Home Blog Page 4

 ADGM’s FSRA and SFC Co-Host High-Level Roundtable on Asset Management Opportunities

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
 ADGM’s FSRA and SFC Co-Host High-Level Roundtable on Asset Management Opportunities
 ADGM’s FSRA and SFC Co-Host High-Level Roundtable on Asset Management Opportunities

 

 The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) co-hosted a high-level roundtable today in Hong Kong to discuss opportunities for Hong Kong asset managers within ADGM.

More than 20 senior executives of Hong Kong asset managers participated in the roundtable, which was led by the SFC’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms Julia Leung, and ADGM FSRA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Emmanuel Givanakis. The event was also attended by SFC’s Executive Director of Investment Products, Ms Christina Choi, and ADGM FSRA’s Executive Director, International Affairs, Mr Philippe Richard.

Discussions addressed a range of topics, including opportunities for Hong Kong asset managers to access investors in ADGM and in the wider United Arab Emirates (UAE) through the UAE fund passporting regime.  

Emmanuel Givanakis said, “We are delighted to engage with the SFC in this constructive high-level roundtable, which provided a valuable platform to explore emerging opportunities in the asset management sector. As the leading asset management hub in the region, ADGM is committed to fostering innovation, strengthening investor confidence, and unlocking sustainable growth. We look forward to building on today’s discussions to further enhance the competitiveness and resilience of our financial ecosystem.”

“Today’s dialogue builds on the foundation laid by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with ADGM’s FSRA earlier this year in May and underscores our ongoing effort to explore further connectivity. By bringing together industry leaders and regulators, we are advancing collaboration to facilitate Hong Kong’s asset managers in accessing the UAE market,” said Ms Leung.

At a subsequent industry seminar, the FSRA of ADGM provided insights into regulatory requirements for cross-border fund distributions for asset managers. More than 30 representatives from the city’s asset management industry attended the seminar. 

Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation
Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation

Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Meets Tunisian Minister of Trade and Export Development to Strengthen Bilateral Ties as Part of the Egyptian-Tunisian Joint Higher Committee Meetings in Cairo
Al-Mashat:
● “The Egyptian-Tunisian Joint Committee is a framework for consolidating economic, commercial, and investment cooperation between the two countries.”
● “We look forward to effective outcomes from the 18th session of the Joint Committee at all levels and to expanding cooperation between the private sectors of both countries.”
H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, met with H.E. Mr. Samir Obeid, Minister of Trade and Export Development of the Republic of Tunisia, to explore avenues for joint cooperation during the 18th session of the Egyptian-Tunisian Joint Higher Committee, held in Cairo from September 8–11, 2025.
During the meeting, Dr. Al-Mashat highlighted the historic depth of Egyptian-Tunisian relations, shaped by the shared aspirations of their peoples and the commitment of their political leaderships. She expressed optimism that the committee’s work would deliver tangible progress in advancing bilateral cooperation across multiple fields.
Dr. Al-Mashat emphasized that the Egyptian-Tunisian Joint Higher Committee serves as a cornerstone of collaboration between the two countries. Having convened 17 previous sessions, it stands as one of the oldest Arab joint committees and has led to the creation of several technical committees covering infrastructure, logistics, land and rail transport, youth, trade, and industry.
She noted that Egyptian exports to Tunisia reached approximately $434.5 million in 2024, marking a 15.4% increase compared to 2023. Egypt aims to further boost trade exchange, building on several economic agreements signed between the two countries, including the Greater Arab Free Trade Area Agreement, the Agadir Agreement, and the Free Trade Agreement. Dr. Al-Mashat also stressed the importance of maximizing the benefits of both countries’ membership in COMESA and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Minister underscored the critical role of the Egyptian and Tunisian private sectors in capitalizing on the opportunities available in both countries, with a view to expanding into African, Arab, and European markets. Strengthening the presence of Egyptian and Tunisian products and businesses in these markets, she added, will further deepen bilateral ties and unlock new growth opportunities.
Dr. Al-Mashat also presented the main features of “Egypt’s Narrative for Economic Development: Reforms for Growth, Jobs & Resilience”, launched by the government earlier this week. The initiative focuses on transitioning toward more productive sectors with better access to export markets (tradables), leveraging the country’s advanced infrastructure, and redefining the state’s role in the economy. These steps are designed to enhance Egypt’s competitiveness and encourage greater private sector participation, continuing the momentum of economic reform.
The Minister further referred to the outcomes of the preparatory meetings of the Joint Higher Committee at the expert level. These meetings addressed frameworks for collaboration across fields of mutual interest, including efforts to boost trade exchange and enhance cooperation in sustainable development planning, policy-making, and capacity building.
Dr. Al-Mashat also reviewed the key achievements since the previous session of the committee, highlighting progress in trade promotion, finance and banking, social security and insurance, and the environment. She also referenced new understandings reached during the committee’s work in the fields of investment, trade, industry, electricity, oil and mining, health, agriculture, and higher education.
The expert-level meetings for the 18th session were held on September 9–10, led by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation on the Egyptian side, and the Ministry of Trade and Export Development on the Tunisian side, with participation from 28 Egyptian national entities and their Tunisian counterparts.
It is worth noting that the joint committee mechanism is one of Egypt’s key tools for deepening economic, commercial, and investment relations, as well as cultural, scientific, and technical cooperation with partner countries. The Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation currently oversees approximately 55 joint committees between Egypt and countries across various continents.
In 2024, the Ministry organized several important bilateral committees, including the Egyptian-Romanian Joint Committee, the Egyptian-Jordanian Committee, the Egyptian-Tajikistani Joint Ministerial Committee, and the first session of the Egyptian-Polish Joint Committee and the Egyptian-Uzbek Joint Committee. More recently, in 2025, the Ministry convened the first session of the Egyptian-Swiss Joint Committee.

Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai South Launches The VIP Terminal Boulevard

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai South Launches ‘The VIP Terminal Boulevard’
Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai South Launches ‘The VIP Terminal Boulevard’

 To cater to the increased demand of aviation-related services, the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) at Dubai South, has announced the launch of ‘The VIP Terminal Boulevard’, a new development designed to attract leading aviation companies and luxury retailers.

Strategically located adjacent to the VIP Terminal, which continues to witness record growth in business aviation movements, the boulevard stretches 769 metres and features 16 premium buildings, offering state-of-the-art facilities and retail outlets across a total development area of 204,000 square metres. Designed as part of MBRAH’s integrated aviation ecosystem, the development provides an unmatched opportunity for global companies seeking to establish and grow their presence in the region. The boulevard will be delivered in phases starting in 2026.

Construction has already commenced on Aviation One, a six-storey building within The VIP Terminal Boulevard, which combines modern architectural design with advanced functional layouts, reflecting MBRAH’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, said: “Aviation has always been one of the fundamental pillars of Dubai’s economy. The growing demand for aviation services in the emirate is a direct reflection of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the advanced ecosystem in MBR Aerospace Hub which is beyond the aviation industry’s expectations. As we progress towards the completion of Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai will further cement its role as a global leader in aviation, attracting top-tier companies and setting new benchmarks for the industry.”

“The VIP Terminal Boulevard is a significant addition to the world-class facilities at Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub. It will open new opportunities for leading aviation companies and luxury brands to flourish, while further strengthening Dubai’s position as a premier destination for companies and a key player on the global aviation map,” added His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

MBRAH offers global aerospace players high-level connectivity and is a free-zone destination for the world’s leading airlines, private jet companies, MROs, and associated industries. Located in and developed by Dubai South, MBRAH is also home to maintenance centres and training and education campuses. It seeks to strengthen engineering industries to foster the emirate’s vision of becoming a leading aviation hub.  

Nasdaq Dubai Welcomes Republic of Indonesia’s two Sukuk listings equals to USD 2.2 Billion

By
اسراء وائل
-
Nasdaq Dubai Welcomes Republic of Indonesia’s two Sukuk listings equals to USD 2.2 Billion
Nasdaq Dubai Welcomes Republic of Indonesia’s two Sukuk listings equals to USD 2.2 Billion

Nasdaq Dubai has welcomed two new Sukuk listings by the Republic of Indonesia, admitted under its USD 45 billion Trust Certificate Issuance Programme. The dual tranche issuance, totalling USD 2.2 billion, reinforces Indonesia’s position as the largest sovereign Sukuk issuer on the exchange. 

