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ADNOC Distribution Shareholders Approve H2 2024 Dividend

ADNOC Distribution Shareholders Approve H2 2024 Dividend
ADNOC Distribution Shareholders Approve H2 2024 Dividend

ADNOC Distribution (ISIN: AEA006101017) (Symbol: ADNOCDIST), the UAE’s leading fuel and convenience retailer, today announced shareholder approval of all agenda items at its Annual General Assembly Meeting (AGM), including the shareholder approval of a final cash dividend of $350 million (AED1.285 billion) for the second half of 2024 to be distributed in April 2025. This brings the total annual dividend for 2024 to $700 million (AED2.57 billion), yielding 6.1%, based on the March 25, 2025 closing share price of AED 3.39, in line with the Company’s 2024-28 dividend policy of maintaining annual payouts of $700 million or a minimum of 75% of net profit, whichever is higher.

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairman of ADNOC Distribution, said: “Financially, 2024 was another record-breaking year. We delivered against our five-year strategy, achieving significant milestones that strengthened our market position and set the stage for long-term success. For the second consecutive year, our EBITDA surpassed $1 billion, driven by record fuel volumes—which increased by nearly 9%—and sustained non-fuel retail growth, which have allowed us to deliver strong shareholder returns.”

In 2024, ADNOC Distribution unveiled a five-year growth strategy underpinned by commitments to domestic growth, building international platforms, and future-proofing its business. By successfully executing this strategy, the Company achieved a record EBITDA of $1.05 billion (AED3.86 billion) in 2024, a 5% year-on-year increase driven by record fuel volumes, strong non-fuel retail growth, and higher contributions from its operations in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The 2024 dividend reflects the Company’s ability to generate strong free cash flow, which totaled $756 million (AED2.78 billion) in 2024.

Since its IPO in 2017, the Company has distributed a total of $4.8 billion (AED17.4 billion) in dividends and delivered 92% in total shareholder returns. This year’s dividend distribution of $700 million marks a 3.5x increase from the $200 million distributed in ADNOC Distribution’s first year as a listed company.   

Eng. Bader Saeed Al Lamki, CEO of ADNOC Distribution, said: “ADNOC Distribution is committed to leading the way for the future of mobility and convenience retail, as evidenced by our commitment to expanding our international operations and prioritizing high-growth areas. Throughout 2025, we will continue to drive towards our five-year strategic objectives, including 1,000 service stations across our network, increasing non-fuel transactions by 50%, and expanding our E2GO network to 500 EV charging points across the UAE by 2028. Diversification and innovation are key drivers of our growth.”

BUILDING THE FUTURE OF MOBILITY AND CONVENIENCE RETAIL

In 2025, ADNOC Distribution is targeting installation of approximately 100 additional fast and super-fast EV charging points across the UAE as part of its commitment to future-proofing and building the future of mobility. In the Year of Community, ADNOC Distribution is also exploring new ways to position its service stations as more than just functional stops, redefining them as welcoming spaces at the heart of the communities they serve. The Company aims double the number of properties occupied by top international and regional food and beverage brands by the end of the year, compared to the end of 2023.

By 2028, ADNOC Distribution seeks to grow the number of ADNOC Oasis convenience stores by 25%, increase non-fuel transactions by 50% and scale directly-operated franchise stores to 50 or more locations – a strategy is expected to allow for a 2.5-fold increase in property yield compared to traditional rental agreements. The Company is targeting 1,000 service stations across its network by 2028, and aims to add 40-50 in 2025, with 30-40 of these to be located in Saudi Arabia. In 2024, ADNOC Distribution reached a milestone of 100 service stations in the Kingdom by deploying a smart Dealer-Owned, Company-Operated (DOCO) model. This CAPEX-light, scalable approach involves partnering with local dealers who own service stations, while ADNOC Distribution manages operations. By 2029, ADNOC Distribution targets at least 300 stations across the Kingdom, positioning the Company among the top five fuel and convenience retailers in the Saudi market.

ADNOC Distribution sees strong growth momentum in 2025, with planned CAPEX of $250-300 million. Through AI-driven data analytics and personalized engagement, the Company is is reinforcing its commitment to digital transformation, strengthening its position as the UAE’s leading multi-energy mobility retailer while expanding internationally in a disciplined manner.

