial future, they are already in their thirties, sometimes their forties. The maths, at that point, becomes unforgiving. To live independently in the UAE during retirement, Gokaldas estimates a minimum annual income of around AED 50,000. Generating that income sustainably means building a capital base of roughly one million dirhams, assuming conservative returns. Most people assume this requires saving the full amount in cash. What they miss is compounding. With disciplined, long-term investing in the stock market, the actual contribution needed over a working lifetime is closer to a third of that figure. The catch is consistency, and consistency is exactly what most people struggle with. Founded in Dubai, Pasiv was designed not for professional traders or financial obsessives, but for people who have jobs, lives, distractions, and limited mental space for managing money. Gokaldas did not want another platform that encouraged users to stare at markets all day. He wanted something that worked quietly in the background, nudging people toward better outcomes without demanding constant attention. One of Pasiv’s defining features is spare-change investing. Small amounts are invested automatically, often without the user feeling the friction of a large, deliberate decision. It is the opposite of the adrenaline-driven trading culture that dominates financial advertising in the region. There are no flashing alerts urging users to buy or sell. There is no pressure to act. The philosophy is simple: small, regular contributions, diversified across long-term assets, allowed to compound over time. Gokaldas is candid about why this approach is rare. Short-term trading platforms make more money when users trade frequently. High commissions and leverage generate revenue, which in turn funds the billboards, YouTube ads, and influencer campaigns that dominate public space. Long-term investing platforms do not generate that kind of margin. By design, they are aligned with the user’s restraint, not their impulsiveness. He is equally candid about the risks most platforms avoid discussing. In speculative trading environments, 80 to 85 percent of users lose money. Leverage magnifies losses as quickly as it magnifies gains. A one percent market move can wipe out an entire account. For professionals who understand these risks and treat trading as a full-time discipline, this may be acceptable. For the average person investing their hard-earned savings, it is often devastating. Pasiv deliberately distances itself from that model. The company operates on a membership-based structure rather than transaction-driven revenue.If users trade less, Pasiv does not suffer. In fact, it thrives. This alignment of interest is something Gokaldas feels is missing from much of the industry. He describes traditional brokers calling clients to encourage more trading as not just outdated, but fundamentally unethical in a modern financial system. Dubai, he believes, was the right place to challenge that norm. For an entrepreneur with deep ties to India and Africa, Dubai sits at a cultural and geographic crossroads. It offered access to talent, capital, and regulatory infrastructure that made experimentation possible. The Dubai International Financial Centre’s innovation sandbox allowed Pasiv to test and refine its model before going fully public. Regulation, often viewed as a barrier elsewhere, became an enabler here. The diversity of the UAE market also revealed something unexpected. While older generations carried cultural preferences shaped by geography, Europeans disciplined with monthly investing, South Asians favouring gold, Middle Eastern investors leaning toward income-producing assets, the younger generation was breaking those patterns entirely. Students and young professionals from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East were often first-time investors in their families, approaching markets without inherited bias. For many, Pasiv was not just an app, but their first introduction to structured financial planning. Still, Gokaldas does not romanticise youth. He observes a clear split. Younger users are more likely to experiment with speculative trading platforms, drawn by the promise of fast results. Long-term investing, on the other hand, often begins after experience has taught a harsher lesson. Losses, volatility, and emotional exhaustion eventually push people toward simplicity. Pasiv meets users at that moment of maturity, but it also tries to reach them earlier, before mistakes become scars. The company’s growth reflects this ethos. Pasiv has avoided aggressive advertising in favour of organic discovery. Users find the platform through search, conversations, or recommendations. The company hosts events, encourages community interaction, and makes a point of calling every customer at least once a year. In an industry built on scale and automation, this level of human contact is almost radical. Gokaldas insists it is not nostalgia. It is a strategy. Trust, once broken in financial services, is difficult to rebuild. Many people arrive at Pasiv disillusioned by previous experiences. Rebuilding confidence requires time, transparency, and the sense that someone is accountable on the other side of the screen. Inside the company, that accountability is personal. Every employee uses Pasiv. Feedback, bugs, and frustrations are experienced internally before reaching customers. For Gokaldas, this is non-negotiable. A product designed to manage people’s futures cannot be theoretical. Looking ahead, Pasiv’s ambitions extend beyond geography. While expansion into markets like India, South Africa, Brazil, and the UK is under discussion, Gokaldas is more excited about how

Redefining Insurance with Reem Al Falasi, the UAE’s Youngest Insurance Trailblazer

Redefining Insurance with Reem Al Falasi, the UAE’s Youngest Insurance Trailblazer

