Mohamed AlTajer, FCIM

The wealth management landscape in the UAE is evolving, with opportunities to learn from global markets like the UK and China. Here are four key trends shaping the future: 1) Digital Transformation: AI-driven platforms and robo-advisors are revolutionizing client engagement. The UAE is catching up, but there’s room for growth in personalized digital offerings. 2) Sustainable Investing: ESG is becoming mainstream globally. The UAE’s Vision 2030 positions it to lead in responsible investing. Cross-Border Wealth Management: With its strategic location, the UAE is a natural hub for managing international wealth. It’s time to capitalize on this advantage. Personalized Planning: Clients now demand holistic financial plans. UAE wealth managers can excel by offering tailored strategies that address unique financial goals. Excited to see how these insights shape the future of wealth management in the UAE. #WealthManagement #UAE #DigitalTransformation #ESG #GlobalTrends

١١

٢ تعليق

Tech Investment Trends in the Middle East: A Standout in 2023 In a year marked by a global downturn in tech FDI, the Middle East shines as the sole region to witness growth in this sector between 2022 and 2023. With 400 tech FDI projects last year—up from 384 the year before—the region's resilience stands out amidst a global 40% decline. Governments in the Gulf, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar, have played pivotal roles in this growth by offering attractive incentives like favorable regulations, tax benefits, and significant investments in VC funds. These measures align with broader economic diversification strategies aimed at reducing reliance on oil. 🌐 Geopolitical Implications This surge in tech investments carries geopolitical significance, particularly concerning the US. The rising tech prowess in the Gulf, especially in AI, has sparked concerns in Washington about the potential transfer of sensitive technologies to China. This underscores the intricate interplay between geopolitics and tech FDI. Looking to the Future Industry experts foresee a promising trajectory, anticipating even larger tech investments in the Middle East. As regional countries strengthen their tech infrastructure and strategies, they not only present new business prospects but also position themselves as key players in the global tech arena. #TechInvestment #MiddleEast #EconomicDiversification #Geopolitics #AI

٦

In Arthur D. Little’s latest report, Dr. Mohammad Nikkar & Arjun Vir Singh outline the potential and challenges for KSA to become a leading fintech hub https://lnkd.in/ePSZW3zi #financialservices #fintechhub #SaudiArabia

٢

💡💡An interesting read from The Economist about how political realities are shaping #trade between the #MiddleEast, #Asia and the US 🚢🌏 Commercial ties between the Gulf and Asia are deepening https://lnkd.in/dT84p5C9

٩

Charting Saudi Arabia’s Rise as a Global Hub for SMEs Saudi Arabia is emerging as a global leader in fostering small and medium enterprises (SMEs), driven by its strategic vision to diversify the economy and empower innovation. The Kingdom's ambitious initiatives are yielding significant results, positioning it as a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem and a magnet for international investors and startups. Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia ranked third globally in the 2023-2024 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report, with its National Entrepreneurship Context Index score rising from 5.0 in 2019 to 6.3 in 2023. This progress reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to creating a supportive business environment. Key drivers of this transformation include: - Vision 2030 and the National Investment Strategy (NIS): These initiatives aim to increase the private sector's GDP contribution to 65% and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to 5.7% by 2030. - Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Competitive regulations and incentives, exemplified by King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), are attracting investments in priority sectors. - Innovative Financing Solutions: These are boosting private sector growth and promoting capital formation. Saudi Arabia’s youthful population, with 63% under the age of 30, adds to its advantage. It is a diverse talent pool that nurtures global changemakers and entrepreneurs. Monsha'at: Pioneering Entrepreneurship Monsha’at, the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority, plays a pivotal role in driving SME growth. Highlights include: - Launching incubators and accelerators to support startups at every stage. - Building international relationships through participation in events like Franchise Expo Paris, Web Summit 2023, and ComeUp Korea 2023. - Strengthening diplomatic and business ties with countries like France, South Korea, and Portugal. Monsha’at has also made remarkable strides in franchising, with over 380 national franchises and more than 1,000 registered trademarks. A Framework for Global Success By collaborating with private and government sectors, Monsha’at offers essential services, including financial support, consultation, and access to industry networks. These efforts not only enhance SME productivity but also contribute to sustainable economic growth. Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a global hub for SMEs is a testament to the power of strategic vision and innovation. With initiatives like Vision 2030 and the unwavering support of entities like Monsha’at, the Kingdom is charting a promising path for entrepreneurs worldwide. #Startups #Entrepreneurship #SaudiArabia #Vision2030 #SMEs #Innovation https://lnkd.in/dfjbQKEZ

