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Forbes Middle East Presents The Middle East’s Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders 2024

Forbes Middle East Presents The Middle East’s Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders 2024
Forbes Middle East Presents The Middle East’s Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders 2024
مصر الجديدة للإسكان والتعمير
مصر الجديدة للإسكان والتعمير

Forbes Middle East has revealed its ‘Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders’ ranking, spotlighting the 100 innovation-driven regional developers building for the future. The ranking was developed based on the company’s financials, the value of projects completed, projects under construction, the reputation of project delivery, and the size of the landbank and units held by the developer.

Mohamed Alabbar, Founder and Managing Director of Emaar Properties in the U.A.E. topped the list, with total assets of $37.3 billion as of the end of September 2023. Emaar Properties is one of the largest publicly-listed real estate companies by assets in the GCC. Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi-based Aldar Properties placed second, with $19.3 billion total assets as of September 2023. NEOM CEO Nadhmi Al-Nasr rounded up the top three.

The developers featured on this list represent nine countries in the region. The U.A.E. leads with 33 companies on the list, six of which are in the top 10. 23 are headquartered in Saudi Arabia, followed by 20 in Egypt.

Operating for over 118 years, Egypt’s Heliopolis Company for Housing and Development is the oldest entry. Founded in 1906, CEO and Managing Director Sameh El Said was appointed to his current position in August 2023. In the first nine months of 2023, the company recorded total assets worth $146.7 million and revenues worth $12.9 million. In contrast, Bahrain’s Infracorp, led by CEO Majed Abdulla Al Khan, is the youngest listee established in 2022. It amassed $26.9 million in net profits and had total assets of $1.6 billion, by the end of September 2023.

Top 100 Most Impactful Real Estate Developers In The Middle East 2024: Country Breakdown
U.A.E. 33 Kuwait 7 Oman 3
Saudi Arabia 23 Qatar 6 Jordan 2
Egypt 20 Bahrain 4 Morocco 2

Top 10 Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders In The Middle East 2024

1 | Mohamed Alabbar

Founder & Managing Director, Emaar Properties

Country: U.A.E.

Established: 1997

2 | Talal Al Dhiyebi

Group CEO, Aldar Properties

Country: U.A.E.

Established: 2005

3 | Nadhmi Al-Nasr

CEO, NEOM

Country: Saudi Arabia

Established: 2019

4 | Hesham Al Qassim

CEO, Wasl

Country: U.A.E.

Established: 2008

5 | Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah

CEO, Qatari Diar

Country: Qatar

Established: 2005

6 | Hussain Sajwani

Founder & Chairman, DAMAC Properties

Country: U.A.E.

Established: 2002

7 | David Grover

Group CEO, ROSHN Group

Country: Saudi Arabia

Established: 2020

 

8 | Naaman Atallah

Group CEO, Nakheel

Country: U.A.E.

Established: 2001

9 | Hisham Talaat Moustafa

CEO & Managing Director, Talaat Moustafa Group Holding  

Country: Egypt

Established: 1970

10 | P.N.C. Menon

Founder & Chairman, Sobha Realty  

Country: U.A.E.

Established: 1976

Click here to view the complete list of The Middle East’s Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders 2024.

MOIAT LAUNCHES ITTI USE-CASE GUIDE ON INDUSTRIAL BEST PRACTICES TO DRIVE I4.0 TRANSFORMATION

MOIAT LAUNCHES ITTI USE-CASE GUIDE ON INDUSTRIAL BEST PRACTICES TO DRIVE I4.0 TRANSFORMATION
MOIAT LAUNCHES ITTI USE-CASE GUIDE ON INDUSTRIAL BEST PRACTICES TO DRIVE I4.0 TRANSFORMATION

The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has launched the Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI) Use-Case Guide to provide manufacturers and key stakeholders with insights and recommendations on key Industry 4.0 technologies and sector-specific sustainability initiatives.