EID DEALS TAKE OFF! WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI LAUNCHES FLASH PROMOTION SERIES WITH LIMITED-TIME EID SEASON OFFERS

EID DEALS TAKE OFF! WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI LAUNCHES FLASH PROMOTION SERIES WITH LIMITED-TIME EID SEASON OFFERS
EID DEALS TAKE OFF! WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI LAUNCHES FLASH PROMOTION SERIES WITH LIMITED-TIME EID SEASON OFFERS

 Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the UAE, is rolling out a three-day flash promotion series this week to celebrate the Eid travel season. The exclusive series of promotions will be live each night between 22:00 and 04:00 UAE time, offering incredible savings on selected fares and baggage for a limited time only.

The first offer launches on 25 March, with ten percent off on selected inbound flights to Abu Dhabi. This offer is valid for bookings made during the overnight promotional window and for travel between 26 March and 30 June 2025, available on both the website and the Wizz Air mobile app.

On 26 March, a five percent discount will apply to selected flights to and from Abu Dhabi. Valid for travel between 1 April and 30 June 2025, this deal is available exclusively on the Wizz Air mobile app.

The final night, 27 March, brings up to 15 percent off baggage fees on selected flights to and from Abu Dhabi, for travel between 1 April and 30 June 2025. This offer will also be available on both the website and the Wizz Air mobile app.

These time-limited deals come as Wizz Air Abu Dhabi continues to expand its network and encourage spontaneous, affordable travel across the region. The flash promotion series reflects the airline’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional value to travellers flying through the UAE capital during the busy spring and Eid holiday period.

For bookings and more information, visit www.wizzair.com  or download the Wizz Air mobile app, also available in Arabic.

As a key contributor to Abu Dhabi’s sustainable tourism growth, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi offers ultra-low-fare travel to an expanding network of destinations, including Alexandria (Egypt), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Amman (Jordan), Baku (Azerbaijan), Beirut (Lebanon), Belgrade (Serbia), Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Cairo (Egypt), Cluj (Romania), Dammam (Saudi Arabia), Gabala (Azerbaijan), Kutaisi (Georgia), Larnaca (Cyprus), Male (Maldives), Madinah (Saudi Arabia), Astana (Kazakhstan), Samarkand (Uzbekistan), Sarajevo (Bosnia), Sohag (Egypt), Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Turkistan (Kazakhstan), Tirana (Albania), Varna (Bulgaria), and Yerevan (Armenia) among others.

Seviora Group expands international footprint with the opening of its first office in the Middle East

Seviora Group expands international footprint with the opening of its first office in the Middle East
Seviora Group expands international footprint with the opening of its first office in the Middle East

Seviora Group, a leading Asia-based asset management group with US$54 billion of assets under management1 and headquartered in Singapore, has announced the establishment of its Middle East office in the ADGM. The new office, coupled with Seviora’s existing offices in Singapore, India, China and Indonesia, will contribute to the expansion of the company in Asia and beyond, allowing it to better develop and offer bespoke investment solutions, co-investment opportunities and strategic partnerships to sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, global banks and family offices.
Seviora Group offers a gateway to Asia’s most compelling investment opportunities, deepening access to the world’s most dynamic markets whilst delivering differentiated investment and financing solutions across public and private markets. With investment capabilities spanning private credit, private equity, liquid and semi-liquid strategies, traditional active and liquidity
management solutions, Seviora has over 210 multi-disciplinary investment professionals across its five asset management companies (AMCs).
To lead its Middle East operations, Seviora has appointed Sadiq Hussain as its Senior Executive Officer for its Abu Dhabi Office. With a distinguished career spanning global asset management and investment banking, Sadiq brings deep expertise in capital markets, institutional partnerships, and regional investment strategies. His experience at leading financial institutions and strong network within the Middle East position Sadiq very well to drive Seviora’s growth and engagement in the region. Under his leadership, Seviora aims to deepen its partnerships with key investors and
stakeholders, and contribute to the region’s financial ecosystem.
Jimmy Phoon, CEO of Seviora Group, commented: “As we continue to scale up Seviora’s presence, we’re embarking on several partnerships to drive interest into Asia and beyond. The opening of our new office in Abu Dhabi marks a major step in our international expansion and highlights the strategic importance of the Middle East in our growth plans. This move paves the way For further successful partnerships with local investors to meet their rapidly evolving needs. By investing its own capital alongside its clients, Seviora is fully aligned with clients on investment outcomes.