٣

Economic Prosperity: The UAE's Upward Trajectory in Real GDP Growth, according to the World Bank's revised forecasts present new opportunities for growth and investment in the #UAE and #MENA region. As we move deeper into the decade, the UAE's economic landscape continues to demonstrate resilience and dynamic growth, outpacing many global counterparts. Recently, the World Bank adjusted its growth projections for the UAE, increasing the expected real GDP growth to 3.9% for 2024 and an optimistic 4.1% for 2025. This revision from earlier estimates of 3.7% and 3.8%, respectively, underscores a growing confidence in the UAE's economic strategy and its execution. The significance of this upward adjustment cannot be overstated. It reflects not only the success of the UAE’s diversified economic policies but also the robustness of its fiscal positioning. The country's current account surplus is projected to rise to 8.4% in 2024 and slightly adjust to 8.3% in 2025, reinforcing the UAE's strong external position. Moreover, a forecasted fiscal surplus of 5.1% by the end of this year, decreasing slightly to 4.8% next year, speaks volumes about the efficient economic management and strategic foresight of the UAE’s leadership. For business leaders and investors, these numbers offer a beacon of stability and potential growth. The broader MENA region, while forecasted to experience growth of 2.7% in 2024, looks to the UAE as a benchmark of successful economic policies and sectoral diversification. The #GCC economies, spurred by increased oil output and vigorous growth in the non-oil sectors due to diversification efforts, are expected to see improved growth rates of 2.8% in 2024 and 4.7% in 2025. This growth is not just driven by natural resources but is a testament to significant reforms and innovation in sectors such as technology, finance, and green energy. The report also notes a promising uptick in GDP per capita across the MENA region, with a projected growth of 1.3% in 2024. This increase is particularly noteworthy in the GCC economies, where GDP per capita is expected to grow by 1.0% in 2024—a stark turnaround from the 0.9% decline seen in 2023. The message is clear: the UAE, with its strategic geographical positioning and forward-thinking economic policies, presents a fertile ground for investment and partnership. The ongoing economic reforms and diversification efforts not only secure a sustainable future for the UAE but also offer lucrative opportunities for global investors looking to capitalize on stable, growth-oriented markets. The updated forecast is a signal to the global business community that the UAE stands resilient and robust, ready to welcome the winds of change and innovation. As we look to forge partnerships and expand operations, let us view these projections as foundational pillars upon which we can build a prosperous economic future. #dubai #abudhabi #economy #growth #leadership #investinuae #investindubai #investinabudhabi

٢٥

٥ تعليق

Leading shareholders of Gulf Islamic Investments (GII) and new investors have provided an additional $100 million in growth capital to support the development of private equity opportunities in Saudi Arabia and the GCC. This latest round of funding, which was oversubscribed, strengthens GII's capital base and enables the group to pursue promising private equity and private credit opportunities across the region. Key participants in the fundraising include the Al Nahdi Family Office, one of the largest private investment entities in Saudi Arabia, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), and existing GII shareholders. GII, a Shari'ah-compliant global alternative investment group, currently manages over $4.5 billion in assets and has been actively expanding its portfolio through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. In particular, the group has partnered with Brookfield Asset Management on two major transactions in the UAE: the acquisition of GEMS Education in a consortium led by Brookfield, and the sale of GII's UAE logistics network. In Saudi Arabia, GII further strengthened its healthcare portfolio by acquiring a majority stake in Al Meswak Dental Clinics, the Kingdom's largest chain of dental and dermatology centers, and a significant stake in Abeer Medical Company. In addition, GII entered into a logistics joint venture with Logipoint in Jeddah and expanded its investments through GreenCorp, GII's food production and processing platform, with stakes in Badia Farms and Emad Bakeries in Jeddah. In addition to its GCC focus, GII also manages two private equity funds in India and is actively pursuing other deals in the Indian private equity space. The substantial support from investors reflects strong confidence in GII's vision and growth trajectory within the evolving GCC private equity landscape. This latest infusion of capital will enable GII to continue to provide robust, Shari'ah-compliant investment solutions that drive economic growth in Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region. (Image by GII) #PrivateEquity #GulfInvestments #SaudiArabia #GCC #ShariahCompliant #AlternativeInvestments