With findings derived from ITTI assessments, the comprehensive guide encompasses more than 90 high-impact use cases prioritized from over 1,530 Industry 4.0 applications and sustainability initiatives presenting a potential market opportunity of AED 1.5 billion, as well as advanced technology trends, from nine priority sectors within the UAE’s industrial landscape.

The initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology “Operation 300Bn” to boost innovation by accelerating advanced technology adoption across the industrial value chain, as well as support the growth of local industries and enhance their global competitiveness.

His Excellency Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, said: “In line with the vision of the UAE’s leadership, we are committed to supporting the growth of the industrial and technological sectors. This includes establishing an enabling ecosystem with a strong legal framework, competitive incentives and investment opportunities. In addition, the ministry is helping to build an environment that enhances the competitiveness of national industries, raising their contribution to GDP.”

He added: “At the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, we are developing and launching initiatives aimed at promoting the adoption of AI applications in industry. We are pleased to launch the Industrial Technology Transformation Index Use-Case Guide, a unique tool that helps industrial leaders in the UAE develop strategies and make decisions that enable them to accelerate their technological transformation and implement Fourth Industrial Revolution solutions such as AI and IoT. The new guide promotes innovation and aims to boost the role of technology in shaping the future of industry.”

Her Excellency Sarah AlAmiri, Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology  said: “The ITTI Use-Case Guide is an important step in empowering our industry leaders to make informed decisions, creating pathways for a more innovative and sustainable manufacturing future. Over 92% of ITTI-assessed companies have adopted sustainability initiatives and 32% of manufacturers have implemented advanced Industry 4.0 use cases, which demonstrates a growing sector, and presents companies – particularly SMEs – with an opportunity to enhance performance and efficiency in line with local and global best practices.”

 

She added: “The ministry, through the Technology Transformation Program (TTP) is committed to driving technology adoption by building capability, sharing knowledge, providing incentives and fostering a conducive environment for experimentation. This contributes to the development of the industrial sector and is aimed at enhancing the UAE’s position as a global hub for advanced industries.”

Launched during a masterclass for C-Suite leaders from the UAE’s largest industrial companies and SMEs alongside tech providers and academia, the ITTI Use-Case Guide, is aimed at showcasing the successful implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies across the national sector through transformative, high-impact Industry 4.0 use cases.

The masterclass, titled ‘The Innovation Imperative: Future-Proofing Your Manufacturing with Cutting-Edge Tech’, hosted by the ministry at its Dubai headquarters with peer stakeholders in attendance, discussed top use cases, actionable strategies, problem-solving insights, and cutting-edge technologies.

During the event, participants discussed opportunities and potential challenges relating to integrating innovative use cases into their operations.

Developed based on meticulous assessment reports, the guide details sector-specific Industry 4.0 use cases in 20 charters, laying the foundation for manufacturers in the UAE to drive digital transformation and unlock opportunities in the market. The ITTI Use Case Guide sheds light on upcoming Industry 4.0 use cases with top potential market opportunities including ‘Predictive Maintenance for Shopfloor Machinery’ and ‘Automating Enterprise Processes Using RPAs’ amongst others.

The ITTI was launched under the Technology Transformation Program in February 2023 with the aim of empowering companies to begin and accelerate their digital transformations. It is a comprehensive tool for measuring a plant’s digital and sustainability maturity, and providing a customized roadmap for smarter, more sustainable production. The index, developed alongside the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), measures Industry 4.0 and sustainability readiness to drive decarbonization and sustainability in line with the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative.

The Use-Case Guide can be accessed here: https://www.moiat.gov.ae/-/media/site/moiat/public/ittiusecaseguide.ashx

EBRD approves new country strategy for Morocco

EBRD approves new country strategy for Morocco
EBRD approves new country strategy for Morocco

The Board of Directors of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved its country strategy for Morocco for the period 2024 to 2029. It focuses on three key priorities identified in cooperation with the Moroccan government:

  • support the shift to a more private-sector-led economy by enhancing competitiveness and promoting Morocco’s governance reform agenda
  • strengthen social cohesion and reduce regional disparities for more inclusive growth
  • accelerate Morocco’s green economy transition through more sustainable energy, water and infrastructure.

