إيهاب رشاد: أسرار النجاح بين الاستثمار والعمل الخيري | بودكاست ملهم 🎙️

Introduction to the Podcast

Personal Background and Context

• The speaker shares a personal story about witnessing poverty, highlighting the emotional impact of seeing people without basic necessities.

• This is the first episode featuring a guest on the podcast, emphasizing its significance.

Guest Introduction

• The guest is introduced as a prominent figure in financial investments in Bahrain, holding a high-ranking position in one of the largest investment firms in the region.

• The guest, Mr. Ihab Rashad, has successfully combined professional success with charitable work through his foundation active for over 21 years.

Mr. Ihab Rashad's Journey

Educational Background

• Mr. Rashad introduces himself and expresses gratitude for being the first guest on this podcast.

• He studied law at Alexandria University and graduated in 1995; an event during his studies sparked his interest in stock trading.

Early Career and Investment Interest

• His curiosity about stocks began when he learned about share subscriptions from newspapers at home, leading him to explore investments during summer breaks.

• Initially aiming to become a lawyer, he shifted paths after receiving an opportunity to work at a securities company while waiting for his appointment as a prosecutor.

Professional Development

Career Progression

• Mr. Rashad started from entry-level positions within the company and gradually moved up to significant roles due to hands-on experience.

• He emphasizes that understanding all aspects of his job was crucial for career advancement; he worked across various departments including customer service and operations.

Importance of Continuous Learning

• Mr. Rashad stresses the importance of learning every aspect of one's job rather than limiting oneself to specific tasks or roles.

• He advocates for continuous education and helping others as key components for personal growth and career success.

Advice for Aspiring Professionals

Embracing Opportunities

• He advises young professionals not to shy away from tasks outside their defined roles; doing so can lead to greater knowledge and versatility within their careers.

Real-Life Application

• Sharing an anecdote where he had to step into multiple roles during staffing shortages illustrates how being well-rounded can help maintain workflow efficiency.

Understanding the Role of a Manager

Importance of Managerial Knowledge

• A manager must have a comprehensive understanding of their team's work; greater knowledge leads to more effective management.

• When managers are well-informed, it prevents subordinates from questioning their decisions or business alignment.

Career Progression and Opportunities

• The speaker began working in 1995 and progressed until 2005 when approached by a company in the UAE for an opportunity.

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of networking and helping others, which led to this job offer.

Transition to UAE

• In 2005, it was challenging to find jobs in the Gulf without existing contracts; however, the speaker was sought after by companies there.

• Initially hired as an Operations Manager, overseeing all operations within the company.

Professional Development

• The speaker participated in required examinations for regulatory approvals despite not being mandated to do so as an Operations Manager.

• Attended courses with colleagues to gain insights into financial markets and regulations.

Career Growth and Challenges

Leaving Alexandria

• The speaker recalls resigning from their previous position, expressing a desire for growth and knowledge acquisition.

• Despite leaving in 2005, they maintained connections with their former company until 2011.

Return to Egypt

• After returning from Dubai, the speaker received offers from Saudi Arabia but prioritized commitments made previously.

• They were informed that only two candidates succeeded in exams for positions at another firm due to high competition.

Success Story in Online Trading

Establishing Market Presence

• Joined a pioneering online trading firm that quickly became number one in Dubai's market within months due to high demand.

Innovations and Developments

• The firm introduced mobile applications for trading, enhancing accessibility and customer engagement significantly.

Leadership Role Post-Revolution

New Position After Political Changes

• Following Egypt's revolution in August 2011, the speaker was appointed as Managing Director of a brokerage firm ranked low among competitors.

Strategic Vision

Company Growth and Development Journey

Initial Goals and Achievements

• The speaker aimed to elevate the company from a lower position to being among the top 10 in Egypt over five years, attributing success to support from the board, employees, and particularly Engineer Mohamed Al-Ballaa.

• The company achieved significant growth, moving from initial rankings of 80 down to 50, eventually becoming one of the largest companies in Egypt.

Company History and Expansion

• The National Group for Technology was established in 1984, leading to various subsidiaries including financial services starting in 1999 with a partnership with Bank Misr.

• Initially focused on software for stock price displays, the company expanded into asset management by 2013 and launched Direct Capital Holdings for financial investments in 2018.

Strategic Acquisitions

• In 2019, despite a challenging market environment, the company successfully acquired a significant stake (77%) valued at approximately AED 240 million.

• This acquisition marked substantial growth from an initial capital of AED 3 million when founded in 2005.

