Jordanian banks hired 2,613 new employees in 2024, half recent graduates, but face a skills mismatch amid digital transformation. The ABJ calls for education reforms and stronger academia-industry partnerships to equip graduates with skills in AI, cybersecurity, and fintech to meet evolving banking demands.
Thndr raised $15.7 million led by Prosus to expand its digital investment platform in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. It launched Thndr Alpha and ThndrX for beginners and professionals and seeks an asset management license in Egypt. Thndr continues to democratize investing for underserved MENA populations.
AL Ahly Momken and Post Distribution CO-PDC have partnered to establish a new branch network across Egypt, promoting financial inclusion and digital transformation. Initial branches in Cairo and Port Said will offer e-wallet, KYC, and payment services, focusing on reaching underserved regions and supporting Egypt’s Vision 2030 goals.
Mastercard strengthens leadership in West Arabia with Saud Swar’s appointment, aiming to expand inclusive digital financial services across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Levant.
Mastercard and LankaPay have partnered to enhance Sri Lanka’s digital economy through three key initiatives: co-branded debit cards, low-cost QR payments for tourists, and AI-powered fraud detection. These efforts aim to improve financial inclusion, support SMEs, and boost tourism-driven revenue, advancing the country’s digital transformation.
FRiENDi Mobile has launched FRiENDi Pay, a mobile wallet service in Oman, enabling local and international money transfers, bill payments, and wallet top-ups. The service also supports remittances to countries like India, Pakistan, and the Philippines. It is fully compliant with Oman’s financial regulations and offers encrypted transactions.
Pakistan’s insurance penetration remains low at 0.8% of GDP, leaving many vulnerable to financial shocks. However, fintech innovations by companies like Jazz and JazzCash are helping bridge the gap, with millions of policies distributed daily. By leveraging digital infrastructure, Pakistan can move closer to universal insurance coverage.
Mastercard has partnered with Bahrain’s Tamkeen to launch the first Mastercard Strive program in the Middle East, aimed at enhancing financial and digital readiness for SMEs in Bahrain. This collaboration will support entrepreneurs by providing access to digital tools, capital, and networks, fostering growth and innovation in Bahrain’s SME sector.
Nqoodlet, a Saudi-based fintech platform, raised $3 million in seed funding to enhance its financial management tools for SMEs in the GCC. The platform helps SMEs streamline operations and achieve significant cost savings, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to foster SME growth and financial inclusion.
Klivvr has received approval from Egypt’s Financial Regulatory Authority to launch its Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) service. The product, integrated into Klivvr’s app, offers flexible credit options for users, providing instant approvals and transparent credit management. This move positions Klivvr as a leader in Egypt’s digital lending market.