The drawdowns comprise a USD 1.1 billion 4.55% trust certificate due 2030, and a USD 1.1 billion 5.20% green trust certificate due 2035, underscoring Indonesia’s growing commitment to sustainable financing. These listings build upon the country’s established track record in the global Sukuk market and highlight its continued leadership among sovereign issuers on Nasdaq Dubai. 

Following this admission, Indonesia’s outstanding Sukuk listings on the exchange now stand at USD 24.05 billion across 21 issuances, the largest sovereign Sukuk portfolio on Nasdaq Dubai. Nasdaq Dubai’s overall Sukuk market now stands at USD 98.6 billion, comprising more than 100 listings from sovereign, supranational, and corporate issuers around the world.

  1. Husin Bagis, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia for the UAE rang the market-opening bell at Nasdaq Dubai on behalf of the Republic of Indonesia to celebrate the listing, in the presence of Hamed Ali, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and Dubai Financial Market (DFM).
  2. Husin Bagis, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the UAE said: “Today’s sukuk issuance demonstrates Indonesia’s strong economic fundamentals and our nation’s growing role in the global financial market. This issuance also underscores Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that financing for growth goes hand in hand with our responsibility to protect the environment for future generations.”

Hamed Ali, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and Dubai Financial Market (DFM), said: “We are pleased to welcome this latest Sukuk issuance by the Republic of Indonesia to Nasdaq Dubai. These listings reflect the strength of Nasdaq Dubai’s platform as a hub for sovereign and ESG-linked issuances, and our ongoing commitment to facilitating global investor access through a transparent and efficient marketplace. “

Total outstanding debt listings on Nasdaq Dubai now exceed USD 139 billion, reflecting the exchange’s strong and expanding appeal to sovereign, corporate, and financial institution issuers across multiple geographies.

Aavishkaar Capital’s Global Supply Chain Support Fund (GSCSF) Supports the Horizon Group Africa with USD 5 Million Loan to Scale Operations

By
اسراء وائل
-
Aavishkaar Capital’s Global Supply Chain Support Fund (GSCSF) Supports the Horizon Group Africa with USD 5 Million Loan to Scale Operations
Aavishkaar Capital’s Global Supply Chain Support Fund (GSCSF) Supports the Horizon Group Africa with USD 5 Million Loan to Scale Operations

Aavishkaar Capital, a company of the Aavishkaar Group known for its entrepreneurship-led approach to impact-driven business growth, has announced its fourth investment in Africa in collaboration with KfW, the German state-owned investment and development bank. The investment has been facilitated by the Global Supply Chain Support Fund, providing a loan of USD 5 million to the Horizon Group Africa. This is the 8th overall investment by GSC Support Fund across the Global South and the fourth investment in Africa.

Aavishkaar Capital’s Global Supply Chain Support Fund (GSCSF) Supports the Horizon Group Africa with USD 5 Million Loan to Scale Operations
Aavishkaar Capital’s Global Supply Chain Support Fund (GSCSF) Supports the Horizon Group Africa with USD 5 Million Loan to Scale Operations

The Horizon Group aggregates and processes high value whole spices such as ginger, turmeric, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom and black pepper through its facilities in Nigeria, Tanzania, and Madagascar supplying markets in the EU, Asia, and the United States. The loan will be used to support Horizon’s working capital needs, particularly in the purchase of raw materials to better fulfil increased client orders.

The Global Supply Chain Support Fund is a USD 250 million fund focused on investments in Africa and Asia, with a mandate to deliver strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) outcomes while achieving both commercial returns and positive social impact. Its previous three investments in Africa include:

  • Hela Apparel Holdings PLC: specializes in ethically produced apparel, offering end-to-end supply chain solutions with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
  • Balaji EPZ: an apparel manufacturer with over two decades of experience producing for top global denim brands; and
  • Privamnuts: a leading Kenyan processor and exporter of macadamia nuts serving customers across Europe, the USA, and the Far East.

The Horizon Group was originally founded in 2006 in Nigeria, operating trading businesses across agro-commodities, processed foods and furniture. In 2017, the group decided to focus on sourcing, processing and exporting high value spices grown across three leading spice-producing African countries; Nigeria, Tanzania, and Madagascar. These countries offer competitive advantages in the cultivation of spices such as ginger, turmeric, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper due to their favourable climate and soil conditions and have historically been one of the largest producers of these spices.