Global Presence and Operations

• The speaker transitioned back to Bahrain as CEO after previously leaving in 2011; they noted that their operations now span multiple countries including Dubai and Bahrain.

• New ventures like Global Trading Network were established under Dubai's International Financial Centre (DIFC), focusing on B2B services with major investors like SoftBank involved.

Investment Strategies and Clientele

• Direct Bahrain operates as an investment firm licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain, engaging in trading across over 91 markets globally.

• They cater to both individual investors starting from $100 and institutional clients requiring higher minimum investments for asset management services.

Personal Background Insights

• The speaker reflects on their unique childhood experience as they were born after ten years of marriage between their parents during a time when such circumstances were uncommon.

What Influences Family Bonds and Charity Initiatives?

Early Family Connections

• The speaker reflects on their childhood, emphasizing a strong familial bond, particularly with their sister who was born six years after them. This connection fostered a beautiful family environment.

• Frequent gatherings with extended family members were common, including trips and vacations together, creating lasting memories captured in photographs from their early years.

The Impact of Loss

• The speaker discusses the profound love and affection received from all family members, which instilled a desire to do good from an early age.

• A significant turning point occurred when the speaker lost their mother unexpectedly in 2000. This event deeply affected them due to their close relationship with her.

Establishing a Charitable Organization

• In the aftermath of their mother's passing, the idea arose to honor her memory through charitable work. They decided to establish a charity as a form of ongoing goodwill (صدقة جارية).

• Despite initial challenges in obtaining approval for the charity, they successfully registered it within two months in 2003 and began its activities step by step.

Responsibilities in Charity Work

• The speaker compares working in charity to regular professions like stock trading, noting that while both involve financial management, charity entails greater responsibility regarding funds entrusted by donors.

• They emphasize the importance of understanding how charitable funds are allocated and ensuring they reach those truly in need.

Learning Through Experience

• Initially working as a researcher for the charity allowed them to understand how cases are assessed for aid—either through direct outreach or applications submitted by individuals seeking help.

• The process involves verifying claims made by applicants through personal visits and assessments before distributing aid.

Balancing Professional Life with Charity Work

• The speaker describes managing time between their job in finance during specific hours and dedicating afternoons/evenings to charitable work.

• They highlight that both roles involve financial growth but differ significantly; one focuses on worldly gains while the other aims at spiritual rewards through helping others.

Perspective on Wealth

• Money is viewed not merely as personal wealth but rather as resources meant for various purposes—food purchases or clothing—which ultimately do not belong solely to an individual.

• True ownership lies in what one gives away charitably; this perspective encourages prioritizing contributions over material possessions.

Reflection on Societal Attitudes

• There’s criticism towards societal tendencies where individuals boast about material wealth instead of focusing on spiritual richness derived from charitable acts.

Observations in a Neighborhood

Encountering Individuals in Need

• The speaker describes finding a woman sitting on the sidewalk in poor condition, indicating a need for assistance.

• The speaker questions the woman's living situation and offers to check her home for essential items like a refrigerator and washing machine, which are crucial for evaluating her needs.

• The woman lives in a poorly maintained area, facing harsh winter conditions without adequate shelter.

Challenges Faced by Families

• The woman has lost her husband and is struggling to care for her young children while living in difficult circumstances.

• After an initial visit, the speaker learns that no one followed up on the woman's application for aid, highlighting systemic issues in support services.

Growth of Community Support Initiatives

• The organization started small with basic aid but gradually expanded its activities to include Quran memorization classes and orphan sponsorship.

• They also began addressing issues related to prisoners needing financial assistance and healthcare challenges within the community.

Daily Food Distribution Efforts

• Over time, their food distribution program grew from 100 meals per month to over 4,000 meals monthly, demonstrating significant progress.

• Collaborations with local organizations have enhanced their ability to provide clean water access and alleviate health risks associated with contaminated water sources.

Funding Sources and Transparency

• Funding comes from donations made by board members and community supporters who trust the organization's transparency and accountability.

The Importance of Charitable Contributions and Sustainable Projects

Overview of Charitable Distribution

• All donations are fully distributed to the intended causes, ensuring 100% allocation without any personal gain from the charity.

• The charity's recent project involved building a mosque in a region called Atku, funded entirely by donations, showcasing community support during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Challenges Faced During COVID-19

• The pandemic severely impacted funding for charities, with many large organizations struggling to maintain operations and meet healthcare needs.

• Concerns arose about the responsibility of managing hospitals and ensuring adequate supplies and staffing amidst financial constraints.

Concept of Endowment (وقف خيري)

• To address sustainability, the idea emerged to create an endowment project that would fund ongoing charitable activities, including hospital operations.