Beyond Premiums Redefining Insurance with Reem Al Falasi, the UAE’s Youngest Insurance Trailblazer By Hafsa Dijoo Life is unpredictable, and with it comes risk. It is only natural to seek protection, a truth that history has shown in many forms, from weapons to financial safety nets. Today, insurance stands as one of the most powerful tools for safeguarding against uncertainty. But is it truly the modern-day answer to all risks and dangers? To explore this question, MAGNAV sat down with Reem Al Falasi, a rising force in the UAE’s insurance industry. Reem’s story is unusual; she quite literally grew up in insurance. Straight out of high school, she joined Liva Insurance, while most of her peers were still unsure about their paths. What drove such a bold decision at such a young age? Reem had already calculated her future. She realised that completing a four-year degree without experience would leave her with little competitive edge at 21. So, in the summer of her final school year, she took a job to gain a taste of real working life. That step changed everything. By autumn, she was enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in Finance at the Higher Colleges of Technology, determined to balance both work and study. Her routine was relentless. Mornings were spent engaging with clients from all walks of life, where she not only built technical knowledge but also mastered the jargon of insurance in both English and Arabic. By 3 p.m., she was heading to her evening university classes, while simultaneously pursuing professional qualifications with the UK’s Chartered Insurance Institute. For four years, she maintained this demanding rhythm. Today, she is one of the youngest advisors of the health and general insurance industry in the UAE with over a decade of industry experience behind her. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed. Reem was recognised as the Best Emirati Employee in the Private Sector by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and later won first place in the Nafes Award, presented by President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. For her, meeting the President remains one of the most treasured milestones of her career, a reminder that every sacrifice and late night was worth it. Clearing the Misconceptions Insurance remains a misunderstood subject. It is often seen as a luxury or dismissed as unnecessary. Reem is passionate about dismantling these misconceptions. “Insurance isn’t a luxury, it’s protection,” she explained. “Even those with the lowest incomes need it, especially when it comes to health, the most vital aspect of life.” She pointed out that in the UAE, medical costs are particularly high due to imported treatments and equipment. Insurance, therefore, is not just a service, it is an essential pillar supporting the country’s healthcare system. Her role, as she describes it, is not simply to sell a policy but to ensure that each one suits the client’s needs and budget. Acting as a bridge between the company and the client, she sometimes even negotiates discounts on premiums to make policies more accessible. The Future of Insurance Looking ahead, Reem believes the sector will become increasingly transparent, with AI technology playing a larger role in analysing risks and simplifying policy terms for clients. But could AI replace human advisors altogether? She answered by stating Al’s role will be most powerful in areas like faster claims automation, fraud detection, and improving pricing accuracy – but never in replacing empathy or trust. “Technology can make us faster, but it cannot make us human,” she notes. She shared that her approach to when someone registers a claim involves carefully revisiting policy exclusions and benefits. Although settlements can drag on for months or years, she works to fast-track legitimate claims by escalating them directly to management. Her advice to policyholders is clear, always read the exclusions, benefits, limits, and warranties. These sections hold the real story of what is covered, and what isn’t. In recent years, the UAE Central Bank has publicly issued fines and suspensions against insurers and brokers for misconduct — a reminder that buyers must stay vigilant and well-informed. But how can buyers spot signs of misconduct? “False promises are the biggest red flag,” Reem warned. “If an agent promises coverage that isn’t written in the policy, that’s when you know you’re dealing with the wrong company.” When asked which insurance is absolutely vital, Reem did not hesitate, medical insurance comes first. Next, she highlighted auto and home insurance, protecting people’s two most valuable assets, their vehicles and their homes. For entrepreneurs, Business Interruptions, and Liabilities Insurance are non-negotiable. Speaking from personal experience as the owner of Slay Café in Nad Al Sheba, Reem has seen firsthand how the right cover protects both the business and its customers. “Running a business gave me a new perspective,” she says. “It’s one thing to advise clients, and another to face risks directly as an entrepreneur.” She also pointed to the rising importance of climate-related coverage. During the UAE floods of 2024, insured households received compensation for damages, underscoring how vital natural disaster protection has become. By contrast, the COVID-19 pandemic revealed gaps in coverage, with many insurers refusing payouts under the argument that pandemics were excluded. “In truth, some policies did cover pandemics, but many clients simply didn’t know. That’s why reading your policy is critical,” Reem stressed. The insurance industry remains male-dominated, and back in 2012, being a young Emirati woman in the field was particularly difficult. Reem recalls being underestimated and stereotyped. Yet, Instead of being discouraged, these challenges fueled her determination. She consistently proved that knowledge and results outweighed assumptions. Through resilience, she not only earned trust but also helped reshape perceptions of Emiratis in the private sector. Her efforts not only proved her own capabilities but also helped shift perceptions of Emiratis in the private sector. Today, she is sought out as a trusted advisor and regularly gives back as a guest speaker and mentor to young professionals. Her advice to the next generation is both simple and powerful, “Don’t hesitate to try. The first failure to your success