Antoine Sallé de Chou, the EBRD’s Head of Morocco, said: “The adoption of the new strategy is a key milestone for the Bank and Morocco. It will guide our investments and policy dialogue over the coming five years to help deliver inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the country.”

The new strategy aims to support Morocco in its shift to a private-investment-led economy induced under its New Development Model. To achieve this, the EBRD will use its financing tools and advisory initiatives to help Moroccan corporates and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) integrate further into global value chains and develop capital markets. It will also promote deeper regional integration and help the country anchor its position as a gateway to Africa. In addition, the Bank will assist the authorities in their comprehensive reform of state-owned enterprises and support the expansion of its promising public-private partnerships programme.

The strategy pays particular attention to ensuring that growth benefits everyone, and particularly improve women and youth economic inclusion, which is still too low. Through its investment and policy programmes, the Bank will seek to improve access to finance and advisory for women and young entrepreneurs, as well as to reduce skills mismatches. It will also seek to reduce regional disparities and support the provision of critical infrastructure services and economic opportunities in the regions affected by the 8 September 2023 earthquake.

Lastly, the new strategy seeks to accelerate Morocco’s green economy transition, building on the country’s positive momentum. Given the increasingly urgent need to manage water resources efficiently, the Bank will look for opportunities to finance and promote water projects that promote conservation, improve water management and address scarcity. Energy transition, a scaling-up of renewable energy and climate adaptation measures are other areas in which Morocco will be encouraged on its path towards carbon neutrality.

During the previous strategy period the Bank deployed €1.6 billion to help realise Morocco’s entrepreneurial potential; invested €730 million in key infrastructure projects; provided €700 million for the sustainability and commercialisation of public services and infrastructure; and invested €100 million to advance capital markets development.

The new country strategy was approved by the Bank’s Board of Directors after a comprehensive consultation period and reflects feedback from shareholders, the Moroccan authorities, the private sector and civil society.

Morocco is a founding member of the EBRD. The Bank began operating there in 2012 and has since invested more than €4.5 billion in 102 projects, of which 76 per cent are in the private sector.

Islamic Treasury Sukuk Continue to Achieve Exceptional Results

Islamic Treasury Sukuk Continue to Achieve Exceptional Results
Islamic Treasury Sukuk Continue to Achieve Exceptional Results

The United Arab Emirates, represented by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) as the issuer, in collaboration with the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) as the issuing and paying agent, has announced the results of the Islamic Treasury Sukuk (T-Sukuk) auction, which is part of the Islamic T-Sukuk issuance programme for Q1 2024 as published on the ministry’s website.

The auction witnessed a strong demand through the eight primary dealers for the 3-year and 5-year tranches of the Islamic T-Sukuk, with bids received worth AED7.83 billion and an oversubscription by 7.1 times. The success is reflected in the attractive market driven prices, which was achieved by a spread of 4 bps over the US Treasuries with similar maturities.

The Islamic T-Sukuk issuance programme will contribute to building the UAE dirham denominated yield curve, providing safe investment alternatives for investors, strengthening the local debt capital market, developing the investment environment, as well as supporting sustainable economic growth.

For more information, please visit https://mof.gov.ae/federal-debt-management-office/.

Valu Closes its Eighth Securitization worth EGP 888 Million

Valu Closes its Eighth Securitization worth EGP 888 Million
Valu Closes its Eighth Securitization worth EGP 888 Million

Valu, MENA’s leading universal financial technology powerhouse, announced today that it has closed its eighth securitized bond issuance worth EGP 888 million. The issuance is part of the approved extended program worth EGP 9.0 billion.