• A plan was developed to acquire land for palm cultivation; proceeds from date sales would finance charity initiatives, creating a cycle of continuous support.

Historical Inspiration and Benefits of Palm Cultivation

• The initiative draws inspiration from historical figures like Uthman ibn Affan, whose charitable acts continue to yield benefits centuries later.

• Each palm tree can produce multiple offshoots over time; thus, a single donation could exponentially increase future contributions through sustainable agriculture.

Long-term Vision for Charity Growth

• Donors are encouraged to view their contributions as investments in long-term rewards rather than immediate returns; even small monthly payments can lead to significant outcomes over time.

• Emphasis is placed on patience and faith in the process; while immediate results may not be visible, sustained efforts will yield fruitful results in due course.

Diversifying Support Strategies

• The organization aims to balance immediate aid with long-term projects that empower individuals economically through job creation and skill development.

Exploring Community-Based Initiatives in Alexandria

The Concept of Raising Chickens

• Discussion on the varying skills individuals possess, highlighting that not everyone is adept at raising chickens. Each person's strengths dictate their contributions to community projects.

• Mention of a project initiated during COVID-19, where a Facebook page was created to market products from local farmers, showcasing adaptability in challenging times.

Development of the Brand "Bista"

• Overview of how "Bista" evolved over the years, starting with dairy products and expanding through social media marketing efforts.

• Initial challenges faced in attracting customers were addressed by leveraging free sandwich promotions from local shops to create awareness about their offerings.

Growth Through Word-of-Mouth and Social Media

• The importance of word-of-mouth referrals as satisfied customers began sharing their experiences with friends and family, leading to increased demand for products.

• Acknowledgment of initial struggles in sourcing customers but eventually establishing a fresh supply chain that ensured quality products.

Quality Control and Community Engagement

• Emphasis on maintaining high standards by personally vetting the quality of goods produced by women involved in the initiative.

• Description of how the organization has developed into a comprehensive system that supports various community members while ensuring product quality.

Expanding Offerings and Services

• Introduction of diverse food options such as catering services for events, allowing women to utilize their cooking skills while generating income.

• Explanation of how orders are managed efficiently to ensure freshness and quality, with an emphasis on providing affordable home-cooked meals.

Broader Impact Beyond Alexandria

• Discussion on extending activities beyond Alexandria, including establishing kindergartens in underserved areas like Minya to promote education.

• Insight into building mosques in deprived regions, ensuring they serve communities effectively rather than duplicating existing facilities.

Commitment to Community Service

Community Support and Success Stories

Mosque Capacity and Community Needs

• The speaker discusses the capacity of a mosque, indicating that if it does not accommodate people outside, it likely serves the local area adequately.

• There is a mention of potential projects like establishing a clinic or hospital instead of building another mosque, emphasizing the need for diverse community services.

Contributions During COVID-19

• The organization contributed significantly to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic by donating equipment and providing maintenance for medical devices.

• They aimed to support government efforts in healthcare, highlighting their role in addressing equipment shortages during critical times.

Success Stories from Beneficiaries

• A notable success story involves a woman who transitioned from cleaning vegetables to becoming a successful seamstress after receiving a sewing machine from the organization.

• This individual expanded her business by renting a shop and employing others, showcasing how targeted support can transform lives.

Empowerment Through Financial Assistance

• The organization provides interest-free loans (قرد حسن), enabling beneficiaries to invest in their businesses and improve their financial situations.

• Seasonal initiatives include providing clothing for children during holidays, demonstrating ongoing support beyond just financial aid.

Transparency and Trust in Charitable Organizations

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of transparency in charitable organizations, suggesting that donors should be aware of where their contributions are allocated.

• They advocate for public access to financial reports on charity spending to ensure accountability and build trust among donors.

Importance of Local Projects

• Discussion about local projects highlights how community-focused initiatives can effectively address specific needs within neighborhoods.

Project Overview: Establishing a Date Palm Oasis

Introduction to the Project

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of establishing a clear brand name for their project, "Oasis of Palms," located in the New Valley region, specifically in Sahl Krowin.

• The project has received approval from the governor of the New Valley and has been operational for some time.

Initial Steps Taken

• Key initial steps include soil analysis confirming suitability for various plants, particularly date palms which are central to the project.

• Engineering drawings have been completed for land development, and approximately 8 kilometers of access roads have been constructed to facilitate operations.

Water Resource Management

• Plans are underway to drill a deep well (700-750 meters), with current salinity levels at 260 parts per million indicating good water quality.

