NYU Abu Dhabi Launches Institute for Global Finance Study

The Stern School of Business at New York University Abu Dhabi (Stern at NYUAD) announced the launch of the Institute for Global Financial Competitiveness. This new research initiative aims to study and rank International Financial Centers (IFCs) worldwide, using advanced data science techniques. The institute will provide valuable insights into the competitiveness, influence, and contribution of financial hubs globally.

Strategic Location in Abu Dhabi

The institute is strategically located at NYUAD in Abu Dhabi, close to regions driving the world’s future economic growth. The location offers access to diverse markets and economic dynamics, enabling researchers to study financial centers in a region critical to global trade and investment.

World-Class Team and Support

The institute brings together an international team of researchers and advisors. It is supported by Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, a renowned investor with decades of experience studying global economic trends. Dalio’s involvement reinforces the institute’s ambition to produce world-leading research on financial centers.

Focus on International Financial Centers

The Institute for Global Financial Competitiveness will focus on studying the evolving global economic order, with particular attention to IFCs. By leveraging data science, the institute will evaluate and rank financial centers, examining factors such as competitiveness, market impact, and contributions to global finance.

Statements from Leaders

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, welcomed the initiative, noting that it marks a pivotal moment in applying data science to assess the status of financial centers. Rob Salomon, Dean of Stern at NYUAD, highlighted that the institute aligns with Stern’s mission to research, teach, and engage in topics critical to global economic growth.

Inaugural Financial Centres Competitiveness Index

The institute will release its first Financial Centres Competitiveness Index during the Global Markets Summit at Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW), opening on 8th December 2025. This index will provide a unique ranking and insights into how IFCs perform globally, helping investors, policymakers, and institutions make informed decisions.

The establishment of the institute underscores NYU Abu Dhabi’s commitment to research and innovation in global finance. By combining data science with expert analysis, the institute aims to enhance understanding of financial centers and their role in shaping the world economy.