The bond is backed by a receivables portfolio assigned to EFG for Securitization, the issuance’s special purpose vehicle (SPV), and is comprised of two tranches:

  • Tranche A – Valued at EGP 639.4 million, with a 6-month bond tenor, a Prime 1 (sf) rating, and a fixed interest rate.
  • Tranche B – Valued at EGP 248.6 million, with a 12-month bond tenor, a Prime 2 (sf) rating, and a fixed interest rate.

Shokry Bidair, CFO of Valu, said, “We are excited about the latest securitized bond offering, which signifies a major milestone in our strategic journey. With the successful closure of our eighth securitization issuance in partnership with EFG Hermes, we are taking a significant step towards sustainable growth and expanding our ability to deliver diverse and innovative financial services to our clients. This offering builds on our past successes and sets the stage for us to explore new and innovative ways to access the debt capital market, supporting our ambitious growth objectives. By strengthening our financial base, we are reaffirming our commitment to cementing Valu as a leading financial technology powerhouse, delivering comprehensive financial solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

Valu, is revolutionizing the financial landscape in Egypt by enriching the lives of millions with its cutting-edge offerings. The company’s flagship BNPL platform ‘U’ and a diverse array of investment products, such as the AZ Valu fund and EFG Hermes ONE, are empowering customers to achieve their financial goals with ease. In addition to these services, Valu continues to introduce innovative solutions to meet its customers’ evolving needs. From the instant cash redemption program Sha2labaz to the convenient savings solution Akeed and the luxury financing program Ulter, Valu is committed to providing comprehensive financial services tailored to enhance the customer experience. Recently, Valu has unveiled its co-branded credit card and prepaid card in partnership with Visa, expanding its range of offerings to provide greater financial flexibility and convenience to its customers.

Maie Hamdy, Managing Director – Debt Capital Markets at EFG Hermes, commented on the transaction, saying, “We are thrilled to be a part of Valu’s continued success story. This latest transaction not only underscores our dedication to providing innovative financial solutions but also showcases the exceptional collaboration between our teams at EFG Holding. We are thrilled to play a pivotal role in fueling Valu’s remarkable growth trajectory, and we eagerly anticipate the boundless opportunities that lie ahead for our dynamic partnership.”

EFG Hermes was the sole financial advisor and sole transaction manager. EFG Hermes and Arab African International Bank (AAIB) also acted as the issuance’s underwriters. African International Bank (AAIB) also acted as the custodian bank. Arab Banking Cooperation (ABC), and Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK) were within the subscribers to the issuance. Dreny & Partners acted as the legal advisor. Baker Tilly acted as the transaction’s auditor.

ADGM 2024 Growth Outlook: Over 70% of Companies in ADGM Plan Workforce Expansion in 2024

ADGM 2024 Growth Outlook: Over 70% of Companies in ADGM Plan Workforce Expansion in 2024

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial centre (IFC) of Abu Dhabi, stands as a testament to the vision and ambition that drive the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the wider region’s economic landscape. A recent comprehensive survey conducted among the ADGM community offers a window into the promising outlook for ADGM in 2024.

The survey results indicate a strong growth trajectory in several sectors, with Asset Management poised to take the lead, as 18.56% of respondents recognise its significant growth potential. Following closely are the Fintech and the fields of Digital Assets, Blockchain, and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), with 17.08% and 16.83% of stakeholders banking on their rise, respectively. These sectors are reinforced by the growing interest in Sustainable Finance and Private Banking and Wealth Management, which are also projected to experience substantial growth. Furthermore, Professional Services are forecast to continue their upward trend, rounding out the sectors set for expansion within the dynamic financial landscape of the IFC.

ADGM’s Unique Position as a Premier IFC

The survey shed light on the unique attributes that define ADGM’s appeal as a business hub. Notably, 21.35% of participants acknowledged the robust regulatory environment as a cornerstone of ADGM’s competitive edge. The market’s strategic location was also highlighted by 19.66% of the survey pool, underlining ADGM’s role as a strategic gateway for tapping into the MEASA region and beyond. The multitude of networking opportunities (17.04%), the exceptional quality of life (14.98%), and the diverse community (14.04%) were also recognised as key strengths that contribute to ADGM’s position as an attractive business destination. In addition, the availability of a skilled workforce, acknowledged by 11.24% of respondents, emphasises the market’s capacity for attracting and fostering professional talent.