Horizon processes both organic and conventional spices. The growing global awareness and demand for organic food has increased the market for organic spices, enabling the company to command better prices and margins. Horizon has direct relationships with over 3,000 farmers, maintaining strong oversight of their farming operations. The company also provides farmer training in good agricultural practices to expand organic cultivation. Additionally, it has organized the farmers into cooperatives to ensure organic certification and full traceability.

“We are pleased to partner with Aavishkaar Capital as we embark on the next phase of our growth journey. Their experience in scaling businesses, strengthening governance systems, enabling access to global customer markets, and unlocking capital will be invaluable as we build Horizon into the leading African spice processing company” said Jomy Antony, CEO of Horizon Group.

Commenting on the investment, Darren Lobo, Director at Aavishkaar Capital, said: “We are delighted to partner with the Horizon Group’s exceptional management team, which brings over 80 years of combined expertise in spice growing and trading, to build one of Africa’s largest spice processing companies. We deeply value Horizon’s impactful farm extension works with more than 3,000 farmers across remote regions of Tanzania, Madagascar, and Nigeria, as well as the strong, long-term relationships they have cultivated with top global customers over the past 5–8 years.”

Dr. Markus Aschendorf, Head of Division at KfW, added, “Our investment in the Horizon Group through the Global Supply Chain Support Fund reflects KfW’s commitment to strengthening sustainable supply chains across Africa and in Asia. We believe that purpose-driven capital can catalyze meaningful ESG transformation while unlocking inclusive growth. Horizon’s work in ethical sourcing and regenerative agriculture aligns with our vision for resilient, ecologically conscious businesses that are ready to meet global standards and thrive in international markets.”

EBRD, EU and GCF promote green lending in Egypt

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
EBRD, EU and GCF promote green lending in Egypt
EBRD, EU and GCF promote green lending in Egypt

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Green Climate Fund (GCF) and European Union (EU) have jointly signed their first financing package with Suez Canal Bank. Worth US$ 50 million (€42.6 million) in total, it will facilitate trade and boost access to finance through green loans to private businesses in Egypt.

The package consists of a US$ 25 million loan under the EBRD’s Green Economy Financing Facility, of which US$ 3.75 million is co-financed by the GCF to help extend on-lending to Egyptian households and private micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that are investing in climate adaptation and mitigation technologies within their business.

The financing will also include an uncommitted US$ 25 million increase to SCB’s Trade Facilitation Programme limit, to be used for guarantees and cash advances. This will improve SCB’s trade finance business volume, support import and export transactions and help expand its correspondent banking services and trade finance product range.

An EU-funded technical cooperation package will support project preparation, implementation and monitoring of the programme. The EU will also provide up to US$ 2.9 million in incentive grants to benefit eligible sub-borrowers who complete projects successfully and to compensate borrowers for the cost of adopting higher-performing technologies.

SCB staff will benefit from capacity-building activities that will promote equal access to climate finance and green technologies for women and men. Employees will also receive training to enhance their skills in trade finance, compliance, structuring trade finance deals and monitoring operational risks in trade finance, including fraud prevention.

SCB is an Egyptian commercial bank based in Cairo and organised as a joint stock company. Its total assets amounted to €3.4 billion in 2024. It operates through a network of 54 branches and employs around 1,700 people across Egypt.

Egypt is a founding member of the EBRD. Since the start of the EBRD’s operations in the country in 2012, the Bank has invested over €13.5 billion in 206 projects in the country.

MENA Opportunities and Saudi Momentum Take Center Stage at EFG Hermes’ 11th London Investor Conference

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
MENA Opportunities and Saudi Momentum Take Center Stage at EFG Hermes’ 11th London Investor Conference
MENA Opportunities and Saudi Momentum Take Center Stage at EFG Hermes’ 11th London Investor Conference

EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), today opened its 11th Annual London Investor Conference at the Emirates Stadium, running from September 8–11 under the theme “Investing Right in MENA.” The conference brings together global investors, leading listed companies, and policymakers to unlock opportunities across the region’s most dynamic sectors, including financial services, real estate, consumer goods, telecommunications, technology, energy, and materials. This year’s edition features 131 presenting companies and welcomes 710 guests from around the world, including 285 investors representing 146 leading investment institutions.

