Mark Smyth, who specialized in business development and financial market analysis, has contributed to Failaka's development from the firm's inception in 1996.

Mr. Smyth began his financial career in 1992 with the Bank of Montreal's Harris Trust and Savings Bank in his native Chicago, gaining experience in retail and corporate lending and mortgage banking, as well as in operations management. Afterwards, he became a partner with The International Investor of Kuwait, managing one of the firm's direct investments in New York before becoming involved with the firm's regional acquisition strategy in Kuwait. In 2004, Mr. Smyth joined a leading commodities brokerage in Chicago, not only establishing himself as a trusted broker but also becoming a respected currency analyst whose market commentary is widely syndicated online and in print. From the beginning, Mark has contributed, on a part-time basis, to Failaka's growth and development.

Mr. Smyth holds a B.S. in Business Management and an M.B.A. in International Finance from DePaul University in Chicago. He also holds a NASD Series 3 license.