Halal investing refers to investing in a way that complies with Islamic (Shariah) law. It focuses on ethical, socially responsible financial activities and avoids income from prohibited (haram) sources.
Key principles of halal investing include:
Prohibition of interest (riba): Investments must not involve earning or paying interest, so conventional bonds and interest-based loans are excluded.
Avoidance of haram industries: Companies involved in alcohol, gambling, pork, tobacco, adult entertainment, weapons, or conventional financial services are not allowed.
Risk-sharing, not speculation: Excessive uncertainty (gharar) and gambling-like speculation (maysir) are prohibited.
Asset-backed investing: Investments should be linked to real economic activity, such as businesses, assets, or trade.
Ethical conduct: Businesses should operate fairly, transparently, and responsibly.
Common halal investment options include Shariah-compliant stocks, Islamic mutual funds and ETFs, Sukuk (Islamic bonds), real estate, and profit-sharing ventures like Musharakah and Mudarabah.
Overall, halal investing aims to grow wealth while aligning financial decisions with Islamic ethical and moral values.