Sukuk appeal set to spread

The most significant industry trend to date this year has been the resurgence of the Islamic bond (sukuk) market. After a brief setback in 2010, funds raised through global sukuk issues in 2011 stood at $44.7bn in September. But sukuk issuance is still dominated by sovereigns from Asian and Gulf markets and remains concentrated in certain sectors. Four industry experts look at what needs to be done to encourage participation from corporates and facilitate issuances in a wider range of currencies.