Alexbank, Blu EV to roll out electric two-wheeler financing for gig workers

Alexbank and Orascom Investment Holding’s Blu EV are developing a new microfinancing model to move Egypt’s delivery fleet to electric, which they say can increase riders’ take-home pay by some 35%, according to a joint statement (pdf). The two signed an MoU for the program to provide simplified credit for electric motorcycles, specifically targeting those working in last-mile delivery and the gig economy.

Why it matters: The partnership addresses the primary friction point for commercial EV adoption — high upfront costs. By combining a 0% down payment with 36-month repayment plans and 48-hour credit approvals, the program lowers the barrier to entry for delivery riders and small business owners — who typically lack access to traditional bank credit — to make the move to electric that will ultimately save them money in the long run.

Hassan Allam Properties eyes EGP 14 bn of investments in 2026 + Europe, KSA expansions

Hassan Allam Properties plans to invest EGP 14 billion in investments dedicated to the construction of new and existing projects in 2026, CEO Mohamed Allam said at a presser. Allam explained that the company targets contractual sales ranging between EGP 30 bn and EGP 40 bn during the current year.

The company is also currently studying several projects in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh and Jeddah and in Europe as part of its plan to diversify its investment portfolio, he said. The projects would come in addition to its current eight projects and 4 mn sqm land bank.

TotalEnergies partners with Nissan Egypt to manufacture oils and secure the after-sales market

TotalEnegies will manufacture motor oils branded and designed for Nissan models in Egypt under a strategic partnership signed with the Egyptian arm of the Korean automaker, according to a joint statement (pdf). The move by the country’s largest exporter of passenger vehicles isn’t just about localization — it’s about securing aftermarket sales, with TotalEnergies’ national network of refuelling stations, service centres, and distributors set to carry the product along with a selection of other genuine Nissan spare parts.

Beltone participates in USD 15 mn funding round for Morocco’s Yakeey

Beltone Holding’s Beltone Venture Capital made an undisclosed strategic equity investment in Morocco-based proptech startup Yakeey, as part of the startup’s USD 15 mn Series A round, according to a statement from Beltone. Beltone joined international and regional investors in the round, including the International Finance Corporation, Enza, and 212 Founders.

The move comes as Beltone VC has been ramping up its activity in the Moroccan entrepreneurial landscape as of late — having invested in Moroccan eyewear brand LNKO, exited Moroccan last-mile delivery logistics platform Cathedis, and backed e-bike rental company VelyVelo’s expansion into the country.

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