Misr Digital Innovation (MDI) has achieved PCI DSS v4.0.1 certification, making it the first in the market to receive the latest version. This certification strengthens MDI’s cybersecurity measures and ensures the highest standards of data protection, enhancing customer trust and positioning the company as a leader in digital banking security.
Mastercard has partnered with Mashreq to launch a digital bank in Pakistan, aiming to drive digital payment adoption, financial inclusion, and economic growth. This collaboration will enhance service delivery, improve security, and support the development of Pakistan’s digital financial ecosystem. The partnership aligns with Pakistan’s Vision 2025 transformation goals.
Kuwait International Bank (KIB) has launched “Fast Transfer,” a new international remittance service in collaboration with Visa. Available through KIB’s mobile banking app, the service offers instant, transparent, and fee-free transfers to 40 international destinations. This service enhances KIB’s position as a leader in digital banking innovation in Kuwait.
Egypt’s financial inclusion rate reached 74.8% by the end of 2024, with 52 million citizens using transaction accounts. This growth is attributed to efforts in empowering women, youth, and entrepreneurs with accessible financial services. It aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and aims to promote economic empowerment and digital banking.
Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has partnered with Al Mana Group to launch the Auto Marketplace, a platform integrated into the QIB Mobile App. This initiative offers customers a seamless car buying experience, including vehicle browsing, test drives, and financing—all digitally, simplifying the entire process.
Bank Nizwa has partnered with Network International to enhance fraud prevention and digital banking security. The collaboration integrates a comprehensive fraud management system to protect customer transactions and ensure operational resilience. This move supports Oman’s digital transformation goals and strengthens Bank Nizwa’s commitment to secure and innovative banking solutions.
Affinity Africa has raised $8 million in seed funding to expand its digital banking services in Ghana. With over 50,000 customers, the startup focuses on financial inclusion, offering free savings accounts and credit services. The hybrid model blends digital banking with offline agents to drive user adoption in underserved communities.
Khazna, an Egyptian fintech startup, has raised $16 million in pre-Series B funding, bringing its total funding to over $63 million. The company provides financial services like salary advances and microloans to low-income workers. It plans to expand into Saudi Arabia and apply for a digital banking license in Egypt.
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.
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.
