It is always exciting to read these kinds of announcements from banks because it evidences that the ‘lights are on’ and someone is at home, as the phrase goes – that they are (hopefully_ serious about examining and experimenting with the emerging FinTech ecosystem. So good luck to all at Riyad Bank. More details below. […]
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UAE Banks to Digitize and Partner with Fintechs in Win-Win Plan
This one caught my attention over at Bloomberg:The United Arab Emirates (UAE) banking sector is set to digitize and partner with fintechs in a bid to improve customer experience and increase efficiency. The move is expected to benefit both banks and fintechs, with banks gaining access to innovative technology and fintechs gaining access to a […]
5 Tips for Building a Successful E-Commerce Business (in FinTech)
This one caught my attention over at Entrepreneur:The article discusses how companies can use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve their customer service. It highlights the benefits of using AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants to provide quick and efficient support to customers.Read more
Middle Eastern fintech revolution puts customer at the center
This one caught my attention over at Fintech Futures:The Middle Eastern fintech industry is placing a strong emphasis on customer-centricity, with a focus on providing innovative solutions that meet the needs of consumers. This approach is driving growth and investment in the region’s fintech sector.Read more
DIFC announces $10m for FinTech investments
It’s stimulating to see the different areas in the Middle East begin to focus on the importance of investing in FinTech. Just a little while ago, Bahrain’s FinTech Hub announced it’s own FinTech fund. I’m excited to see the next steps! Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has unveiled its $10 million fintech fund for start-ups […]
Qatar Launches Fintech Hub to Boost Innovation and Growth
This one caught my attention over at Fintech News AE:The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has launched the Qatar Fintech Hub (QFTH) to support the growth of fintech startups in the country. The hub will provide a range of services including mentorship, funding, and access to QFC’s network of financial institutions.Read more
The Central Bank of Kuwait focuses on FinTech
Great to see the country of Kuwait – more specifically their Central Bank – focusing on the growing importance of FinTech, including the all important ‘regulatory sandbox’ (item number 4′ in this story from FinTech Middle East): The Central Bank of Kuwait’s initiatives include the Kuwait National Payment System (KNPS), digital currency infrastructure, a regulatory […]
Qatar partners with B-Hive to setup dedicated FinTech Hub
So now there’s an official hub operating in Qatar dedicated to supporting and developing FinTech! This is exciting! The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has partnered with B-Hive to develop FinTech Industry in Qatar. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, QFC and Wim De Waele, CEO and Managing […]
Bahrain gets serious with $100m FinTech Fund
It’s particularly interesting to see Bahrain’s Government encouraging the development of the FinTech ecosystem in the country. No details yet on specific investment thesis though off the top of my head I’d assume it could well be for seed-style Investements and perhaps Series-A? We shall no doubt see. FinTech Futures: Bahrain to raise $100m for […]
Gulf Robo Adviser Sarwa adds $1.3m funding
It’s encouraging to see the marketplace warming to robo advisors in the Middle East. Sarwa – which launched last year – has raised $1.3m. I’m looking forward to watching their journey! (Note: ‘Sarwa’ means ‘Brilliant’ in Javanese. I’m not sure if that was intentional or not, but either way: Good choice of name!) Dubai: Robo […]