٨

As we celebrate Eid in Dubai, a time of reflection and unity, it's also an opportune moment to reflect on the region's remarkable growth and future potential. The Middle East is not only a cultural and economic powerhouse but also a rising star in the global financial landscape. Key Developments Driving Growth: Robust Fundraising Activities: The Middle East has seen unprecedented levels of fundraising over the past year. According to PwC, the region's private equity and venture capital markets have grown by 25%, driven by strategic investments and visionary leadership. Global Investment Magnet: The influx of international wealth into the Middle East is noteworthy. As per Financial Times, foreign direct investment in the UAE surged by 44% in Q1 2023, underscoring its status as a global investment hub. Technological Advancements: The region is embracing cutting-edge technologies. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are making significant strides in AI and fintech, with investments projected to exceed $15 billion by 2025, according to Gartner. Thought-Provoking Insights: “The Middle East’s shift from an oil-dependent economy to a diversified, innovation-driven economy is a testament to its visionary leadership.” – Harvard Business Review “With Eid celebrations bringing communities together, the Middle East exemplifies how cultural heritage and economic innovation can go hand in hand.” – World Economic Forum As we enjoy the festivities of Eid, let's also appreciate the incredible opportunities the Middle East presents. This is a region where tradition meets innovation, and where visionary policies are paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity. #MiddleEast #EidMubarak #Innovation #EconomicGrowth #GlobalFinance #InvestmentOpportunities

١٩

Citi's Mohamed Abdelkader speaks to The Banker on Egypt's foreign currency position, portfolio funds and interest rate trajectory following the latest IMF tranche and ADQ's $35bln investment. -"The foreign currency orders that had accumulated at our end for weeks have now been mostly cleared...This is good news for the market in that we’ll see pricing of foreign currency based purely on supply and demand.” -"The situation is very different compared with 2021/22, in that the portfolio funds this time act as a supplement to the CBE’s [foreign currency] reserves rather than their main source." -“There isn’t the same dependence on such flows as there was previously; instead they give the CBE more muscle to act." -“We see the high interest rate as a temporary phase to tackle inflation. There will be pressure on businesses in 2024, but the outlook for 2025 is more positive." Omar Hafeez Nevnihal Ciftci Kawtar Amrani Tara Sirinyan

٤٩

🌍 As global dynamics evolve, the UAE is solidifying its position as a hub for finance, trade, and innovation. Our latest article, “Navigating Shifts: How Trump’s 2024 Re-election Fuels UAE’s Financial Growth and BoCG Ventures’ Vision,” explores how geopolitical changes could catalyze regional growth and align with our strategic goals. From enhanced capital flows to bolstered trade partnerships, the UAE’s proactive stance on global events highlights its agility in fostering economic resilience and opportunity. This momentum only deepens our commitment to driving transformative investments that shape tomorrow’s local industries. 👉 Read more here: https://bit.ly/3UZYXTg and join the conversation about emerging global influence. CC: Lyon Kassab, Chris M. G. H., Gabriel Queiroz Silva Andrey Brutski, Carlos Botelho Paula Filho #innovation #peninsula #arabian #antifragile #ecosystem #blockchain #venturecapital #privateequity #venturefunding #finance #vc #investments #growth #sustainability #technology #ventureops #scalability #antifragilefund #infrastructure #fundamentals #economics #finance #operations #VOM #technology #growth #uae #capacitybuilding #knowledge #economy #dapps #web3 #tokenization #emergingmarkets #AI #saas

