Tiziana Bombassei

Zeina Rizk, CFA, Co-head of Fixed income at Amwal Capital shares her views on the outlook for the US economy and the monetary policy, followed by insights into Egypt and Turkey. She also spoke about how to best position in the fixed income capital markets. 'Deposit rates are expected to continue dropping, while long-end yields remain high, which puts fixed income at a significant advantage compared to money market instruments and deposits.'- Zeina Rizk https://asharq.co/2gkt4

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👀 2024 summer is trending to be better than last year in #MENA Venture... I had the pleasure to join Maya Hojeij on Bloomberg Asharq Business اقتصاد الشرق to dive into the surge of global investors flocking to MENA markets 🌍📈 We unpacked a number of areas: 🔥 Have we experienced a summer slow down in Venture? 📈 What is driving SEED and Series A investment growth? 💵 Why #Fintech continues to dominate? 🔮 What were MAGNiTT predictions to year end and 2025? A big thank you to Maya Hojeij for having me on the East West Show, always a pleasure, and congrats on the new timing and show! Want more insights? Check out our latest article here: https://lnkd.in/dxqJ9iXR 🔮 How do you see the Venture scene evolving in MENA post summer? Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear from you! 👇 #MENA #VentureCapital #Startups #GlobalInvestors #UAE #SaudiArabia #InvestmentTrends

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An honor to have convened a Payments Boardroom on Investing in Fintech, with 12 of the region’s leading VCs, CVCs, family offices, and angel investors. This is part of the MENA FINTECH ASSOCIATION’s Payments working group, which I co-chair. Organizations represented included Arbor Ventures Seed Group Peak XV Partners VentureSouq Speedinvest Emirates NBD Mashreq e& COTU Ventures The Private Office of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum 237 Ventures Marshal Fintech Partners Summarizing some learnings below! *Key Advice for founders* 1️⃣ Find your niche and excel in it. Avoid overusing buzzwords like AI unless they truly add value. 2️⃣ Establish solid governance early to prevent misalignment between boards, investors, and founders. 3️⃣ Build robust operations from day one. 4️⃣ Leverage the ecosystem, form strong partnerships, and maintain integrity. *Trends* ♦️ The fintech narrative is maturing: success comes from collaboration with financial institutions, not disruption. ♦️ Cross-border scaling remains a challenge, but fintechs bridging markets, such as money transfer services, are gaining traction. ♦️ Open Banking is a promising investment with high potential for value creation. Stay tuned for the article with filled with detailed analysis, for more information shoot us an email at [email protected]

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Are you keeping an 👁️ on AI? Sara Enan, Oryx Fund, Ziad Makkawi, EQUIAM, Carman Chan, Click Ventures and Jaspreet Randhawa, Burkhan World Investments, joined our Tech and VC summit to discuss how the private capital industry in The Middle East is adopting artificial intelligence, what benefits firms have seen as well as  how regional and international regulations are developing. We learned how to mitigate risks to data protection and much more!

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Are #secondaries the solution to #MENA's Exits? In a recent conversation with Basil M. from Key Capital, we discussed the emerging potential for IPOs, secondaries and exits in the market. Secondary funds, which target shares in early stage investment rounds at a discount, can stimulate market participation by providing liquidity to existing shareholders without diluting company equity. These investments enable early investors to exit, allowing founders to clean up their cap table and receive a potential fresh injection of capital. Of course, the secondaries market in the #MENA region is still emerging, but given the global increase in secondary investments, perhaps it’s not too long before it becomes more commonplace in the region. Check out my full conversation with Basil M. for more MAGNiTT insights: https://lnkd.in/gT5X5Q7D PS: Great recent pod from the Unreasonable Podcast discussing just this and the impact in the South East Asian Venture space. Well worth a lisen! CC: Hian Goh, Vishal Harnal and Michael Blakey #webinar #exits #IPOs #venturecapital #startups