Anticipated Employment Surge in ADGM

A total of 70.81% of companies anticipate expanding their workforce in ADGM during 2024, with 29.93% expecting significant increases and 40.88% planning moderate growth in staffing. This collective optimism underscores Abu Dhabi’s robust economic health and the strong confidence within the business community in the IFC’s conducive business environment.

Business Community Confidence in ADGM

The confidence in ADGM is further reinforced by the readiness of the business community to recommend the IFC to businesses. An impressive 97.08% of business leaders express a positive inclination towards endorsing ADGM. Among them, 71.53% are ‘Highly likely’ and an additional 25.55% consider themselves ‘Likely’ to recommend it. This substantial majority reflects the strong confidence in which ADGM’s world-class regulatory framework, advanced infrastructure, and exceptional business opportunities held within the global business community. Moreover, this is a clear reflection that ADGM’s comprehensive approach to fostering a supportive, innovative, and thriving business environment is clearly resonating with the global business community, positioning it as a leading IFC and a hub of economic activity for the future.

Abu Dhabi a City Known for Safety, Stability and Quality of Life

A combined 78.84% of respondents endorse Abu Dhabi’s overall liveability positively. This endorsement highlights the city’s effectiveness in delivering an outstanding quality of life, supported by superior infrastructure, affordable living costs, and luxurious community facilities. Additionally, Abu Dhabi’s achievement in being ranked as the world’s safest city for the 8th consecutive year further underlines its excellence in ensuring the security and well-being of its residents, making it an even more attractive destination for both expatriates and nationals.

WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI SHARES LOVE OF TRAVEL THIS RAMADAN WITH AN INCREDIBLE FLASH 20 PERCENT SALE ON TICKETS

WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI SHARES LOVE OF TRAVEL THIS RAMADAN WITH AN INCREDIBLE FLASH 20 PERCENT SALE ON TICKETS

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the UAE, is celebrating Ramadan with an unmissable promotion on selected routes for travel lovers looking to discover must-see destinations. The flash promotion is applicable for bookings made on 20 March, with travel dates to destinations, including vibrant cities and natural paradises across its ever-expanding network, available until 30 June 2024*.

The selected routes are now available on wizzair.com and the WIZZ mobile app, both accessible in Arabic. With Wizz Air, ultra-low-fares are just a few clicks away!

The second largest airline in Abu Dhabi is allowing travellers to book a well-deserved vacation to discover hidden gems, savour delicious dishes from nearby spots and explore the history of charming neighbourhoods. The exciting promotion during the busy travel period offers travellers affordable, hassle-free travel opportunities and incredible value for money.

Johan Eidhagen, Managing Director of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, said: “As the flagbearer for ultra-low-cost travel in the region, we are delighted to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan with an extraordinary promotion that enables an exhilarating adventure for all ages. We are committed to spontaneous travel during the busy travel period and beyond as we continue to foster connectivity and create unmissable travel experiences. We strongly encourage all adventurous travellers to secure their bookings early to enjoy the lowest fares to a plethora of incredible destinations. We look forward to welcoming you on board our aircraft soon.”

Passengers can book tickets with confidence, thanks to WIZZ Flex. With WIZZ Flex, passengers can change their flight up to three hours before departure without any fee and receive 100% of the fare immediately reimbursed in airline credit.

Strategically located in the UAE, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi provides ultra-low-fares and efficient travel options to Alexandria (Egypt), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Amman (Jordan), Ankara (Turkey), Aqaba (Jordan), Athens (Greece), Baku (Azerbaijan), Belgrade (Serbia), Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Cairo (Egypt) and Dammam (Saudi Arabia). As well as routes to Kuwait City (Kuwait), Kutaisi (Georgia), Larnaca (Cyprus), Male (Maldives), Madinah (Saudi Arabia), Muscat (Oman), Nur Sultan (Kazakhstan), Salalah (Oman), Santorini (Greece), Samarkand (Uzbekistan), Sarajevo (Bosnia), Sohag (Egypt), Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Turkistan (Kazakhstan), Tirana (Albania) and Yerevan (Armenia) among others.