Sadiq Hussain, Senior Executive Officer at Seviora Middle East, commented:
“Seviora’s expansion into Abu Dhabi is a critical component in its growth trajectory and engagement with the region. ADGM offers a world-class environment that fosters innovation, investment and financial services pedigree, and long-term value creation. I look forward to driving our regional strategy and deepening our engagement with institutional investors.
Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer at ADGM, remarked: “We are delighted to welcome Seviora Group to ADGM, further cementing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a trusted global financial centre. Seviora’s establishment of its regional headquarters in ADGM reflects our growing international appeal and the continued expansion of our global network. Our recent engagements in key global markets, including Singapore, have strengthened our position as a leading destination for businesses seeking growth and innovation. We look forward to supporting Seviora in unlocking growth opportunities across the region and fostering strategic partnerships that will drive long-term value.

El Palace Barcelona: A Symphony of Art, History, and Luxury in the Heart of the City

El Palace Barcelona: A Symphony of Art, History, and Luxury in the Heart of the City
El Palace Barcelona: A Symphony of Art, History, and Luxury in the Heart of the City
El Palace Barcelona, an emblem of timeless elegance since 1919, continues to enchant discerning travellers with its harmonious blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Barcelona, the hotel offers 120 meticulously appointed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to provide unparalleled comfort and relaxation. Accommodating from one to seven guests, El Palace Barcelona extends a warm welcome to families and their four-legged companions, ensuring every member of the party experiences the essence of Catalan hospitality.
Since its grand opening, El Palace Barcelona has been intricately woven into the city’s cultural and social fabric. Featured in the evocative novels of Carlos Ruiz Zafón, the hotel stands as a beacon of Barcelona’s storied past and vibrant present. Its walls have witnessed history in the making, from hosting illustrious guests to being a silent observer of the city’s evolution.
Art Suites: A Tribute to Timeless Elegance
El Palace Barcelona’s Art Suites are more than just places to stay—they are immersive experiences, each inspired by a legendary figure who left an indelible mark on the hotel and the world. Blending history, culture, and bespoke luxury, these suites invite guests to step into the stories of icons.
El Palace Suite by Ronnie Wood captures the rock ‘n’ roll essence of the Rolling Stones guitarist, who once called this suite home. With Art Deco elegance and exclusive privileges—including a private driver, sparkling drink on arrival, and daily afternoon bubbles—it offers a stay as legendary as its namesake.
El Palace Suite by Joséphine Baker reflects the glamour of the iconic performer, inspired by her French château. Having once graced the hotel’s stage, Baker’s spirit lives on in this opulent retreat, complete with personalised services designed for the most refined guests.
César Ritz Art Suite pays homage to the visionary hotelier whose name defines luxury. An elegant tribute to his legacy, the suite ensures an experience of supreme sophistication, offering exclusive amenities that honour his pioneering spirit.
Salvador Dalí Art Suite brings the surrealist master’s world to life, in the very space where he lived and entertained. With artistic flourishes and extravagant comforts, guests can indulge in an unforgettable stay, just as Dalí himself once did.
Joan Miró Art Suite is tribute to the renowned Spanish artist, this suite reflects Miró’s deep connection to Barcelona and Catalonia. Inspired by his bold, imaginative style, it offers a luxurious retreat with exclusive services, including a private transfer, sparkling drink on arrival, and personalised experiences that celebrate art and culture.
Carlos Ruiz Zafón Art Suite honours the acclaimed novelist. This suite immerses guests in the literary magic of Barcelona, a city woven into Zafón’s stories. With refined elegance and bespoke services—including a private chauffeur, afternoon bubbles, and curated cultural experiences—it offers a stay as captivating as his legendary works.
A Sanctuary for Art and Culture Enthusiasts
El Palace Barcelona offers more than just luxury—it provides an immersive cultural experience. Guests enjoy exclusive access to the city’s artistic gems through partnerships with institutions such as the MOCO Museum of Contemporary Art, Museu de l’Art Prohibit, and bespoke olfactory workshops at Carner Barcelona. For lovers of the performing arts, the hotel collaborates with the Gran Teatre del Liceu and the Palau de la Música Catalana, granting privileged access to opera and classical music performances, ensuring a stay enriched with Barcelona’s artistic heritage.
El Palace Barcelona promises an immersive experience where history, art, and luxury converge. Whether retracing the footsteps of artistic legends or crafting new stories within its storied walls, the hotel promises an unforgettable sojourn in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.