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Last week in Riyadh I had a super insightful meeting with Bandr Alhomaly, CFA from Jada Fund of Funds on the state of Venture in the Kingdom. As the landscape continues to shift, it’s becoming clear that investors are looking for more than just opportunities – they want transparency and data they can trust. An example of this, last week the Jada Fund of Funds partnered with Claudia Zeisberger from my alma mater at INSEAD to come up with a report on Valuation Trends in MENA ✍️ which used MAGNiTT data for its regional findings benchmarking against global markets. You can download a copy of the research here : https://lnkd.in/d8TBdEUR And it just so happens that I will be hosting Claudia next week on MAGNiTT’s latest webinar where we discuss the way private capital is shaping up in emerging markets with a deep dive into PE and VC. Register for it today 👉 https://lnkd.in/d_Y5XRn5  #InvestmentTrends #Transparency #Collaboration #WhiteReport #Innovation

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In Tahseen Consulting's #MENA+ #techpolicy insight, you'll read about the #UAE’s Mubadala moving forward on a $3B bid for Fortress Investment Group, consumers becoming more cost conscious in #SaudiArabia, OPay considering a #digitalbank license in #Egypt, #Pakistan approving the privatization of 24 SOEs, #Bahrain’s Investcorp closing its 5th #tech fund at $570M, #Iraq rejecting more OPEC+ cuts, #Singapore's industrial robot #startups going global, the #Philippines and UAE continuing #FTA talks, and #India developing a unified portal for digital public goods. 🇦🇪 #UAE Mubadala Energy makes 2nd major #Indonesia gas discovery 🇸🇦 #KSA Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) report shows 40% surge in domain registrations 🇪🇬 #EGYPT Misr Digital Innovation (MDI) invests $53M in #neobank OneBank Egypt 🇵🇰 #PAKISTAN planning a new satellite mission after iCube - Qamar success 🇰🇼 #KUWAIT announces new cabinet 🌍 #MENA Tencent-backed Airwallex talking with #SWFs for regional foray 🇹🇷 #TURKEY #Crypto bill to be submitted to parliament 🇻🇳 #VIETNAM has 2nd highest crypto ownership globally, after UAE 🇲🇾 #MALAYSIA eyes overseas #VCs to boost #startup ecosystem 🇮🇳 #INDIA #Ecommerce ▲ at 18% CAGR until 2028-29, will hit $60B by EOY

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Tether, the largest digital asset issuer, and Fuze, a platform facilitating digital asset transactions in the Middle East, have joined forces to push for digital asset education. Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), they aim to advocate for the mainstream adoption of digital assets like #Bitcoin and #stablecoins such as Tether.to (#USDT). This strategic partnership will focus on educational programs across Turkey and the MENA region, emphasizing the benefits of digital assets and ensuring compliance with #regulatory frameworks. By empowering financial #institutions and #businesses with knowledge about the real applications of #digitalassets, Tether and Fuze are paving the way for wider adoption and usage. Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, highlighted the transformative potential of the collaboration, while Mo Ali Yusuf, Co-Founder and CEO of Fuze, emphasized the importance of educating stakeholders at all levels for the future of #finance. Together, they aim to set a new standard for digital asset adoption and create a globally informed and empowered society. The only way to attract people to the #blockchain industry and make them enthusiastic is through education and #financialliteracy. While giveaways, airdrops, and prizes may grab attention, the real focus lies in providing comprehensive #education about #cryptocurrencies and #blockchain technology. As we care about our present, we must also invest in our future by providing the newest #technologies for the next generation to study and explore. https://lnkd.in/eY2v-Rwp