Farah Mourad

Farah Mourad The Analyst Clarifying Global Market Shifts

Farah Mourad The Analyst Clarifying Global Market Shifts By Hafsa Dijoo Global financial markets influence every aspect of modern life. Since the beginning of this decade in 2020, the world has faced an unrelenting series of crises from pandemics to geopolitical conflicts, each one amplifying the demand for clear, trustworthy financial insight. MAGNAV had the opportunity to speak with Farah Mourad, a Senior Market Analyst at IG Group, whose rare ability to simplify complex financial trends sets her apart. With a bachelor’s degree in economics and a master’s in communication, Farah brings a rare blend of analytical depth and articulate delivery. She began her professional journey as a reporter at Al Jadeed before joining MBC in the United Arab Emirates as a producer and editor. Over five years in the media industry shaped her ability to communicate with precision skills that now serve her well as a financial analyst. “When I worked in journalism, I delivered the headlines. But as an analyst, I get to uncover what truly lies beneath them.” Farah’s transition into finance was driven by her curiosity during the COVID-19 pandemic. She felt limited by surface-level reporting and sought to understand the deeper forces behind market movements. One moment that stood out was the market panic on August 5, often compared to Black Monday. Despite the alarmist headlines, Farah’s research revealed it was largely media-driven hype. That experience solidified her desire to pursue a more analytical path. At MBC, her work centered primarily on Saudi Arabia’s economy. Today, her scope is global. Farah analyzes markets across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, covering a wide array of instruments from stocks and commodities to currencies, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Reflecting on the impact of the pandemic, she noted how it created an economic shift that, in some ways, rivaled the Great Depression. “More young people are engaging with financial markets. What was once seen as exclusive to the elite is now widely recognized as affecting everyone.” She also pointed out how the pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in globalization. Supply chain disruptions especially when air traffic was grounded made clear the risks of over-dependence. Inflation added more pressure, driving skepticism around fiat currencies and sparking renewed interest in digital assets. “This shift in consumer behavior isn’t temporary. It marks a long-term change in how we perceive money and value.” The conversation turned toward geopolitical tensions, particularly the wars in Ukraine and Palestine. Surprisingly, Farah observed that these conflicts haven’t deeply shaken global markets. Despite widespread concern, stock indices have continued to rise, oil supplies have remained relatively stable, and most price fluctuations were driven by speculation rather than actual disruption. “We’re seeing a new kind of resilience. Investors are no longer shocked by conflict, they plan for it.” She explained that major institutions now factor in multiple scenarios, protecting portfolios against sudden swings. The flood of capital post-COVID has only added to this momentum, with inflation encouraging a more aggressive investment mindset. Farah’s analysis becomes especially compelling when focused on the Middle East. Her understanding of the region is rooted in both her media background and her financial expertise. She pointed to the Etihad Rail project, a transformative initiative linking the UAE and Saudi Arabia. “Just like the Eurail system boosted regional connectivity in Europe, this project could redefine tourism, logistics, and cross-border trade in the Gulf.” Beyond the Gulf, she highlighted investment opportunities in Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan. These markets, backed by Gulf investment, are seeing major real estate development and logistics expansions. New port infrastructure across the Mediterranean could position them for substantial growth. “Greater regional integration can only bring stability and prosperity. Europe proved that with the evolution of the EU.” Farah was also asked about the UAE’s ability to remain stable amid the ongoing Palestine conflict. She acknowledged the country’s unique position, noting that the UAE has long been viewed as a safe haven thanks to its consistent political and economic management. “In times of uncertainty, the UAE becomes a magnet for investors seeking safety. That speaks volumes about its strategic strength.”  To date, the UAE has not faced direct consequences from the conflict, providing reassurance to smaller investors who are closely watching the region. Farah also discussed how global businesses have had to respond to shifting consumer sentiments, especially with pro-Palestine boycotts affecting major franchises in Muslim-majority countries like Egypt, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Brands such as McDonald’s attempted to reverse public backlash with donations to Palestinian causes, though the response has been mixed. “Companies can’t afford to be silent anymore. Transparency is no longer optional—it’s expected.” She recommended that brands not only clarify their stance but also diversify product lines and market strategies. Adidas, for instance, recovered strongly after parting ways with Kanye West during a wave of controversy. “Reputation can be rebuilt, but only with courage and consistency.” The interview turned philosophical when asked whether individuals could influence global events through their investment decisions. Farah believes they can. “If BlackRock decided not to invest in your stock, you’d feel it. And that same logic applies, even on a smaller scale, when consumers and retail investors make ethical choices.” She pointed to the growing—but recently slowed, movement of ESG investing. In 2023, ESG-focused ETFs reached $480 billion, although momentum has cooled since. Still, she believes the ethical investing trend has staying power. That said, she noted a sharp rise in defense stocks, with companies like BAE Systems gaining as much as 140% in the last three years. While war profiteering may concern many, there are signs of pushback. Barclays, for example, divested $3.4 million from Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense firm. While this didn’t crash the stock, it made a bold public statement. “The message matters—even when the market impact is minimal.” The Middle East’s strategic location makes it a vital artery for global trade. Any disruption in its shipping lanes, Farah warned, can trigger severe economic consequences. The recent Red Sea incident caused freight prices to spike, but the greater threat lies in potential strikes