• A reservoir will be built to collect hot mineral water before it is used for irrigation, addressing high iron content that could affect plant nourishment.

Energy Solutions and Sustainability

• The project aims to utilize solar energy due to lack of electrical infrastructure; plans include installing solar panels and generators.

• Collaboration with the Egyptian Society for Organic Agriculture is established to ensure organic farming practices and obtain carbon credits.

Financial Aspects and Fundraising Efforts

• An estimated budget of 20 million EGP is required for initial phases; fundraising efforts are ongoing with about 5 million EGP already secured.

• Donations can be made through Bank Misr using specific account details provided by the speaker.

Community Engagement and Donation Options

• Individuals can sponsor date palms at a cost of 6,500 EGP each; unique identification tags will be issued for tracking donations.

• Various donation options exist beyond palm sponsorship, including contributions towards well drilling or other project needs starting from as low as 100 EGP.

Support from Institutions

• Significant support has come from the Egyptian Stock Exchange, which donated half an acre through its sustainable development initiative.

• Employees from the stock exchange also contributed personally, showcasing community involvement in supporting agricultural projects.

Legal Compliance and Tax Benefits

• The speaker confirms compliance with legal requirements for fundraising under Ministry regulations; tax registration allows companies donating to benefit financially through expense deductions.

Aspirations for Project Sustainability

Vision for the Project

• The speaker expresses a strong desire to see their project thrive while they are still alive, emphasizing the importance of enjoying and profiting from its outcomes.

• They mention a goal of cultivating 100,000 acres, which would significantly impact their activities and financial sustainability.

• The speaker highlights the unpredictability of relying on donations, referencing challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Financial Stability

• Emphasizes that having a stable income allows for more freedom in managing projects and responding to unexpected financial needs.

• Discusses potential emergencies that could arise, such as health issues requiring immediate funds.

Understanding Zakat and Charity

Definitions and Distinctions

• The speaker clarifies the difference between Zakat (obligatory almsgiving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity), explaining specific categories for each.

• Defines "poor" as someone lacking basic daily necessities, while "needy" refers to those who can barely meet their obligations despite having some income.

Allocation of Funds

• Discusses how Zakat should be allocated according to Quranic guidelines, ensuring it reaches those in need rather than being misapplied.

Misconceptions about Charitable Contributions

Clarifying Misunderstandings

• Addresses common misconceptions regarding where charitable contributions should be directed; emphasizes that certain projects may not qualify under Zakat but can still be funded through Sadaqah.

Specific Examples

• Provides examples of acceptable uses for Sadaqah, such as purchasing wheelchairs or building mosques.

Accountability in Fund Management

Responsibility in Handling Donations

• The speaker stresses personal accountability when managing funds received by their organization, highlighting the ethical obligation to ensure proper allocation.

Transparency with Donors

• Emphasizes the importance of transparency with donors regarding how their contributions are utilized within various projects.

Investment Opportunities

Exploring Investment Options

• Discusses investment strategies for individuals looking to grow their wealth responsibly while contributing positively to society.

Stock Market Insights

• Introduces various investment avenues available within stock markets, including mutual funds managed by professionals starting from small amounts like 10 EGP.

Navigating Investment Choices

Types of Investments Available

• Outlines different types of investments available: high-risk stocks versus safer fixed-income instruments like treasury bonds.

Asset Management Companies

• Mentions asset management companies that require larger capital investments but offer professional management services tailored to individual risk preferences.

Practical Steps for Investors

Engaging with Financial Institutions

• Advises potential investors on how to approach brokerage firms instead of directly engaging with stock exchanges.

Choosing the Right Brokerage Firm

Understanding Stock Market Participation

The Basics of Trading and Investment

• Individuals can now trade stocks online using mobile devices or laptops, eliminating the need for a broker to complete transactions.

• Investors should read financial statements and reports to make informed investment decisions; understanding company budgets is crucial even for non-accountants.

• There is a significant difference between educated investors who analyze market trends and those who impulsively buy and sell without knowledge.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term Investing

• Long-term investors purchase stocks with confidence in their potential growth, often holding onto them for years rather than engaging in frequent trading.

• Market dynamics are influenced by news—positive news can drive stock prices up while negative news can lead to increased selling pressure.

The Role of Experience in Trading

• Successful trading requires experience; it takes time to learn when to buy or sell based on market conditions and personal research.

• Continuous learning is essential; dedicating time daily to stay updated on market developments enhances an investor's ability to navigate changes effectively.

Global Events Impacting Local Markets

• Global events, such as U.S. elections or geopolitical issues, significantly affect local stock markets; historical context helps predict potential outcomes.