With a dedicated focus on Saudi Arabia, the conference hosts 82 Saudi-listed companies. EFG Hermes has partnered with the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) to showcase the performance and progress of some of the Kingdom’s most sought-after companies and provide market perspectives from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) and Tadawul. The agenda is designed to deepen engagement between institutional investors and leading Saudi businesses, strengthen both foreign and local direct investment in listed companies, and reinforce investor confidence in the market. By encouraging greater institutional participation, EFG Hermes aims to support sustainable growth and heightened trading activity across the Kingdom’s capital markets. The conference’s main session featured opening remarks by Abdulaziz Abdulmohsen Bin Hassan, Board Member of the Capital Market Authority (CMA), following the welcome note by Karim Awad, Group CEO of EFG Holding. 

The panel on the first day, titled “Financing Saudi Arabia’s Growth,” included valuable contributions from Mohammed Al-Rumaih, CEO of the Saudi Exchange, and Raed AlHumaid, CMA Deputy of Market Institution and was moderated by Alp Sarper, Editor-at-Large of Economy Middle East. On the second day, a fireside chat titled “Liquidity, Regulation, and Real Estate: Saudi Residential Mortgage-Backed Security (RMBS)” will feature Majeed Al Abduljabbar, CEO of the Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company, in conversation with Carina Kamel, Senior Correspondent & Presenter at Al Arabiya TV in London.

“We are honored to welcome our esteemed guests from the CMA and Tadawul, with whom we closely collaborate to promote high-quality opportunities in the Kingdom. As the MENA region undergoes structural reforms, technological advancement, and strategic policy shifts, we are proud to facilitate direct engagement between institutional investors and high-impact businesses. Our role is to ensure that clients, partners, and stakeholders are positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and equipped with the insights and tools needed to thrive as the region’s global influence expands,” said Karim Awad, Group CEO of EFG Holding.

“MENA capital markets are entering a new growth phase, with investment opportunities diversifying beyond traditional industries. Both regional and global investors are increasingly focused on high-potential sectors that were previously underexplored. Regulatory reforms, ongoing market development, and the region’s strategic push to diversify economies are accelerating this evolution. By bringing international investors closer to these opportunities, the conference fosters strategic dialogue that translates into tangible investment outcomes and supports the region’s long-term economic trajectory,” said Mohamed Ebeid, Co-CEO of EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company.

The 11th EFG Hermes London Investor Conference follows the success of EFG Hermes’ One-on-One Conference in Dubai, continuing to build meaningful connections between global institutional investors and leading regional listed companies while advancing the MENA region’s growing influence on the global stage.

ITFC CEO Highlights Over US$89 Billion in Trade Financing to Support OIC Member States, Including Arab Countries

By
شمس سيف
-
ITFC CEO Highlights Over US$89 Billion in Trade Financing to Support OIC Member States, Including Arab Countries
ITFC CEO Highlights Over US$89 Billion in Trade Financing to Support OIC Member States, Including Arab Countries

Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, Chief Executive Officer of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, participated in the 116th Session of the Economic and Social Council of the League of Arab States (LAS), held at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo. The meeting was attended by H.E. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, and H.E Mr. Samir Obeid, Minister of Trade and Export Development of the Republic of Tunisia and Chair of the Session, alongside ministers, ambassadors, and heads of specialized Arab organizations.

In his remarks, Eng. Adeeb Al-Aama expressed his gratitude to the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States for the kind invitation to participate in this Meeting. He also congratulated H.E Mr. Samir Obeid, Minister of Minister of Trade and Export Development of Tunisia, on assuming the Chairmanship of the Council, while extending his deep appreciation to the Arab League’s Economic Sector for its steadfast support to ITFC’s activities, particularly through the Aid for Trade Initiative for Arab States (AfTIAS) during its first and second phases.

He emphasized in his remarks that since its establishment in 2008, ITFC has extended more than US$89 billion in financing to Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member countries, including Arab states, with a focus on vital sectors such as energy, agriculture, and food security.

