South Korean firm unveils quantum project with Al Fardan

South Korean quantum computing firm NORMA (whose investors include Vertex Ventures) has signed an MOU with Qatari Al Fardan Ventures to build a R&D center in the UAE specializing in quantum. The UAE has shown an interest in developing quantum computing in the region. NORMA has previously worked with Saudi Arabia signing an $18m export contract in December 2024 with Saudi IT firm Light Vision IT (based in Al Jubail Industrial City) to supply quantum computers. One of NORMA's focuses is quantum resistant encryption.

Qatar Said to be Buying New York's Plaza Hotel for $600m

The Plaza Hotel on Fifth Avenue (Central Park South) in midtown Manhattan, which opened its doors in 1907, is currently 75% owned by Sahara India with the remainder owned by Kingdom Holdings.
It is down the road from the Ritz-Carlton Central Park.

Qatar's Katara Hospitality is said to be buying full ownership, would add an iconic American hotel to its collection. Katara's investments include 50% holding in The Savoy and an investment in The Connaught in London.

Qatar mulls Morgan Stanley's Commodities Business

Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani (Prime Minister since April 2007) is contemplating a potential stake in Morgan Stanley's Commodities Business, which could benefit both parties in terms of information sharing.The business is run by Colin Bryce (who started his career at the British National Oil Corporation, bought by BP in 1988) and Simon Greenshields (who has specialized in gas and power).

Qatar Holding LLC is an investment arm of the QIA, which has an interest in investing in commodities (which owned 12% of Xstrata, run by CEO Mick Davis, as of end August 2012). Mick honed his financial and board-leading skills as CFO of Billiton PLC.