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💴💰Iliad Partners launches $50 million MENA-focused VC Fund The Iliad Partners Tech Ventures Fund I, a newly launched $50 million fund, is a significant opportunity for startups in the #MENA region, focusing on early-stage B2B software ventures in fintech, logistics, and proptech. While it primarily targets countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia, African startups have a pathway to benefit from this fund by strategically expanding into these markets. The Gulf region is emerging as a global innovation hub, attracting billions in funding from investors worldwide. For African startups, setting up operations in MENA opens doors to funding, partnerships, and a thriving ecosystem of resources. How African Startups Can Leverage the $50M Iliad Partners Tech Ventures Fund I 1. Expand into MENA Markets By incorporating your business or opening operations in countries like the UAE or Saudi Arabia, your startup becomes eligible for MENA-focused funding, including the Iliad Fund. We help African startups navigate this process, from setting up local offices to meeting regulatory requirements. 2. Join MENA Accelerator Programs Accelerator programs in the region are excellent gateways to funding, mentorship, and investor networks. Here are some top programs you can consider: @Taqadam Flat6Labs FasterCapital TURN8 @#Sheraa These programs not only provide funding but also help you refine your business model and connect with key stakeholders in the region. We’re Here to Help We understand that expanding into a new region or applying to accelerators can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether it’s setting up your business in MENA or preparing your accelerator applications, we offer: Support in selecting the right accelerator for your startup. Step-by-step guidance through the application process. Help with all required documentation. Expertise in setting up and launching operations in MENA. Why the MENA Region? The MENA region is quickly becoming the world’s innovation hub. With substantial backing from investors like the Jada Fund of Funds and prominent family offices, it’s the perfect environment for startups to thrive. African startups expanding into MENA can unlock new opportunities, access larger funding pools, and position themselves as key players in the global market. If you’re ready to take the leap and explore opportunities in MENA, let’s talk. Together, we can help your startup make the most of this thriving ecosystem Connect and interact with Abaz Ibekwe 🇩🇪🇬🇧🇺🇲🇳🇬 for more opportunities.

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COTU Ventures Launches $54M Fund for MENA Pre-Seed and Seed Startups Founder and general partner Amir Farha highlights the region's potential: 'Today, businesses in MENA are slightly behind the curve, offering a significant opportunity for software solutions. We're particularly drawn to high-margin industries where technology can drive efficiency gains.' Farha also emphasizes COTU Ventures' commitment to filling the support gap in the region's startup ecosystem: 'MENA's early-stage landscape lacks dedicated support. We aim to become the go-to partner for founders.' This initiative aligns with the region's tech growth, spotlighted at Expand North Star, MENA's largest tech startup and investment event. Exhibit this year and be on the radar of top investors and be part of amazing initiatives: https://lnkd.in/dx6Dp7h7 *Reference: https://lnkd.in/dBH-HK2U #ExpandNorthStar2024 #NorthStar #FutureBlockchainSummit #FintechSurge #StartUpEvent #DubaiChamberofDigitalEconomy #GITEXGLOBAL #AI #GITEXImpact GITEX GLOBAL Largest Tech & Startup Show in the World Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy

