Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Azerbaijan and the UAE are deepening financial cooperation through knowledge-sharing on digital public finance solutions. During a visit to Dubai, Azerbaijani officials explored UAE best practices in data-driven finance management, electronic tax systems, digital contracting, and treasury platforms to support the modernization of Azerbaijan’s public finance framework.
Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Finance delegation visited the UAE to advance a financial cooperation agreement and explore the adoption of digital financial solutions. The UAE Ministry of Finance showcased global best practices in data-driven public finance management, digital tax systems, PPP models, treasury and contracting platforms, and electronic financial controls. Azerbaijan aims to apply these tools to modernize its public finance operations.
Rostro Group has entered the UAE fintech market after receiving a Category 5 licence from the Securities and Commodities Authority. The approval enables the group to expand its institutional and retail trading services across the GCC through its Scope Prime and Scope Markets brands. Backed by a fast-growing fintech ecosystem and strong regulatory support, Rostro’s move reinforces the UAE’s position as the leading fintech hub in the MENA region.
Bangladesh’s cashless payment ecosystem expands rapidly through card usage, apps, and QR payments, driven by infrastructure improvements and growing consumer trust.
stc pay Bahrain sets new standard with geo-redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted, secure mobile wallet services and strengthening its leadership in financial technology.
Flend closes $3 million seed round to expand digital SME lending in Egypt, aiming to close the $50 billion financing gap with embedded finance across key sectors.
Nepal sees rising digital financial engagement despite low mobile money use, with mobile phones driving formal savings and payments. Gender gaps persist, but digital tools increasingly empower women. The World Bank highlights the role of digital finance in economic inclusion and resilience across developing countries.
Iraq’s new MFTA chapter aims to accelerate fintech adoption and regulatory progress, supporting the country’s digital economy and financial inclusion goals under visionary leadership.
Airtel Money Tanzania partners with TCDC to provide mobile payments, affordable smartphones, income credits, and financial education to farmers. The move follows a successful pilot that improved payment transparency and access to financial tools for smallholder farmers.
BENEFIT and Bahrain Clear partner to launch an eIPO service on BenefitPay, streamlining IPO subscriptions for retail investors. Set for Q4 2025, the platform aims to enhance accessibility, security, and transparency, supporting Bahrain’s financial sector development and digital transformation goals.