Pioneering Corporate Governance and ESG Integration Since 2005.
Capital Concept is a premier independent advisory firm specializing in Corporate Governance and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. Long before sustainability became a regulatory mandate, we were at the forefront of ESG research, advocacy, and institutional innovation. We are a tech-enabled firm that partners with global investors, lenders, and corporate enterprises to de-risk portfolios and transform complex compliance requirements into measurable financial value.
Through our proprietary digital platforms and deep roots in institutional governance, we provide the independent oversight, strategic clarity, and audit-ready frameworks that modern capital markets demand.
OUR PURPOSE
Triggering a Positive Inflection Point
From Compliance Burden to Competitive Advantage.
Since our founding, Capital Concept has operated with a singular, purpose-led focus: to trigger a permanent inflection point in corporate behavior. We believe that modern business requires an evolved operating model, one that rigorously prioritizes environmental and social impact alongside uncompromising financial success.
To achieve this, we deploy a collaborative, iterative problem-solving approach. We work directly alongside regulators, international organizations, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), and civil society to build inclusive frameworks that drive operational innovation. By adopting our rigorous ESG standards, companies do not merely comply; they insulate themselves against macroeconomic shocks and secure long-term, sustainable growth.
OUR ASPIRATIONS
Promoting the adoption of international ESG standards and best practices by corporations and investors, fostering principles of good governance, integrity, and accountability.
Facilitating the exchange of knowledge among corporations and investors regarding the advantages of sustainable investment practices, including enhanced risk-adjusted returns, positive social and environmental impacts, and stakeholder protection.
Encouraging the incorporation of ESG due diligence as an integral part of responsible investing, coupled with providing ESG reporting to investors.
Advocating for the understanding of risks and opportunities associated with impact investing, contributing to the creation of positive social and environmental impact.
Providing actionable recommendations to enhance corporations’ ESG practices, pushing beyond compliance requirements and fostering a culture of sustainability.
OUR JOURNEY
Building on years of corporate governance research and advocacy in collaboration with local and international organization like CIPE, OECD, Transparency International Lebanon, amongst others, led to the foundation of Capital Concept to provide guidance on corporate governance to companies and regulators.
Our Legacy & Leadership
Rooted in Advocacy, Defined by Execution.
We didn’t just adapt to the sustainability landscape; we wrote the rulebook for ESG in this region. Capital Concept’s foundation was built on decades of intensive governance research and institutional advocacy. Led by our founder, Yasser Akkaoui – a prominent voice in Middle Eastern corporate governance since 1997 – our firm has consistently set the standard for the market.
Our track record speaks for itself. In 2013, Capital Concept became the first corporate governance advisory firm to review and rate listed companies across the MENA region. We were instrumental in the creation of Hawkama, the Dubai-based institute of corporate governance, and in 2015, we launched Shareholder-Rights© – an initiative developed in collaboration with UN Lebanon, the IFC, and the EBRD to promote advanced ESG assessment methodologies and protect investor rights.
Today, our leadership continues to shape the international sustainability and investment agenda. Our executive team holds strategic advisory and board roles across pivotal global organizations, including:
.The United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) Lebanon Chapter
.The OECD Taskforce for MENA Stock Exchanges
.The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE)
.The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Private Equity Association
.Human Rights Watch (Chairing the Lebanon Advisory Committee from 2011 to 2022)
We draw on this unparalleled institutional legacy – bridging the gap between the boardroom, the classroom, and the capital markets – to help today’s leaders navigate the complexities of tomorrow.