Banking & Finance

Lebanon: World Bank approves $250 million financing to support reconstruction in conflict-affected areas

The conflict in Lebanon is estimated to have caused total direct damages across 10 sectors at $7.2 billion

UAE’s FTA highlights importance of registering for Corporate Tax to benefit from key exemptions

The authority indicated that the exceptional condition for benefitting from the exemption applies only to the first tax period of the entity subject to tax

Addleshaw Goddard strengthens Middle East operations with new office in ADGM

The move marks a significant milestone in Addleshaw Goddard's strategic growth across the Middle East

Saudi Arabia closes June 2025 issuance of sukuk program at $627.8 million

The sukuk issuance was divided into five tranches, each with different maturities and sizes 

UAE issues guidance on process of double taxation relief

The guidance further clarifies the timelines in which taxpayers must make a MAP claim

Emirates NBD highlights UAE’s rise as fintech powerhouse in new PwC report

The report explores key trends shaping the market, including surging digital adoption, expanding venture capital investment, and the integration of AI

Mastercard launches AI-powered account intelligence reissuance service to combat card fraud in EEMEA region

Card fraud costs billions annually, prompting the need for automated and efficient fraud prevention solutions

Saudi Arabia’s PIF launches its first commercial paper program to enhance funding flexibility

The commercial paper program carries credit ratings of P-1 from Moody’s and F1+ from Fitch

Abu Dhabi DoF launches new budget cycle to enhance financial sustainability, strategic alignment

This initiative focuses on transparency, innovation, and excellence in public financial resource management 

How European family offices are reallocating capital towards the UAE

The UAE imposes no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax

Valu welcomes tech giant Amazon as shareholder following Egyptian Exchange debut

The move comes shortly after Valu’s successful listing on the Egyptian Exchange (EGX)

Saudi Arabia’s bank credit hits over $833 billion by April 2025 with 16.5 percent YoY growth

Quarterly growth of 5 percent indicates continued positive momentum in the banking sector for 2025.

Egypt aims for 4.5 percent economic growth as parliament passes FY2025/26 development plan

Real GDP growth is projected to rise from 2.4 percent in FY2023/24 to 3.8 percent in FY2024/25, then to 4.2 percent and 4.6 percent in FY2025/26 and FY2026/27, respectively, according to World Bank projections

Turkey central bank holds interest rates at 46 percent amid geopolitical tensions

Market rates, such as the Turkish Lira Overnight Reference Rate (TLREF), have also aligned in the 46 percent range

OPEC Fund unveils $720 million financing to support global development initiatives in several countries

A $212 million loan with Oman will improve connectivity through the Khasab–Daba–Lima Road Project 

U.S. Treasury to sell $183 billion in bonds this month

Auction results for two-year, five-year, and seven-year notes will be announced next week 

Visa expands stablecoin initiatives in CEMEA, partners with African fintech Yellow Card

Stablecoins are emerging as one of the most promising tools for faster and more accessible digital payments

UAE central bank holds interest rates steady, in line with U.S. Fed

After keeping interest rates in the 4.25-4.50 percent range, Fed policymakers signaled that rate cuts are still likely to happen in 2025

Kuwait, Austria strengthen financial cooperation with signing of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement protocol

The agreement aims to stimulate investment and provide legal protection for investors in both nations 

UAE strengthens position as global leader in Islamic finance and halal industry

The UAE aims to increase halal exports to AED 315 billion by 2031 under the new national plan

ADGM appoints Rashed Al Blooshi as CEO of the Registration Authority

Al Blooshi will oversee registration, licensing, and supervision of non-financial businesses within ADGM

How regulation and innovation are positioning the UAE as a global leader in emerging market investments

An efficient combination of regulatory foresight, digital innovation, rising liquidity, and strong foreign direct investment has positioned the UAE as a leading destination for emerging market investments

Seviora: Connecting opportunities between Asia and the Middle East

Temasek-owned asset management group sets up Abu Dhabi office for regional expansion, collaboration initiatives

U.S. tariff revenue rises 270 percent, posts record $23 billion in May 2025

U.S. customs duties surged to a record high, contributing to a reduction in the budget deficit.