Islamic finance is rooted in the application of ethical principles that are inspired by the Sharia yet remain within the context and realities of a global economy. The criteria described below provide an investment framework that, independently of its theological or dogmatic origin, carries a set of shared – if not universal - values.

• Ambiguity (Al Maissar) is forbidden: financial law prohibits activities founded on uncertainty or ambiguity. The Sharia therefore rejects transactions based on dishonesty or ignorance regarding the subject of a contract (e.g. ambiguity about materials or price of materials).
• For example:traditional insurance contracts are forbidden because the value of the contract at maturity cannot be known.

The principles of Islamic investment and banking actually serve to stimulate innovation across all asset classes and structured products whilst creating a positive culture of investment and proactive partnership.