Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Halan Microfinance Bank, expanding into Pakistan, plans to enhance financial inclusion through digital and microfinance services. With a focus on underserved communities, the company aims to provide unsecured loans, vehicle financing, and Shariah-compliant products. Halan has already acquired Advance Microfinance Bank and plans to double its customer base in Pakistan.
Akurateco has partnered with DineroPay to advance mobile payments in Saudi Arabia, launching Apple Pay and Google Pay tailored to the local market. The collaboration focuses on secure, scalable solutions with network tokenization and full compliance with Saudi regulations, positioning both companies at the forefront of digital financial innovation in MENA.
Akurateco and DineroPay have partnered to advance mobile payments in Saudi Arabia. By implementing Apple Pay, Google Pay, and network tokenization technology, the collaboration aims to enhance security and scalability in mobile transactions, aligning with regulatory requirements and supporting the region’s transition toward digital-first financial solutions.
Easypaisa has become Pakistan’s first digital retail bank after receiving commercial approval from the State Bank of Pakistan. Supported by Telenor and Alipay, Easypaisa has evolved from a mobile wallet service to a full-fledged digital bank, with 50 million registered users and a significant role in the country’s financial inclusion.
Paymob has partnered with Woo to integrate its payment solutions into the WooCommerce marketplace, providing merchants in MENA with access to over 50 payment methods. The collaboration aims to streamline e-commerce operations by offering mobile-optimized checkout, fast payment processing, and enhanced security features, supporting the region’s e-commerce growth.
Easypaisa has become Pakistan’s first Digital Retail Bank after receiving approval from the State Bank of Pakistan. This transition from a microfinance bank to a digital bank marks a significant milestone in the country’s financial services landscape, offering comprehensive banking solutions entirely online to millions of Pakistanis.
SAMA has partnered with Google to integrate Google Pay into Saudi Arabia’s national payments network, mada. The move supports Saudi Vision 2030 by advancing digital payments and promoting a less-cash-dependent society.
Bangladesh is leading mobile money adoption in South Asia, with bKash driving growth in financial inclusion. The GSMA report highlights the country’s 18% annual growth in mobile money users, and bKash’s significant contributions to the global mobile money sector, especially in remittances.
Morocco has launched the Morocco Fintech Center (MFC) to support fintech startups and enhance its digital economy. The center will offer mentoring, business incubation, and regulatory guidance, aiming to foster the growth of 1,000 certified startups by 2026 and 3,000 by 2030, with a target of raising $696.6 million by 2030.
Paymob has secured a full operating license from the UAE’s Central Bank, boosting its growth potential in the region. The company plans to expand its team and take advantage of the UAE’s standardized infrastructure and instant payment platform, Aani, to streamline merchant onboarding and offer instant settlement for payments.