Tanmiah Food Company and Emerge Partner to Advance Energy Transformation

Tanmiah Food Company and Emerge Partner to Advance Energy Transformation
Tanmiah Food Company and Emerge Partner to Advance Energy Transformation

 Tanmiah Food Company, one of the Middle East’s leading providers of fresh poultry, processed proteins, animal feed, health products, and a restaurant operator, is pleased to announce a new partnership with Emerge, a joint venture between Masdar and the EDF Group. The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture by Zulfiqar Hamadani, Group CEO of Tanmiah Food Company, and Michel Abi Saab, General Manager of Emerge. 

As part of this collaboration, Emerge will develop a 3 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar power plant at Tanmiah’s facility in Haradh, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and supporting the Kingdom’s clean energy objectives.

Under the agreement, Emerge will provide a full turnkey solution for Tanmiah, including finance, design, procurement, construction, operations, and maintenance of the installation for 25 years. The solar power plant will provide 35% of the electricity required to run the agriculture processing facility, avoiding more than 3,850 tonnes of CO₂ annually. This is equivalent to more than 800 households’ electricity usage for a year.

Zulfiqar Hamadani, Group CEO Tanmiah, commented: 

“At Tanmiah, sustainability is at the heart of our business strategy. The signing of this project with Emerge marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a more sustainable future. By investing in renewable energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also taking a crucial step toward our broader sustainability ambitions. By scaling these successes, we’re redefining what’s possible and inspiring meaningful change across the Company and the sector aligned with Vision 2030 targets related to renewable energy.”

Michel Abi Saab, Emerge General Manager, added: 

“Saudi Arabia’s agriculture sector is on the right track to transform its energy supply. At Emerge, we are committed to supporting the ecosystem and businesses such as Tanmiah which are ready to adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly operations. Tanmiah’s sustainability ambitions are industry-leading and powering this production facility with solar will play a key role in achieving these objectives. We are excited to support their energy transformation through our full turnkey solution with no upfront costs. This approach facilitates smooth and easy installation for our customers in commercial and industrial industries across the region.”

Sustainability is embedded in Tanmiah’s operations, with the Company’s vision to become the number one global halal sustainable healthy protein company by 2030. This renewable energy partnership with Emerge will support the Company in making this vision a reality.

The solar power agreement with Tanmiah underpins Emerge’s ambitions to help the agricultural sector adopt clean energy sources at no upfront cost. This is the second project for Emerge supporting the decarbonization of agricultural operations in the GCC.  

Emerge was formed in 2021 to develop distributed solar, battery storage, off-grid solar and hybrid solutions for commercial and industrial clients. The company today supplies clean electricity to 38 commercial, industrial, educational and hospitality sites across the region.

Egypt’s Minister of Planning Discusses Ways to Support the National Intellectual Property Strategy with the Head of the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority

Egypt’s Minister of Planning Discusses Ways to Support the National Intellectual Property Strategy with the Head of the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority
Egypt’s Minister of Planning Discusses Ways to Support the National Intellectual Property Strategy with the Head of the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority

Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation Meets Head of the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority to Discuss Ways to Support the National Intellectual Property Strategy
H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, met with Dr. Hisham Azmy on Head of the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority, to discuss ways of joint cooperation and the Ministry’s support in implementing the National Intellectual Property Strategy.
At the beginning of the meeting, H.E. Minister Al-Mashat welcomed the Head of the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority, emphasizing the importance the Egyptian state places on protecting intellectual property. This importance was solidified with the approval of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s decree establishing the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority, given its pivotal role in achieving economic, social, and cultural development and building a knowledge-based economy.
The meeting touched on the Ministry’s support for the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority in implementing the National Intellectual Property Strategy through international cooperation, leveraging the expertise of development partners. In this context, the discussion included a project to develop the intellectual property automation system in the Egyptian Patent Office, funded by a Korean grant, and ways to benefit from it in light of the expanded responsibilities of the Authority.
H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized the importance of the project in supporting innovation and enhancing the business environment in Egypt. She also noted that it would contribute to accelerating the patent registration process and facilitate access to intellectual property-related information.
The Minister reviewed the Ministerial Group for Entrepreneurship and its role in enhancing the environment for startups. She highlighted the ongoing efforts to prepare a startup charter, pointing out the role the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority can play in providing awareness programs for startups about intellectual property.
The Minister added that entrepreneurship and intellectual property are key pillars for achieving economic development. It is essential to provide a supportive environment that fosters innovation and contributes to achieving national goals. Protecting intellectual property is a vital element in supporting innovation, and she stressed the need to work on developing legislation and policies that ensure the protection of innovators’ rights and enhance their competitiveness.
The meeting also highlighted the proposed projects to be implemented by the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority, which aim to develop critical infrastructure and enhance the operational capacity of the Authority. The importance of these projects in achieving the Authority’s strategic goals and supporting innovation was emphasized, with a focus on enhancing performance efficiency and delivering distinguished services.
It is worth noting that H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi issued a decree in 2023 to establish the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority as a public body responsible for organizing, overseeing, and protecting intellectual property rights in the country. This aligns with Egypt’s international commitments and aims to leverage the intellectual property system in a way that balances the protection of these rights with the achievement of economic, social, cultural, and technological development, as well as the building of a knowledge-based economy.

