The Hawkamah Journal issue 01/2013 | Page 52

Dubai International Financial Centre Global Financial Hub Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the ?nancial and business hub connecting the region’s emerging markets with the markets of Asia, the Americas and Europe. Since its launch in 2004, DIFC, a purposely built ?nancial free zone, has been committed to encouraging economic growth and development in the region through its strong ?nancial and business infrastructure. Currently, DIFC's client base comprises over 900 active registered ?rms, including: 21 of the world’s top 25 banks, 8 of the world’s 10 largest insurers, 6 of the top 10 law ?rms, 11 of the top 20 money managers and 7 of the top 10 consultant companies in the world. Over 14,000 employees operate in an open environment complemented by international legal and regulatory standards. DIFC offers its member companies bene?ts such as 100 percent foreign ownership, zero percent tax rate, with no restriction on capital convertibility or pro?t repatriation. For more info visit www.difc.ae Follow us on twitter @difc published by hawkamah, the institute for corporate governance.