*One-way price, including administration fee. One carry-on bag (max: 40x30x20cm) is included. Trolley bag and each piece of checked-in baggage is subject to additional fees. The price applies only to bookings made on wizzair.com and the WIZZ mobile app. Number of seats at indicated prices are limited.

ICAEW and SOCPA: Strengthening Anti-Money Laundering Vigilance in Saudi Financial System

ICAEW and SOCPA: Strengthening Anti-Money Laundering Vigilance in Saudi Financial System
ICAEW and SOCPA: Strengthening Anti-Money Laundering Vigilance in Saudi Financial System

20 March 2024: The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Saudi Organisation for Chartered and Professional Accountants (SOCPA) have urged chartered accountants in the Kingdom to elevate their professional scepticism in the ongoing battle against money laundering.

 

In a recent joint webinar addressing the pressing issue of Anti-Money Laundering (AML), ICAEW and SOCPA aimed to guide organisations on how to navigate their anti-money laundering compliance obligations. The distinguished panel included:

 

  • Ahmed Abdullah Al-Meghames, CEO of SOCPA
  • Abdularahman Alshabib, Senior Supervisor at SAMA
  • Hanadi Khalife, Head of Middle East at ICAEW
  • Duncan Wiggetts, Chief Officer of the Professional Standards Department at ICAEW
  • Michelle Giddings, Head of Anti-Money Laundering at ICAEW

 

The expert panel highlighted the increased vulnerability of KSA to financial crimes due to its importance in international trade and finance, stressing the crucial role played by the public and private sectors in combatting this threat. Vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious business activities were emphasised as key components of an effective anti-money laundering strategy.

 

ICAEW’s award-winning training film ‘All Too Familiar’, produced in collaboration with the UK’s HM Revenue and Customs, was screened during the event. The film delves into the dynamics of trust in personal and professional relationships, prompting reflections on whether trust alone can effectively combat economic crime. The objective was to challenge perspectives and foster discussions on the necessity for increased professional scepticism when facing potential money laundering risks.

 

Dr. Ahmed Abdullah Al-Meghames, CEO of SOCPA, said: “Combatting money laundering is an integral mission for SOCPA as we strive to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct in the Saudi financial sector. Through joint initiatives like these, we can equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and report suspicious activity, ultimately safeguarding the Kingdom’s financial system and promoting sustainable economic growth.”

Hanadi Khalife, Head of Middle East at ICAEW, said: “Accountants are the key gatekeepers for the financial system, facilitating vital transactions that underpin the economy. As such, we have a significant role in ensuring our services are not used to further a criminal purpose. Our job is to help organisations recognise, prevent, and report money laundering.”

– ENDS –

 

Media enquiries:

Tarik Raouf, Mojo PR, on +971 (0)55 930 9272 or email tarik@mojo-me.com

 

 

Notes to editors:

 

About ICAEW

Chartered accountants are talented, ethical and committed professionals. ICAEW represents more than 202,000 members and students around the world.

 

Founded in 1880, ICAEW has a long history of serving the public interest, and we continue to work with governments, regulators and business leaders globally. And as a world-leading improvement regulator, we supervise and monitor over 12,000 firms, holding them and all ICAEW members and students to the highest standards of professional competency and conduct.

 

We promote inclusivity, diversity and fairness and we give talented professionals the skills and values they need to build resilient businesses, economies and societies, while ensuring our planet’s resources are managed sustainably.

 

ICAEW is the first major professional body to be carbon neutral, demonstrating our commitment to tackle climate change and supporting UN Sustainable Development Goal 13.

