Wahed calls for reflection on the economic consequences of interest in society and a move towards a fairer financial system for all.

We’re proud to launch our latest campaign, Withdraw From Riba.

Interest is often considered a necessary tool for economic growth but it is estimated that global debt has now reached $315 trillion dollars. Servicing this debt cost the world approximately $13 trillion in 2022. 

Countries all over the world are experiencing huge pressure in servicing the needs of public infrastructure amidst rising costs of interest payments. Interest facilitates a wealth transfer from lower and middle-income households to the affluent and helps to explain why, in places like the UK, the Office of National Statistics reported that the wealthiest 10% of households hold 43% of all the wealth in the country, compared to the bottom 50% who hold only 9%. 

​This disparity is undoubtedly exacerbated by an interest-based financial system that allows inequality to fester. As debt levels rise, those with lower income are trapped in cycles of repayment, while those with assets continue to accumulate wealth—widening the gap between the "haves" and the "have-nots."

For many, the pressure of mounting debt leads to feelings of hopelessness and isolation. These emotional burdens are more than just individual struggles—they reflect an underlying issue created by the very nature of interest-based finance, which disproportionately affects those who are already vulnerable.

The relationship between debt and mental health is also well-documented. It has been reported that over 420,000 people in debt consider suicide in the UK alone. Over 100,000 actually attempt suicide.

We believe withdrawing from Riba is not only a religious obligation, it is a vote to make real change in the fabric of our society and a commitment to creating a sustainable economy that is more equitable and just.

Our campaign focuses on bringing these issues to light with the intention of signaling the shift for the need to move towards a more equitable financial system.

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Capital at Risk. As with any investment, a Wahed Invest Ltd investment puts your money at risk, as the value of your investment can go down as well as up. The tax treatment of your investment will depend on your individual circumstances and may change in the future. If you are unsure about whether investing is right for you, please seek expert financial advice.

Wahed Technologies Sdn Bhd ("Wahed") is a Digital Investment Manager (DIM) licensee issued by Securities Commission Malaysia (eCMSL/ A0359/2019). It is part of Wahed Inc. Wahed is authorized to conduct a fund management business that incorporates innovative technologies into automated portfolio management services offered to clients under a license issued pursuant to Schedule 2 of the Capital Markets Services Act 2007. All investments involve risks, including the possibility of losing the money you invest, and the track record does not guarantee future performance.

Wahed Invest Limited is regulated by ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (“FSRA”) as an Islamic Financial Business with Financial Services Permission for Shari’a Compliant Regulated Activities of Managing Assets and Arranging Custody [Financial Permission No. 220065]. Our ADGM Registered No. is 000004971. Wahed Invest Limited utilises Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank as its banking partner/custodian.

Intended for UK, Malaysia and UAE audiences only.