Highlighting ITFC’s developmental impact, Eng. Al-Aama referenced ITFC’s 2024 Annual Development Impact Report, which showed that ITFC’s financing contributed to supporting over 105,000 jobs within beneficiary institutions, training and capacity-building for more than 3,000 individuals, and financing for 312 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Beyond these direct interventions, ITFC’s support improved living standards by providing access to food for more than 30 million households and electricity to around 13.8 million households, underscoring ITFC’s role as a key partner in advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

On the Aid for Trade Initiative for Arab States (AfTIAS 2.0), Eng. Al-Aama noted that since its launch in October 2021, the program has approved 26 projects worth nearly US$7 million in grants. These technical assistance projects span areas such as agriculture, food security, transport, intra-Arab trade, ICT, SME development, handicrafts, and tourism. Projects have been implemented both regionally—through specialized Arab organizations—and nationally across several Arab countries, including Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Arab Republic of Egypt, People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, the State of Palestine, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Republic of Djibouti, and the Union of Comoros.

Looking ahead, Eng. Al-Aama announced that AfTIAS 2.0 will organize the first Arab Trade Forum in Doha in the first quarter of 2026. The Forum will serve as a high-level platform for dialogue and cooperation between the public and private sectors across the Arab region, promoting knowledge-sharing, highlighting trade opportunities, and helping to address obstacles to the Arab Free Trade Area.

In conclusion to Eng. Adeeb’s address, H.E. Mr. Samir Obeid, Minister of Trade and Export Development of the Republic of Tunisia, commended the pivotal role played by the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) in its continued support to Arab countries and its significant efforts in driving trade and development through the AfTIAS Program, which has become a leading platform for fostering economic integration and advancing sustainable development.

On the sidelines of the Council meeting, the Joint Committee between ITFC and the General Secretariat of the Arab League, co-chaired by Eng. Al-Aama and H.E. Ambassador Ali bin Ibrahim Al-Maliki, Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League for Economic Affairs, convened to discuss ways to mobilize support for AfTIAS and promote it as a platform for advancing Arab external trade. The Committee also reviewed the implementation of AfTIAS 2.0 projects in line with Arab countries’ priorities. It is worth noting that the program has approved two projects for the benefit of the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States: “Supporting the Advancement of the Arab Economic Integration System” and “Enhancing the Competitiveness of Arab Countries to Improve Access to Global Markets,”.

Al Zeyoudi Meets with South African Business Council to Discuss Strengthening Trade and Investment Ties and Private Sector Collaboration

By
شمس سيف
-
Al Zeyoudi Meets with South African Business Council to Discuss Strengthening Trade and Investment Ties and Private Sector Collaboration
Al Zeyoudi Meets with South African Business Council to Discuss Strengthening Trade and Investment Ties and Private Sector Collaboration

His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, met with the South African Business Council in the UAE to discuss strategies for ways to increase trade, investment, and private sector collaboration between the two nations. The meeting underscored the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its economic relationships with African nations, recognizing the continent’s increasing importance in global trade dynamics.

During the discussions, HE Al Zeyoudi highlighted the impressive growth in trade between the UAE and South Africa, noting that the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade with South Africa reached US$8.5 billion in 2024 – a 14% increase compared to 2023 and a substantial 120% growth since 2019. This trade boom continued in the first half of 2025, with non-oil bilateral trade reached US$3.93 billion. South Africa is the UAE’s second-largest non-oil trade partner on the African continent, reflecting the considerable potential and opportunities that exist for both nations’ private sectors to further expand relations.

“The UAE is committed to enhancing its economic partnership with South Africa,” HE Al Zeyoudi stated. “Today’s discussions were focused on encouraging new avenues for private sector collaboration that will benefit both our nations. We are particularly excited about projects related to food security, logistics, infrastructure, tourism, and renewable energy in South Africa and across the continent. By working together, we continue to unlock new opportunities that not only drive economic growth but also contribute to the sustainable development of all our nations.”

The meeting served as a platform to discuss various initiatives aimed at leveraging the existing trade framework for mutual benefit. HE Al Zeyoudi emphasized the significance of investing in projects that align with sustainable development goals, creating jobs and lasting economic value in Africa.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further explore collaborative projects that will enhance trade relations and economic ties between the UAE and South Africa, paving the way for a prosperous future for both countries.

Over 3,690 South African businesses currently operate in the UAE, spanning key sectors including construction, hospitality, financial services and more. UAE businesses are also increasingly active across South Africa. DP World is a major logistics operator, while AMEA Power is involved in generating renewable energy. South Africa is the largest exporter in Africa and has the highest nominal GDP on the continent, positioning it as a market with huge potential for increased private sector collaboration, particularly in sectors such as food, transport, and renewable energy, was a focal point of the meeting.