World’s Largest AI Prompt Engineering Championship Opens Registration

World’s Largest AI Prompt Engineering Championship Opens Registration
World’s Largest AI Prompt Engineering Championship Opens Registration

Registration is open for the second edition of the Global Prompt Engineering Championship 2025 – the world’s largest generative AI prompt engineering competition that aims to cultivate a global community that exchanges expertise, knowledge, and innovations in the prompt engineering space. AI experts from around the world will compete in four categories – Art, Video, Gaming, and Coding – with a total prize pool of AED 1 million.

The championship offers creative local and global talents a platform to demonstrate their skills in the field of prompt engineering by crafting precise instructions for an AI tool to generate desired unique content.

Organised by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), an initiative overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), the championship will take place during Dubai AI Week on 22–23 April 2025, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation.

This global challenge provides AI professionals and enthusiasts with a platform to push the boundaries of AI applications, collaborate on cutting-edge advancements, and immerse themselves in Dubai’s thriving innovation ecosystem, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a global leader in AI.

Applications close on March 22, after which 24 finalists – six per category – will be selected to compete live in Dubai at AREA 2071, Emirates Towers. The first day of championship will see competitions among six finalists in each of the four categories. The top 3 participants across each category will then advance to the final phase on the second day. Following two days of competing, top 3 prompt engineer winners will be selected and awarded a shared prize pool worth  of 1 million dirhams.

The evaluation will be based on speed, quality, and accuracy of the prompt engineering output that will be conducted by a specialised committee.

Saeed Al Falasi, Director of the DCAI, stated: “This April, the Global Prompt Engineering Championship will unite top AI engineers, designers, and prompt programmers in a high-energy environment to explore the next frontier of AI. This event strengthens Dubai’s position as a global testbed for AI innovation, ensuring technology is developed with real-world impact and for the benefit of humanity.”

Last year’s edition of the championship attracted thousands of submissions from nearly 100 countries. Thirty participants from 13 countries, including Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Morocco, India, Singapore, the Dominican Republic, Austria, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates, competed in three main categories: Art, Literature, and Coding.

For registrations and peer-to-peer voting, please visit the official Global Prompt Engineering Championship website: www.challenge.dub.ai.

Al Mal Capital REIT announces final dividend for the financial year 2024

Al Mal Capital REIT announces final dividend for the financial year 2024

Al Mal Capital REIT (“AMCREIT”), the first REIT listed on DFM, regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority, and managed by Al Mal Capital PSC (“Al Mal Capital”), a subsidiary of Dubai Investments PJSC, has announced the final dividend for financial year 2024 amounting to AED 20,555,595 (as against AED 15,416,697 for six months ended 30 June 2024). The final dividend of AED 4.00 fils per unit is a milestone distribution, as it is on the enhanced unitholders’ capital of AED 513,889,872 raised through a rights issue in April 2024. The final dividend of AED 4.00 fils per unit combined with the interim dividend of AED 3.0 fils per unit paid in August 2024 has ensured that AMCREIT continues with its commitment of target annualized yield of 7.0% to the unitholders. AMCREIT will pay the interim dividend to the unit holders with the entitlement date set for March 27, 2025.

AMCREIT delivered yet another strong financial performance for year ended 31 December 2024. In line with its strategy of growing its portfolio in the mandated sector of Education, AMCREIT completed the acquisition of Carnation Education LLC (“Carnation”), thus enhancing its overall investment portfolio. The balance sheet of AMCREIT surpassed AED 1 billion in 2024 with the investment properties valued at AED 993 million (as against AED 578 million as of 31 December 2023).