• Economic factors like inflation rates and interest rate changes also influence stock performance, making it vital for investors to remain aware of these variables.

Investment Strategies for Different Risk Profiles

• Investors must understand their risk tolerance; those uncomfortable with direct investments may prefer mutual funds or asset management companies.

• Real estate can be a safer investment option for individuals seeking stable income without the volatility associated with stocks.

Tailoring Investments Based on Personal Circumstances

• For individuals inheriting money but lacking investment knowledge, real estate offers a tangible asset that appreciates over time while providing rental income.

Investment Strategies and Financial Goals

Understanding Investment Options

• Individuals can choose between various investment avenues such as banks or gold, depending on their personal beliefs and financial goals.

• Monthly income can be generated through investments in real estate or investment funds that distribute profits regularly.

• The returns from stocks can vary; dividends may be distributed annually or semi-annually based on company decisions.

Dividend Distribution Mechanisms

• Companies may decide to retain earnings for expansion rather than distributing them as dividends, impacting shareholder returns.

• Some companies consistently distribute dividends, while others may not; investors should research historical dividend payments before investing.

Characteristics of Reliable Investments

• Certain industries, like milling companies, are known for consistent dividend payouts due to their stable business models.

• This discussion is not an investment recommendation but aims to clarify how individuals can approach stock market investments.

Charitable Collaborations and Community Support

Cooperative Efforts Among Charities

• Collaboration between charities is essential for success; examples include partnerships with organizations needing funding for specific projects.

• The speaker discusses a collaboration with the Egyptian Food Bank to provide families with food choices tailored to their needs.

Health Services Initiatives

• Partnerships with health organizations allow charities to offer free medical services to eligible individuals in need of assistance.

Diverse Charity Activities

• The charity engages in various activities including educational support, marriage assistance for orphans, and providing clothing during festive seasons.

Tailored Assistance Programs

Career Guidance and Learning in Finance

Importance of Education and Courses

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of studying well and taking relevant courses, especially for high school students aiming to pursue a career in medicine or finance.

• Various types of courses are available, including risk management, money laundering, portfolio management, and global markets. Specialized certifications like CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) are also highlighted.

Skills Development

• Graduates from commerce backgrounds can easily grasp numerical data and should consider specialized training such as CFA to enhance their analytical skills.

• Passion for the field is crucial; individuals should not enter a profession solely for financial gain but rather seek diverse experiences within their chosen industry.

Continuous Learning and Adaptability

• The speaker shares personal experiences about learning new concepts like derivatives and forex trading by seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues.

• Acknowledging mistakes is essential for growth; successful individuals often learn from numerous errors throughout their careers.

Responsibility in Professional Roles

• Taking responsibility for one's actions is vital. The speaker recounts an experience where they had to bear the consequences of a mistake made while working as a broker.

• Admitting errors promptly allows for correction and fosters accountability within professional environments.

Evolution of Trading Practices

• The transition from traditional paper-based trading to online platforms has significantly changed how trades are executed. The speaker reflects on this evolution during their time as a broker.

• They describe the chaotic environment of early trading floors filled with brokers managing multiple calls simultaneously, highlighting the intense pressure involved in executing trades efficiently.

Final Thoughts on Motivation

Reflections on Life and Purpose After COVID-19

Personal Experience with COVID-19

• The speaker shares their main target in life, particularly after experiencing the challenges of a COVID-19 infection. They emphasize the importance of waking up each day with purpose.

• They recount their struggle during the illness, mentioning that they were reluctant to be hospitalized and preferred to recover at home despite severe symptoms.

Motivation and Drive

• The experience of battling COVID-19 served as an indicator for the speaker that life is precious. They express a desire to leave a legacy by contributing positively before passing away.

• The speaker discusses a significant project involving substantial financial investment (around 80 to 100 million), highlighting its scale compared to previous endeavors like building mosques.

Commitment to Community Service

• Emphasizing the need for action, they state that they want to accomplish something meaningful before leaving this world, which drives them daily.

• The speaker expresses urgency in completing their work, specifically planting 12,000 palm trees and ensuring they yield fruit over time.

Philanthropy as a Source of Strength

• They reflect on how charitable work has been foundational for their success and energy levels. Their commitment allows them to work long hours driven by passion.

• Sharing personal anecdotes about visiting impoverished homes motivates them further; they describe efforts made to improve living conditions for those in need.

Challenges and Resilience

• The speaker highlights moments when they felt anxious about not being able to help others facing difficulties or crises. This concern keeps them awake at night.