December 7, 2025: College of Business invited Mr. John Bowman, the Chief Executive Officer of Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association, CAIA, to be part of CoB’s Executive Lecture Series.
The lecture titled “Introduction to Private Equity” was presented to the audience and College of Business students. It took place on Wednesday, 03/12/2025, in the Lecture Theatre (M) from 12:00 to 12:50 PM.
The lecture delivered by Mr. John provided an insightful overview of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) certification and its growing relevance in the investment landscape, particularly within Saudi Arabia’s expanding private equity sector. He highlighted global industry shifts and the increasing importance of alternatives, underscoring CAIA’s commitment to the Gulf region and discussed emerging trends in alternative asset management.
John elaborated on the mission of professional organizations such as CFA Institute, CAIA, and AICPA, emphasizing their role in elevating standards through education and thought leadership. He explained the emergence of CAIA as a response to the rise of hedge funds, private equity, and private debt.
The lecture also offered a comprehensive overview of private capital’s evolution, from venture capital to private equity and the significant expansion of private debt after the 2008 financial crisis. John highlighted that private assets now account for 20% of investable assets and 54% of industry revenue. He further described how companies are increasingly relying on private markets for financing, staying private longer, and creating substantial value before going public.
Finally, John emphasized the rise of private credit, the shift toward total portfolio approaches, and the increasing importance of soft skills in investment careers. He encouraged students to explore CAIA programs and thought-leadership resources to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
