Orkan Arat, a Turkish-born investor and philanthropist, has built a reputation as a visionary in the world of finance, particularly in emerging markets. Born and raised in Istanbul, Orkan’s early life was shaped by a commitment to education and hard work, leading him to excel academically in mathematics and economics at Boğaziçi University. After starting his career at a leading investment bank in Istanbul, Orkan was quickly promoted for his keen ability to identify undervalued assets. His success eventually led him to London, where he implemented his investment strategies on a global platform. Today, Orkan Arat is recognized for his disciplined, long-term investment approach and his philanthropic efforts through the Arat Foundation. In this interview, Orkan Arat shares insights into his career, investment philosophy, and commitment to making a positive impact.
What inspired you to focus on emerging markets, particularly in the MENA region?
Emerging markets, especially in the MENA region, present unique opportunities that are often overlooked by mainstream investors. My upbringing in Turkey gave me a deep understanding of these markets, and I’ve always been drawn to the idea of uncovering hidden value where others might see risk. The MENA region has immense potential for growth, and I see it as a chance not only to generate returns but also to contribute to the economic development of the area. It’s about creating long-term value for both investors and local communities.
How would you describe your investment philosophy, and how has it evolved over time?
My investment philosophy is rooted in fundamental analysis, contrarian thinking, and a long-term outlook. I believe in thoroughly understanding the intrinsic value of a company before making any investment decisions. This approach requires patience and discipline—two qualities that have been essential in my career. Over the years, I’ve refined this philosophy, particularly by focusing on emerging markets, where I believe there are still many undervalued opportunities. I’ve found that holding onto investments for years, or even decades, allows the true value of an asset to be realized over time.
Can you share a memorable investment experience that shaped your career?
One of the most memorable experiences was early in my career when I identified an undervalued company in the Turkish market. Many investors were avoiding the region due to perceived risks, but I saw an opportunity for long-term growth. After thorough research, I made the investment, and over the years, the company grew substantially. That experience reinforced the importance of patience and sticking to my investment philosophy, even when the market sentiment might be negative.
How do you balance your responsibilities as an investor with your philanthropic efforts through the Arat Foundation?
Balancing my responsibilities as an investor with my philanthropic work is something I am deeply passionate about. The Arat Foundation allows me to give back in a meaningful way by supporting education and entrepreneurship in Turkey and the MENA region. I believe that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty, so much of our work focuses on providing scholarships, building schools, and funding vocational training programs. For me, it’s not just about making financial contributions; it’s about creating lasting change by giving individuals the tools they need to succeed.
What are some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in your investment career, and how did you overcome them?
The most significant challenges have often come during periods of market volatility, particularly in emerging markets where political or economic instability can create uncertainty. However, I’ve learned that staying calm and sticking to my long-term strategy is essential during these times. I focus on fundamental analysis and avoid being swayed by short-term market movements. Having the discipline to remain patient and confident in my investment choices has helped me navigate these challenges successfully.
How has your upbringing in Istanbul influenced your career and philanthropic values?
Growing up in Istanbul, I was surrounded by a rich culture and strong family values, particularly around education and hard work. My parents instilled in me a love for learning, which laid the foundation for my career in finance. At the same time, seeing the disparities in opportunity across different communities sparked my interest in philanthropy. This background influenced my decision to focus on education and entrepreneurship in my philanthropic work, as I believe these are the areas that can have the most significant impact on individuals and society as a whole.
What advice would you give to aspiring investors who are interested in focusing on emerging markets?
My advice would be to remain patient and think long-term. Emerging markets can be volatile, and it’s easy to get discouraged by short-term fluctuations. However, these markets also offer incredible opportunities for those who are willing to do their homework and look beyond the surface. I would also recommend a deep understanding of the local culture and economy, as this knowledge can provide valuable insights that are often overlooked by other investors.
What do you see as the future of global finance, particularly in relation to emerging markets?
I believe that emerging markets will play a significant role in the future of global finance. As these regions continue to develop, they will become increasingly important players on the world stage. I’m particularly excited about the potential for innovation in these markets, especially in areas like technology and sustainable energy. For investors, this means there will be new opportunities, but also new challenges. It will be essential to stay informed, adaptable, and open to new ways of thinking.
Can you tell us more about the work you do through the Arat Foundation and its impact?
The Arat Foundation focuses on providing educational opportunities and supporting entrepreneurship, particularly for underprivileged youth in Turkey and the MENA region. We’ve funded scholarships, built schools, and supported vocational training programs that help young people gain the skills they need to succeed. Our goal is to empower individuals and communities to break free from the cycle of poverty and reach their full potential. The impact has been incredibly rewarding—seeing young people take control of their futures and make positive changes in their communities is what drives me to continue this work.
What motivates you to keep pushing forward, both in your investment career and your philanthropic efforts?
What motivates me is the desire to make a positive impact—whether it’s through uncovering value in overlooked markets or helping someone achieve their dreams through education. I’ve been fortunate to have success in my career, and I believe it’s my responsibility to give back in whatever way I can. The opportunity to inspire and support others is incredibly fulfilling, and it’s what keeps me pushing forward every day.
Final Thoughts
Thank you, Orkan Arat, for sharing your journey and insights with us. Your dedication to both global finance and philanthropy is truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing how you continue to lead with innovation and make a lasting impact on the world through your work.