 

ICAEW is a founding member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW), a global family that connects over 1.8m chartered accountants and students in more than 190 countries. Together, we support, develop and promote the role of chartered accountants as trusted business leaders, difference makers and advisers.

 

We believe that chartered accountancy can be a force for positive change. By sharing our insight, expertise and understanding we can help to create sustainable economies and a better future for all.

EFG Holding Shatters Records with EGP 14.7 Billion in Revenues, Fueled by Stellar Performance From EFG Hermes, Valu, and aiBANK

EFG Holding Shatters Records with EGP 14.7 Billion in Revenues, Fueled by Stellar Performance From EFG Hermes, Valu, and aiBANK
EFG Holding Shatters Records with EGP 14.7 Billion in Revenues, Fueled by Stellar Performance From EFG Hermes, Valu, and aiBANK

Revenue Growth Reported by the Three Verticals Underpinned the Group’s Net Profit After Tax and Minority Interest, Up 39% Y-o-Y to Reach EGP 2.5 Billion

Cairo, 20 March 2024

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 2023. The Group booked its highest-ever recorded revenues of EGP 14.7 billion, representing a 34% Year-on-Year growth, fueled by the stellar performance of its Investment Bank’s (EFG Hermes) sell-side and buy-side, Valu, and its commercial bank arm, aiBANK.

EFG Holding operating expenses rose 35% Y-o-Y on higher employee expenses and other G&A, particularly at EFG Hermes, followed by aiBANK, and higher provisions and ECL across EFG Finance’s lines of business and aiBANK. In terms of profitability, the Group’s net operating profit increased 32% Y-o-Y to EGP 4.9 billion. Meanwhile, net profit rose 47% Y-o-Y to EGP 3.2 billion in FY23, driven primarily by Brokerage, Asset Management, Valu, and aiBANK’s growth in profitability. Meanwhile, the Group’s net profit after tax and minority interest came in at EGP 2.5 billion, up 39% Y-o-Y, and the Group’s total assets stood at EGP 121.9 billion at the end of December 2023.

Karim Awad, Group CEO of EFG Holding, reflected on the Group’s performance, stating, “The exceptional performance of EFG Holding in 2023 stands as a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication in navigating challenging economic conditions, our steadfast commitment to excellence, and our strategic foresight. With our unprecedented revenues and impressive profitability, we continue to set the standard in the financial industry in the MENA region, providing value and fostering growth across our diverse range of services. The record-breaking financial results, driven by the remarkable contributions of EFG Hermes and aiBANK, underscores the strength of our strategic vision that revolutionized our business model years ago, as well as our enduring commitment to delivering excellence to our clients, shareholders, and communities. Our dedication to innovation and sustainable growth remains resolute.”

On the investment bank side of the house, EFG Hermes had a strong year, with its revenues rising 32% Y-o-Y to EGP 8.1 billion in FY23, driven primarily by its core operations, the sell-side, and the buy-side. Sell-side revenues grew 51% to EGP 3.8 billion, lifted by Brokerage revenues. While Investment Banking revenues were essentially flat Y-o-Y, inching down 2% Y-o-Y, Brokerage revenues shot up 73% Y-o-Y, underpinned mainly by Brokerage Egypt’s strong executions.

Meanwhile, the buy-side’s revenues leaped 75% Y-o-Y to close the year at EGP 1.3 billion; mainly driven by robust growth in the Asset Management business, with the Asset Management revenues surpassing the EGP 1.0 billion mark in FY23 versus EGP 553 million in FY22, driven by higher incentive and management fees booked by FIM Partners and higher incentive fees booked by Egypt’s Asset Management. Meanwhile, Private Equity revenues increased 44% Y-o-Y to EGP 246 million in FY23 on higher management fees.

The Investment Bank net profit after tax and minority interest increased 20% to record EGP 1.6 billion compared to EGP 1.3 billion in FY22.

