In the five years since its inception, Istithmar World has built a portfolio of investments in markets ranging from North America and Europe to Asia and the Middle East, and across a variety of sectors, including consumer, industrial, financial services and real estate.

As a subsidiary of Dubai World, the company has been mentioned in numerous press reports related to the high debt levels of its parent.

The Board of Istithmar[1] is led by the Chairman, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

[3] On 20 January 2010, the CEO of Istithmar World Capital, David Jackson announced that he would be leaving the firm.

In July 2012, the board of Istithmar was reshuffled by chairman Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, before being entirely replaced a few hours later, on the instructions of Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, by the board of Dubai World.

[5] On 26 November 2009, the Wall Street Journal reported that Dubai World was seeking to sign a 6-month debt standstill agreement with its creditors.