With the acquisition of Carnation (owner of Kent College Dubai), AMCREIT’s net property income touched AED 65.6 million for the full year 2024, which represented an increase of c. 47% over the corresponding period of twelve months ended 31 December 2023. The total comprehensive income for the full year 2024 was AED 61.9 million, an increase of c.80% vis-à-vis the previous financial year 2023.

AMCREIT’s core focus in growing its portfolio in the mandated sectors supports its vision of providing its investors access to an asset class with strong fundamentals and sustained growth. AMCREIT’s investment properties neared c. AED 1 billion, a significant milestone given the first acquisition was completed towards the end of financial year 2021. The REIT’s portfolio comprises five school campuses including two in Ajman (operated by Al Shola Group), two in Sharjah (operated by GEMS Education) and one in Dubai (operated by Aldar Education).

Commenting on the dividend distribution, Mr. Naser Al Nabulsi, Vice Chairman and CEO of Al Mal Capital PSC said: “AMCREIT has delivered yet another solid performance in 2024. The year witnessed key successes including enhancement of the capital base with new investor participation, acquisition of another K-12 school taking the overall assets to five school campuses and the continued dividend distribution to the unitholders. AMCREIT believes in sustainable value creation to its unitholders and in line with this, the final dividend distribution of AED 4 fils per unit reiterates the commitment to deliver the target annualized yield of 7.0% for 2024.

AHRC Condemns the Restart of Israel’s Genocidal Campaign of Starving and Bombing Gaza

AHRC Condemns the Restart of Israel’s Genocidal Campaign of Starving and Bombing Gaza
AHRC Condemns the Restart of Israel’s Genocidal Campaign of Starving and Bombing Gaza

The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) joins the world’s peace-loving community in condemning the restart of the Israeli genocidal policy of starving and bombing the Palestinians in Gaza. The victims of the Israeli genocidal acts are primarily infants, children, women, and the elderly. More than 404 people have recently been killed in cold blood during Ramadan. Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.

The Israeli breach of the already fragile ceasefire represents a dangerous turn. Israel continues to disregard all laws and norms simply because Netanyahu wants to prolong his political life. Netanyahu has no intention of having a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The reality is that the Trump administration is responsible for the restart of the Israeli assault on Gaza because it has sided with the criminal defendant Netanyahu. Israel would not be able to relaunch such massive, horrific, and unspeakable attacks without the green light from the Trump administration.

There is a ceasefire agreement in three stages. Israel is violating this agreement. Netanyahu does not want a permanent ceasefire and enabled by the Trump administration, is trying to unilaterally change an agreement that took months to reach. Israel is negotiating in bad faith, and Mr. Trump is supporting this bad faith. Innocent people are starved and bombed as a result.

There is also the plight of the Palestinians in Israeli prisons. Thousands of Palestinian prisoners/hostages remain in Israeli prisons. Many are subject to ongoing well-documented torture and abuse. These thousands of Palestinians are not counted. Their lives have no value in the eyes of Israel and its supporters. Israeli honoring of the ceasefire agreement ends their plight.

AHRC urges the Trump Administration to uphold its peace promise. The current Israeli escalation of war crimes and the ongoing Israeli weaponization of food, water, and medicine are resulting in avoidable deaths and suffering. The US can put a permanent end to this war but for political expediency is choosing not to.

‘The Trump administration promised peace and a permanent ceasefire but what we see is enabling Netanyahu to commit more atrocities,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “President Trump by supporting the most extreme Israeli government is making peace impossible,” continued Hamad.

EFG Holding Soars to Record EGP 24.4 Billion in Revenues, Driven by Strong Growth Across All Three Verticals

EFG Holding Soars to Record EGP 24.4 Billion in Revenues, Driven by Strong Growth Across All Three Verticals
EFG Holding Soars to Record EGP 24.4 Billion in Revenues, Driven by Strong Growth Across All Three Verticals

The Group’s Net Profit After Tax and Minority Interest Surged By 71% Year-On-Year to EGP 4.3 billion, Driven By Higher Profitability Growth Across Its Three Platforms.