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Congratulations Faisal Toukan, Sarah Toukan and the amazing team at portfolio company Ziina زينة for raising a $22 million Series A from Altos Ventures! “In June 2021, Ziina, fresh from completing YC’s first cohort that year and securing a $7.5 million seed, launched its fintech app to 20,000 retail customers, allowing them to send and receive money. Three years later, the Dubai-based startup, which now counts 50,000 retail and business customers byafter expanding its offerings to meet the needs of micro, small, and medium-sized businesses in the UAE, has netted $22 million in Series A funding led by Altos Ventures. Indeed, such sizable follow-on funding despite the global funding slowdown underscores investors’ confidence in the fintech company’s growth — the company claims 34% month-over-month growth in customers for the last year, and says its revenues have increased ten-fold over the same period. Co-founder and CEO Faisal Toukan told TechCrunch that three factors made Ziina particularly exciting to investors. They include the rapidly expanding SME segment in the UAE, its focus on product-led growth, and its recently acquired central bank license. Ziina originated as a peer-to-peer (P2P) payment app for splitting bills, such as for group trips or rent. While the app gained traction with retail customers in the UAE, some who ran businesses sought to use the digital wallet to send and receive payments, too, according to Toukan. In response, Ziina organically expanded its platform into two segments: Ziina Personal for splitting bills among friends and Ziina Business for collecting payments. The first business feature allowed users to send payment links and get paid through Apple Pay, Google Pay, Mastercard and Visa. As demand from businesses increased, Ziina developed more products for them: a payment gateway (checkout) integrated with platforms like WooCommerce and Shopify for online payments, point-of-sale (POS) solutions for in-person payments using QR codes, and payments via social media. In addition to these features, Ziina added CRM functions so businesses can track customer details and interactions. The YC-backed startup continues to offer its P2P service, but it’s clear why most of its product focus is now on small businesses. The startup targets an underserved market of 560,000 SMEs in the UAE, which account for over 94% of all companies and contribute about 60% of the country’s GDP. The Series A round also included participation from Activant Capital, Avenir Growth, FinTech Collective, FJ Labs, Jabbar Internet Group, Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP) and Y Combinator. This brings Ziina’s total venture raised to over $30 million since its inception in 2020.” #fintech #SeriesA #MENA https://lnkd.in/eWsYnKRF

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Today, we shine the spotlight on our portfolio company, Lendo | ليندو, a trailblazer in the debt and lending sector! 🚀🌟 Lendo, a Saudi Arabia-based Shariah-compliant debt crowdfunding marketplace, has raised SAR 105 million ($28 million) in Series B funding, led by Sanabil Investments, a wholly-owned company by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This funding round also saw participation from us, AB Ventures LP, and other investors. 💫 Lendo's innovative platform pre-finances outstanding invoices for businesses, creating a vibrant community of creditworthy borrowers and sophisticated investors. Licensed by the Saudi Central Bank – SAMA, Lendo is on a mission to make financial services more accessible, affordable, and inclusive. 💵 ⚡ Key Highlights: 📈 Rapid Growth: Lendo's customer base in Saudi Arabia has grown 3X year-on-year. 💡 Innovative Products: The new funds will help introduce more Shariah-compliant financing products and accelerate market expansion plans. 🌍 Significant Impact: Since its inception in December 2019, Lendo has processed over 2,500 financing transactions, providing more than SAR 1 billion ($300 million) in financing to SMEs and generating SAR 140 million ($37 million) returns for investors. 👀 Vision 2030 Alignment: Lendo’s mission aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to significantly expand SME lending from 4% in 2018 to 20% by 2030. Lendo is not just a fintech company; it’s a movement towards financial inclusivity and innovation in the MENA region. We are proud to be part of Osama AlRaee and Mohamed Jawabri's journey to domination. 👉 Contact Lendo: lendo.sa Partnering with leaders creating tomorrow. #Fintech #Innovation #DebtCrowdfunding #ShariahCompliant #SMEs #SaudiArabia #Vision2030 #FinancialInclusion #Proptech #ShorooqPartners #Lendo #tech #investments #Entrepreneurship #venturecapital #venturedebt #privatecredit #privateequity #ksa #uae #egypt #korea #riyadh #abudhabi #dubai #cairo #founders #startups #wearehiring #jobs #spotlight #shorooq #finance #business #funds

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UAE-based FinTech startup Yuze has raised $30 million in a funding round led by Osten Investments, marking a significant boost for the company’s ambitious regional growth plans. Founded in 2022 by Rabih Sfeir, Yuze provides a comprehensive digital platform offering business accounts, card programs, and financial services aimed at startups, small businesses, and freelancers in emerging markets. The new funding will support Yuze’s goal of reaching one million SME and professional customers within the next five years, as it expands its services beyond the UAE. Yuze partners with banks and financial institutions to address the financial challenges faced by SMEs and independent professionals, aiming to enhance financial inclusion in the region. Rabih Sfeir, Yuze’s CEO, emphasized the importance of the investment, stating, “This funding not only validates our mission but also enhances our ability to expand and improve our offerings. We are committed to breaking down barriers and advancing financial inclusion for SMEs and professionals.” https://smashi.tv/en