Revenues at EFG Finance, the Group’s Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFI) platform, rose 17% Y-o-Y to reach EGP 3.0 billion in FY23, underpinned by Valu, which drove the NBFI’s top and bottom line in FY23, with its revenues spiraling up 78% Y-o-Y to EGP 1.2 billion in FY23. Operating expenses rose 17% Y-o-Y to EGP 2.3 billion, driven primarily by higher Provisions & ECL.

 

This was followed by EFG Corp-Solutions reporting higher revenues, with revenues from the Leasing side of the business rising 23% Y-o-Y to EGP 363 million and the Factoring side adding 45% Y-o-Y to EGP 120 million. Meanwhile, Tanmeyah’s revenues declined 14% Y-o-Y to EGP 1.3 billion, while Fatura reported higher revenues, up 45% Y-o-Y, as Fatura’s acquisition was completed in June 2022. Furthermore, net profit after tax and minority interest rose 51% Y-o-Y to EGP 349 million on strong growth in profits reported by Valu.

 

aiBANK experienced a robust year, as the Bank saw its revenues soar 61% Y-o-Y to EGP 3.6 billion in FY23, driven by higher net interest income on the back of loan book growth. Moreover, Fees & commissions increased more than three times, largely on higher trade finance activities. The Bank’s net profit after tax more than doubled, up 117% Y-o-Y to EGP 1.1 billion (of which the Group’s share is EGP 591 million) in FY23, reflecting the Bank’s resilient growth in operations.

“With Egypt’s market taking a pivotal turn following the recent floatation, EFG Holding looks ahead with optimism towards our future endeavors. Our robust balance sheet has been strategically hedged to withstand the fluctuations in the EGP, while our expanding regional operations consistently yield considerable USD revenues annually. These factors, combined with the promising growth trajectories of Valu, aiBANK, and Tanmeyah, instill in us a growing sense of confidence in the resilience and efficacy of the business model we have diligently built. We are increasingly assured of our ability to not only weather challenges but also to drive sustained profitability and create value for shareholders, clients, and communities” concluded Awad.

EFG Holding’s FY23 financial results and management’s commentary are available on the Firm’s website.

EFG Hermes Concludes Advisory on Cenomi Retail’s Sale of a Portfolio of Fashion Brands to Abdullah Al-Othaim Fashion

EFG Hermes Concludes Advisory on Cenomi Retail’s Sale of a Portfolio of Fashion Brands to Abdullah Al-Othaim Fashion
EFG Hermes Concludes Advisory on Cenomi Retail’s Sale of a Portfolio of Fashion Brands to Abdullah Al-Othaim Fashion

EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding Company and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), announced today that it concluded advisory on a merger and acquisition (M&A) deal for Cenomi Retail, the largest franchise retailer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The retail giant has agreed to sell a select portfolio of brands to Abdullah Al-Othaim Fashion Company, a fully owned subsidiary of Abdullah Al-Othaim Investment Company.

As part of the agreement, Cenomi Retail had reached a definitive share purchase agreement with Abdullah Al-Othaim Fashion Company for the acquisition of 100% of the share capital of Innovative Outfit Trading Company, a Cenomi Retail subsidiary holding the franchise rights for the 16 brands involved in the deal in December 2023, which closed in February 2024 after obtaining the required approvals and completing the agreed-upon commercial and regulatory conditions.

Abdullah Silsilah, Director, Investment Banking at EFG Hermes, said, “We are immensely proud to have played a pivotal role in seamless execution of this transaction. Marking our second transaction in the Kingdom’s retail space in 2024, this not only perfectly aligns with our strategic objectives of bolstering our footprint in Saudi Arabia, but also underscores our commitment to showcasing the nation’s vast potential across various sectors.”

This transaction is a significant milestone in Cenomi Retail’s ongoing transformation program, aligning with its strategy to focus on Champion brands within the Fashion, Electronics, and Food & Beverage categories.

EFG Hermes acted as the sell-side advisor to Cenomi Retail on the transaction, while the legal advisor was Clyde & Co. The legal advisor for Al Othaim was Latham & Watkins.