EFG Holding, a financial institution with a universal bank in Egypt and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), announced today its results for the full year ended 2024. The Group booked its highest-ever recorded revenues of EGP 24.4 billion, representing a remarkable 66% Year-on-Year growth, underpinned by increasing revenues reported by all lines of business of the Group, EFG Hermes, the investment bank vertical, followed by Bank NXT, the commercial bank vertical, and EFG Finance, the Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFI) vertical.

EFG Holding’s operating expenses increased 57% Y-o-Y to EGP 15.5 billion in FY24, driven by the increase in employee expenses, and other operating expenses. In terms of profitability, the Group’s net operating profit rose 84% Y-o-Y in FY24 to EGP 8.9 billion. Meanwhile, net profit before tax rose 81% Y-o-Y to EGP 7.7 billion in FY24. The Group’s net profit after tax and minority interest increased 71% Y-o-Y to reach a record high of EGP 4.3 billion, on higher profitability generated by the three verticals. The Group’s total assets stood at EGP 186.9 billion at the end of December 2024.

Karim Awad, Group CEO of EFG Holding, reflected on the Group’s performance, stating, “The outstanding financial performance of our institution in 2024 stands as a powerful testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence, strategic foresight, and our ability to adapt in a rapidly evolving economic landscape. This year’s earnings across all our verticals reinforce our position as a leading financial institution in the MENA region—one that continuously delivers value, fosters growth, and sets new industry benchmarks. Our continued focus on innovation, cross-selling capabilities, operational efficiency, and client-centric solutions has enabled us to deliver sustained value and maintain a competitive edge.”

On the investment bank side of the house, EFG Hermes had a strong year, surging 81% Y-o-Y to EGP 14.7 billion, boosted by unrealized gains on investments/seed capital, foreign exchange gains, and outstanding sell-side performance. Sell-side revenues surged 95% Y-o-Y to EGP 7.4 billion, lifted by Investment Banking’s exceptional revenues and higher Brokerage revenues. Investment Banking revenues surged a staggering 220% Y-o-Y to EGP 2.4 billion. In comparison, Brokerage revenues climbed 65% Y-o-Y on the back of higher revenues generated by the MENA markets, namely Egypt and UAE markets, to EGP 5.1 billion. This was complemented by the growth in Structured Products’ revenues after the devaluation and the increased executions of Egypt’s carry trade. Net profit after tax and minority interest rose 63% to reach EGP 2.5 billion.

Revenues at EFG Finance, the Group’s Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFI) vertical, jumped 60% Y-o-Y to EGP 4.8 billion, led by Valu and Tanmeyah, and followed by EFG Corp-Solutions’ Leasing business. Operating expenses rose 45% Y-o-Y to EGP 3.3 billion, driven by higher employee expenses, other G&A, provisions, and ECL. Valu’s revenues grew 66% Y-o-Y to EGP 1.9 billion, boosted by higher fees and commissions as loans issued increased Y-o-Y, higher securitization gains which came at EGP 835 million, and foreign exchange gains. Tanmeyah’s strong performance in the year’s second half resulted in a 50% increase in revenues Y-o-Y to EGP 1.9 billion, on higher net interest income as the outstanding portfolio grew Y-o-Y. EFG Corp-Solutions’ Leasing revenues more than doubled, up 117% Y-o-Y to EGP 787 million, while its Factoring revenues grew 38% Y-o-Y to EGP 165 million. EFG Finance’s net profit after tax and minority interest more than doubled, up 134% Y-o-Y to reach EGP 815 million.

Bank NXT saw another strong year, with its revenues increasing 37% Y-o-Y to EGP 5.0 billion in FY24, primarily driven by higher net interest income, which grew 54% Y-o-Y to EGP 3.9 billion. The Bank’s net profit after tax added 54% Y-o-Y to reach EGP 1.8 billion (of which the Group’s share is EGP 909 million) in FY24, as revenue growth outpaced the growth in expenses.

“Leveraging our strong balance sheet and expanding regional presence, we remain committed to seizing new opportunities and driving sustainable growth. The continued expansion of our Investment Bank in the GCC, alongside the positive momentum of Valu, Bank NXT, and Tanmeyah, reflects the strength of our strategy and adaptability. These developments reinforce our focus on delivering long-term profitability, generating value for our shareholders, and supporting our clients and communities. Guided by a clear strategic vision, we strive to contribute to the evolution of financial services across the MENA region.” concluded Awad.

EFG Holding’s FY24 financial results and management’s commentary are available.