EFG Hermes Unveils Cutting-Edge, Intelligent Risk-Based Advisory Service in Partnership with Kenzi Wealth

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
EFG Hermes Unveils Cutting-Edge, Intelligent Risk-Based Advisory Service in Partnership with Kenzi Wealth
EFG Hermes Unveils Cutting-Edge, Intelligent Risk-Based Advisory Service in Partnership with Kenzi Wealth

Kenzi Wealth

EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has partnered with Kenzi Wealth, a distinguished Danish digital wealth management company, to introduce an intelligent, risk-based portfolio advisory service. This innovative solution delivers highly personalized, risk-optimized investment services, empowering clients to grow and safeguard their investments amid the complexities of today’s dynamic global markets. 

Seamlessly integrated into the EFG Hermes ONE app, the innovative ‘One Advisor’ feature, powered by Kenzi, is designed for self-directed investors who want greater confidence and control over their portfolios. The service helps investors analyze their portfolios before investing, optimize for better diversification, re-balance after investing, and navigate uncertainty during market shifts — all supported by sophisticated, institutional-grade risk modeling and analytics previously accessible only to elite investors and private banks.                                                     

Portfolios are actively monitored and intelligently managed, with clients receiving timely, actionable insights to ensure their investments remain aligned with their specified risk appetite, even amid changing Global market conditions. A streamlined digital onboarding process further enhances the experience, enabling clients to seamlessly begin investing journey with convenience and ease.

Ahmed Waly

Ahmed Waly, Global Head of Brokerage at EFG Hermes, commented, “We are delighted to introduce a transformative solution that seamlessly integrates intelligent investing with true client empowerment as we launch a sophisticated, risk-based portfolio advisory platform designed to elevate the standards of portfolio management. Our mission is to empower investors with clarity and confidence, not replace their decision-making. One Advisor is a personalized advisory service built on institutional-grade risk modeling, designed to guide clients through the complexities of global markets. Instead of merely telling investors what to buy or sell, we equip them with the insight to invest smarter, rebalance when necessary, and stay resilient in volatile conditions. Gone are the days of uncertainty in decision-making. Our automated, risk-based advisory service handles the complexities of investing, allowing clients to focus on their lives while their portfolios are expertly monitored.”

This offering is especially relevant today for potential investors who have been hesitant to enter the market. One Advisor lowers the barrier to entry by simplifying decision-making and providing structured support rooted in risk-based financial logic. This model, once reserved for ultra-wealthy families or institutions due to its cost and complexity, is now democratized through the EFG Hermes ONE platform, giving investors access to the same level of portfolio intelligence that was previously limited to private banks and elite advisory firms.

Mohamed El-Masri

Mohamed El-Masri, Founder and CEO of Kenzi Wealth, added, “Partnering with EFG Hermes, the leading investment bank in the MENA region, marks a pivotal step in democratizing access to innovative investment solutions. Together, we aim to break down barriers for new clients entering the space, offering tools that simplify the process while maintaining the sophistication of institutional-grade portfolio management. At Kenzi, we don’t just suggest; we listen, think, plan, and act based on each investor’s unique story. This personalized approach is what sets us apart – we provide the sophistication and structure of an institutional portfolio manager while ensuring it remains simple for clients and that they retain full control over their decisions. Through our collaboration with EFG Hermes, we are bringing to life a model that seamlessly blends automation with accountability and intelligence, complemented by human intent. Our mission is clear: to empower every investor with the clarity, confidence, and tools they need to navigate the financial markets and achieve their goals. Together, we are redefining personalized investing.”

The One Advisor service is currently exclusive to the Global Markets edition of EFG Hermes ONE. Existing clients can activate the feature directly through the app with just a few clicks, unlocking a world of personalized portfolio advisory. For new clients, accessing this innovative tool is equally effortless, simply by opening a global market account with EFG Hermes through a seamless, fully digital onboarding process designed for speed and simplicity. 

This launch marks a significant step forward in making professional-grade portfolio advisory services accessible, intuitive, and responsive. It is a new era of portfolio advisory — one where investors can plan smarter, invest more effectively, and navigate global markets with greater confidence. 

1...345...73Page 4 of 73

EVEN MORE NEWS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©