٢٠

١ تعليق واحد

In Tahseen Consulting's #MENA+ #techpolicy insight, you'll read about the #UAE’s Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)’s internally managed assets reaching 64%, #SaudiArabia launching the world’s biggest green hydrogen plant in 2026, Telecom Egypt and Vodafone agreeing a $600M #5G deal in #Egypt, #Pakistan’s #EV policy delays causing investor uncertainty, #Qatar inking 8 deals with #Turkey, #Lebanon losing $5B+ due to conflict, #Vietnam’s FPT Software getting NVIDIA #chips for #AI cloud services, Viettel Group launching the world’s first #OpenRAN #5G network, and Reliance Industries Limited and The Walt Disney Company completing their $8.5B JV deal in #India 🇦🇪 #UAE #VC funding may ▲ 3x to $2B+ this year 🇸🇦 #KSA Saudi Central Bank – SAMA issues #ewallet rules 🇪🇬 #EGYPT #MCIT, SAP partner on university digital transformation 🇵🇰 #PAKISTAN to work with #China on 2028 lunar mission 🇰🇼 #KUWAIT #Ecommerce to grow 12%+ / year to 2028 🌍 #GCC Fitch Group, Inc. gets approval for #Riyadh #RHQ 🇸🇬 #SINGAPORE businesses still bullish on the US despite tariff risks 🇹🇭 #THAILAND prepares to tap #nuclearenergy 🇮🇳 #INDIA #Telecoms raise concerns about the draft #cybersecurity rules

٨

١ تعليق واحد

I have been watching the Saudi fintech space for a while now, and after attending the Fintech 24 event in Riyadh this month, I am convinced they’re on their way to building something big—possibly even the next India or China in fintech. What really stood out to me at the event was the sheer presence of decision-makers—top bankers, startups, VCs, and even industry leaders. It wasn’t just another fintech event; everyone was there because they were mandated to be there. That’s a rare thing to see, but it speaks volumes about how seriously Saudi Arabia is taking this. For any fintech ecosystem to grow, four things need to come together: regulators, banks, fintechs, and the right ecosystem players. And here in my view how Saudi Arabia is bringing it all together. 1. The Regulator: SAMA’s Forward Thinking The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) is playing a big role. They’ve rolled out their Open Banking Framework and created a Regulatory Sandbox that’s allowed over 60 fintech companies to test and scale.Saudi has also jumped up to 36th in global fintech rankings, which shows how fast they’re moving. 2. Banks Taking the Lead It’s not just fintech startups driving change—banks are leading the charge too. Riyad Bank launched 1957 Ventures to fuel fintech innovation, and Al Rajhi Bank has rolled out a digital bank. A recent KPMG report said 79% of Saudi banks are now working closely with fintechs, which is a major step forward in creating a collaborative ecosystem. 3. Fintechs Driving Agility and Innovation We’re seeing some impressive fintechs coming out of Saudi Arabia. Take Tamara for example—a buy-now-pay-later startup. Or Lean Technologies, which is making it easier for fintechs to connect with banks using their APIs. These companies are making big strides and showing just how much potential Saudi fintechs have. 4. Ecosystem Players Stepping Up And then you have the accelerators, VCs, and tech giants. Programs like Fintech Saudi and Misk Innovation are helping more than 100 startups get off the ground. On the funding side, STV and other VCs poured $400 million into fintech in 2022. Plus, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure are heavily investing in the region, providing the infrastructure needed for fintechs to scale. Saudi Arabia: A Unique Opportunity While fintech markets in places like India are maturing and investors are looking for profits, Saudi feels like it’s at a unique point as non binary market—full of untapped potential. With 70% of the population under 35 and the goal of hitting 70% cashless transactions by 2030, the opportunity here is huge. Saudi Arabia isn’t just copying India or China; they’re building their own path. From the government’s focus to the collaborative approach between banks, fintechs, and tech providers, it’s clear they are serious about becoming a fintech hub. For anyone in fintech, Saudi Arabia is a market you can’t ignore right now. (This pic is from 28k sq mtr The Garage startup district in Riyadh)

٢٩

١ تعليق واحد

Generative AI is becoming a key investment focus for UAE business leaders, as they look to leverage its potential for long-term impact. Learn more about how CEOs are prioritizing AI to drive future growth and transformation in the UAE CEO Outlook 2024 report: https://lnkd.in/dqBtdjT9 #CEOoutlook Emilio Pera Walter Palk Rohit Rajvanshi Chucrallah Haddad Joe Pacelli Akil Vanthliwala Marketa Simkova Damian Grice Aqeel AlLawati Kenneth Macfarlane Aabha Lekhak Harris Matin Mobeen Chaudhri