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For our next sessions, we have an exciting fireside chat between Mohammad Atif Mahmood, Fajr Capital and Paula Tavangar, Injaz Capital! They will be discussing the local ecosystem of the Middle East: How is the region retaining talent and fostering homegrown financial growth? How are regional PE and VC in the middle east developing and how are governments speeding up innovation, creating new spaces and boosting local empowerment?  This is not one to miss!

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Gaming startups in the Middle East have the potential to create positive real-world impact, and should seize this opportunity to increase their influence and importance. With the power that they have comes responsibility, and founders who don’t factor in societal impact are missing a big chance to create value beyond entertainment. I’m grateful to Khaleej Times for allowing me to share my views on this subject. #gaming #gamingindustry #startups

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Rede Partners specializes in private markets Set to Open Dubai Office to Tap Mideast Investors : Seeing strong concentration of investors in Dubai: CEO : Advisory firm has raised €6 billion from the region to date “Dubai stands out as a very strong hub” due to its regulatory environment and connectivity “There is quite a strong concentration of investors in Dubai in particular. We’re also seeing a big increase in family offices that are based there” Sitting atop nearly $4 trillion in assets, the region’s wealth funds are evolving and seeking opportunities to co-invest with global money managers. These firms are now “encouraging their managers to develop activities in the Middle East to support the development of Middle Eastern markets” Rede Partners has raised over €100 billion since its founding in 2011, including €6 billion from Middle Eastern investors

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Matouk Bassiouny has expanded its fintech and emerging companies and venture capital (FECVC) department to the UAE aligning with the company's commitment to proactively embracing technological advancements and adapt to the evolving needs of its clients. This article outlines the role Matouk Bassiouny’s FECVC department plays in uniquely support emerging fintech companies and the distinct services offered by the FECVC team across the different areas it works on. "Matouk Bassiouny's foray into the fintech realm underscores its dedication to innovation and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of clients. In less than three years, the department has not only gained credibility but has also firmly established itself among the industry's major players." Read more here https://hubs.li/Q02NBNl10. #matoukbassiouny #fintech #innovation #egypt

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Shaping the Future: Strategic Leadership & Bitcoin Adoption in the Middle East | Bitcoin MENA 2024 I am honored to participate at the Bitcoin MENA 2024 conference in #AbuDhabi, contributing to the panel discussion on “Shaping the Future: Strategic Leadership and Bitcoin Adoption in the Middle East.” Our dialogue will centere on the pivotal role of strategic leadership in advancing Bitcoin adoption, aligning with the UAE’s ambitious initiatives: • UAE Digital Economy Strategy: Aims to double the digital economy’s contribution to the GDP from 9.7% in 2022 to 19.4% within the next decade, positioning the nation as a global digital hub. • Dubai Economic Agenda (D33): Seeks to double Dubai’s economy over the next decade, aiming to consolidate its position among the top three global cities. The Middle East is at a transformative juncture, with Bitcoin and blockchain technologies playing a crucial role in the region’s digital evolution. Engaging in these discussions is vital for fostering a sustainable and inclusive future. With the increase in bitcoin adoption building national talent and capabilities is crucial. I encourage the younger generation to elevate their skills in the use of cryptocurrencies, blockchain technologies and other emerging technologies Let’s continue to drive innovation and leadership in the Bitcoin and blockchain ecosystem! #BitcoinMENA #StrategicLeadership #BlockchainInnovation #MiddleEast #Bitcoin #UAEDigitalEconomy #DubaiD33 #crypto #bitcoin #digitalassets #fintech #blockchain #technology #compliance #AML

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