Fintech firm Nivo unveils Broker Concierge, an AI-powered assistant that automates broker interactions, streamlining document processing and case structuring. This 24/7 solution helps specialist lenders grow without increasing headcount.

YZi Labs backs Plume Network, a modular blockchain designed for Real World Assets (RWAs). Plume enables seamless tokenization and financial utility for RWAs, bridging DeFi and traditional finance.

iCapital partners with Aviva Investors to enhance private wealth access to climate transition investments via a Luxembourg-based feeder fund, leveraging iCapital’s distribution and technology capabilities to drive net-zero investment opportunities in private markets.

ICD and Asia Alliance Bank have signed a $25M Islamic financing facility to support SME growth in Uzbekistan. This initiative strengthens their partnership and aligns with ICD’s mission to boost private sector development and economic resilience.

In an era of information overload, storytelling remains a powerful tool for scaling businesses. Leaders who craft compelling narratives align stakeholders, drive engagement, and create lasting impact—proving that data alone isn’t enough to win.

Unravel, the "TikTok of Travel," raised $7M in Series A to expand its AI-powered video commerce platform. Backed by top investors, it enables banks, airlines, and telcos to transform travel discovery into seamless bookings. Expansion into Europe and the UK is underway.

iSON Xperiences and Aistra announce a strategic partnership to revolutionize customer experience through AI-driven automation, predictive analytics, and digital transformation across industries like Telecom, Fintech, Retail, and more.

The Milken Institute and Motsepe Foundation have announced three finalists for the $1M Milken-Motsepe Prize in FinTech, recognizing innovative financial solutions for small businesses in emerging markets. The winner will be revealed at the 2025 Milken Institute Global Conference.

Emirates renews its partnership with TUI Cruises, enhancing Dubai’s position as a leading cruise hub. The collaboration aligns air travel with maritime journeys, ensuring seamless connectivity and expanded cruise operations for the 2025/2026 season.

Orange Middle East and Africa teams up with Eutelsat to deploy satellite internet across remote regions in Africa and the Middle East, enhancing digital inclusion with high-speed connectivity.

DXC Technology and ServiceNow expand their partnership to modernize insurance operations with AI-driven workflows, reducing manual processes by up to 40%. The new DXC Assure BPM solution enhances efficiency, customer experience, and policy lifecycle management.

Wyndham Rewards introduces a first-of-its-kind debit card, allowing travelers to earn points on everyday purchases. Benefits include hotel discounts, free nights, Gold membership perks, and waived fees. Ideal for Gen Z and debt-free lifestyle travelers.

During the FutureTech Dialogues, presented by Dubai AI Festival and organised by Dubai AI Campus in partnership with DIFC, industry leaders gathered to dissect the rapidly advancing world of artificial intelligence, offering sharp insights into how generative and agentic AI are set to reshape workplace productivity and operational strategies.

GlobalLogic's VelocityAI suite integrates AI, digital, and human expertise to help businesses scale AI solutions, improve productivity, and drive impactful outcomes across industries.

Compu Dynamics’ CEO Steve Altizer and VP Rob Morgan received the Patriot Award from ESGR, recognizing their commitment to supporting employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve, reinforcing the company’s dedication to military personnel in the data center industry.

In a world of echo chambers and information overload, leaders must engage strategically. By focusing on Relevance, Real-time adaptation, and Reach, brands can break through the noise, build trust, and connect with audiences who might otherwise tune out.

Kyoto Network and G6T Group are launching a project to develop waste-to-value plants in the UAE, focusing on carbon dioxide removal and regenerative agriculture to drive green growth and tackle global food security challenges.

Binance partners with TOKEN2049, returning to Dubai from April 30 - May 1, 2025. The Binance Clubhouse at Madinat Jumeirah will host networking, insightful talks, and experiences, fostering Web3 adoption and blockchain innovation.

Dubai AI Festival 2025, held on April 23-24 at Madinat Jumeirah, will bring together global AI leaders to explore advancements, investments, and responsible AI deployment, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a leader in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

Asset Token Ventures (ATV) introduces MBSToken™, a blockchain-powered solution offering institutional investors enhanced liquidity, transparency, and efficiency in mortgage-backed securities. This marks a major step in fixed-income market digitization.

Calculus Group partners with HRDS INDIA in a ₹1000 crore AI-driven initiative to transform rural India, introducing smart sanitation, IoT infrastructure, and sustainable ecosystems, impacting over 7 crore families and advancing India's Vision 2047.

At MWC 2025, Alipay+ and Whale Cloud announced an extended partnership to enhance digital payment solutions and super apps worldwide. The collaboration will focus on Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, driving digital transformation for businesses and consumers.

In this episode of Born to Disrupt, Oliver Blume, Managing Director at Bridgemaker Gulf, joins the hosts to discuss the rise of venture building in the Middle East. He shares insights into how structured venture creation is helping corporates, governments, and family offices innovate and diversify, especially in a rapidly evolving regional landscape. The conversation explores the role of AI, talent, and long-term thinking in building sustainable businesses, and why the Gulf is uniquely positioned to leapfrog traditional innovation models through collaboration, adaptability, and strategic government support.

SGTI, backed by major global organizations, aims to redefine trade with ethical, resilient, and inclusive practices. The initiative tackles geopolitical tensions, ESG concerns, and economic sustainability, setting a vision for 100% fair and transparent supply chains by 2050.

Lloyds Banking Group’s 12-week Launch Innovation programme returns in 2025, offering start-ups expert guidance and a chance to run commercial experiments. Applications are open from March 3 to April 4, welcoming innovators from all industries.

Zelostech’s fully electric autonomous delivery vehicle wins DHL’s Fast Forward Challenge in the Middle East & Africa, advancing urban logistics sustainability. The startup plans expansion into the UAE and GCC after success in China and Singapore.

Malaysian startup Arus Oil, backed by 1337 Ventures, is transforming waste into renewable energy. With over 2 million kilograms of used cooking oil recycled, its innovative approach is reshaping Malaysia’s sustainability landscape.

Ecobank strengthens its "Ellevate" program to support women entrepreneurs across Africa, offering increased financing, training, and networking opportunities. With expanded access to unsecured loans and business tools, the initiative aims to bridge the gender financing gap.

NymCard raises $33M in Series B funding led by QED Investors, accelerating its fintech expansion across MENA with cutting-edge payment solutions for banks, fintechs, and enterprises.

LEAP 2025 showcased Saudi Arabia’s commitment to financial technology and digital transformation, playing host to experts and organisations sharing their latest accomplishments and innovative ideas. One conversation that stood out to us was with Mark Dickinson, chief technology officer, Neo Space Group (NSG).