٤٦

In a recent report entitled “The state of GCC banking: An exceptional operating environment,” we delve into the remarkable performance of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) banks in 2023 and highlight their strong position in 2024. We analyze the evolving banking landscape in the Middle East, situate it in the context of global trends, and draw insights to inform banking executives’ strategies. Read the full report to gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities offered by the regional financial sector and discover detailed priorities designed to enable CEOs to build institutional resilience in a context of accelerating technological change and rising global risks. Link to the report in the first comment below 👇

١

١ تعليق واحد

What is one indicator of a maturing ecosystem? The sharp rise in startup exits 🚀 According to MAGNiTT, there were 43 startup exits recorded in 2023 across MENA, up from 15 in 2015. The UAE accounted for 24 of these 43 exits as reported from the DIFC 🇦🇪 Ryaan Sharif, our GM in the UAE, notes that "this trend reflects investors’ 'evolving priorities', and that “successful exits are not just about returns, they validate investment decisions and fuel the ecosystem by providing capital for reinvestment in new ventures.” What other factors play a crucial role in the rise of exits? Take a closer look into more insights from Ryaan and UAE-based companies with successful exits via AGBI - Arabian Gulf Business Insight: https://lnkd.in/dcdjm6Dk #Flat6Labs #UAE #VC #VentureCapital #StartupExits #Investments #Investors #BusinessNews

١٧

Yesterday, we proudly launched our #Innovation #Hub in #dubai, a game-changing initiative that will shape the future of #financial #innovation in the region. The #Innovation #Hub is more than just a space—it’s a platform for collaboration, disruption, and growth. By bringing together visionary #fintech #startups, global #technology #leaders, and #financial #institutions, we’re creating an ecosystem where bold ideas can flourish and real-world solutions to tomorrow’s challenges can be developed. At the #Central #Bank of the #UAE, we believe innovation is the cornerstone of progress. The #Innovation #Hub will drive: 💡 Cutting-edge experiments through both #technical and #regulatory #sandboxes. 🌍 Cross-border collaborations, reinforcing the #UAE’s position as a #global #fintech #hub. 📈 Opportunities for #startups to scale and thrive in a supportive regulatory environment. We’re not just embracing the future—we’re building it, one groundbreaking idea at a time. #InnovationHub #UAEFintech #CBUAE #FinancialInnovation #FutureOfFinance #EIFDubai

٢٧٥

٣١ تعليق

With its cash resources squeezed by huge investments ranging from gigaprojects to sports, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is set to tap debt markets for a fourth time this year. By end-2023, it had loans and borrowings totalling SAR466 billion (US$124 billion), up 45%. The latest bond issues, including those announced this week, suggest total borrowing has risen a further 8%, and it is expected that the fund will be seeking further leverage in the second half of the year, perhaps in the order of another US$10 billion. At the same time, PIF has diverted liquid public equity assets towards its investment drive, selling off a chunk of its public equity portfolio in H1, and massively drawing on cash reserves. Global SWF details how PIF is financing its ambitions: https://lnkd.in/dcbrnNsZ

١٤

🌟 The GCC is at a pivotal moment, where crypto and fintech are not just buzzwords—they’re the building blocks of a transformative future. These technologies have the power to revolutionize finance, promote economic diversification, and position our region as a global leader in innovation. 🇧🇭 Bahrain has truly taken the lead in this revolution. The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has set a benchmark for the region by embracing progressive regulations, creating a supportive ecosystem, and fostering innovation in digital finance. It’s inspiring to see how Bahrain is driving this change and setting the stage for the GCC’s fintech future. As someone who has the privilege of contributing to this dynamic industry, I couldn’t be prouder to be part of this journey. Together, we’re not just reshaping finance—we’re building the future. 🚀💡 #Crypto #Fintech #GCC #Bahrain #Innovation #ProudMoment #TeamBahrain

١٦

٢ تعليق