More stablecoin plays. PLUS: Optimism is the dominant theme at day one of Dubai Capital Market Summit

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WHAT WE’RE TRACKING TODAY

THIS MORNING: EU antitrust regulators set to give their OK to Adnoc for Covestro takeover + Fed likely to keep rates unchanged at meeting today

Good morning, friends, and happy first hump day of May. It’s a busy week on the conference front, but not so much in terms of news, with only one big story from Abu Dhabi’s Promax as it launches a JV with Palm Global for a digital investment platform and a stablecoin. Plus: We have more earnings reports for you, this time from International Holding Company, Adnoc Distribution, Burjeel, and HSBC.

ALSO- Topping our newswell this morning is our takeaway from day one of the Dubai Capital Market Summit, where economists, equity strategists, analysts, and top company executives are gathering to talk about the road ahead for capital markets in the UAE — both this year amid global headwinds like tariffs, and further down the line.

Taking place one day after Dubai Holding announced plans to take a stake in its Dubai Residential REIT to market, the dominant theme was that of optimism and strong appetite — from local, regional, and global investors and players alike. Fast-growing unicorns like Tabby and Kitopi are staying the course on their IPO plans — with the former eyeing one in the next 12-18 months and Kitopi looking to hit the bourse in 2-3 years — while global investors are bullish on the UAE — saying it is still under-represented in global portfolios. We have more from day one in the news well, below.

🌬️WEATHER- It’s going to be a windy and dusty day, according to our favorite weather app and the National Center of Meteorology, which expects gusts of wind and blowing dust to impact visibility. Dubai will see daytime highs of around 35°C today, dipping to 29°C overnight. Abu Dhabi will be a touch cooler, with highs of 30°C and nighttime lows of around 27°C.

WATCH THIS SPACE-

#1- EU antitrust regulators set to give their OK to Adnoc for Covestro takeover: Adnoc is reportedly on track to secure unconditional approval from EU antitrust regulators for its proposed takeover of German chemicals giant Covestro, Reuters reports, citing two people it says have knowledge of the matter. Sources said the European Commission doesn’t see any reason to object to the acquisition because of the absence of competitive overlap between the two firms. The EUR 14.7 bn transaction — expected to close in 2H — would mark the largest acquisition of a European company by a Middle Eastern buyer in 16 years. Once completed, Adnoc’s new low-carbon energy investment arm XRG will become a majority shareholder in Covestro.

The wait won’t be long: EU competition watchdogs will decide on the takeover’s fate next week, with a final verdict due Monday, 12 May, after which the transaction could still be subject to a four-month investigation depending on the results of the preliminary review. Regulatory clearances from countries where Covestro operates have already started pouring in, while Covestro also said it is confident it will receive all the approvals before the deadline in an emailed statement to Reuters.

#2- Mubadala Capital-backed TWG Global eyes AI-driven acquisitions, AI platform with xAI: TWG Global, the investment vehicle of b'naires Thomas Tull and Mark Walter, is targeting major acquisitions and AI-driven investments across financial services, sports, and defense, the Financial Times reports. The firm is nearing the completion of its USD 15 bn equity raise, which includes a USD 10 bn syndicated investment from Mubadala Capital.

Background: The company — founded by Guggenheim Partners’ Mark Walter and financier Thomas Tull — pooled together USD 40 bn in personal investments from its founders, including stakes in sports teams Chelsea FC and the Los Angeles Dodgers, as well as Guggenheim and fast-growing startups in defense and cyber security. The recently secured outside capital will now support its plans to make acquisitions based on AI-driven insights, according to Tull.

TWG is also preparing to launch an AI platform designed to help banks and ins. firms process and analyze vast amounts of financial data, developed in partnership with Elon Musk’s xAI and data intelligence company Palantir.

ICYMI- TWG Global acquired a 5% stake in Mubadala Capital for USD 2.5 bn, with plans to increase this stake as the partnership evolves. The company is also targeting an additional USD 20 bn in long-term capital commitments to further strengthen the partnership.

#3- State oil giant Adnoc’s maiden USD 1.5 bn sukuk is now listed on the London Stock Exchange, state news agency Wam reports. The 10-year Sharia-compliant trust certificate raised USD 1.5 bn for general corporate purposes was priced at a 4.75% annual profit rate, and matures on 6 May 2035. The issuance saw strong demand from global Islamic investors and drew USD 3.85 bn in orders. Adnoc Murban also raised USD 4 bn in June 2024 from a three-tranche bond issuance under its global medium-term note program.

#4- The UAE now aims to increase Islamic bank assets to AED 2.6 tn within six years, up from AED 986 bn currently, and boost the value of sukuk issued and listed on UAE exchanges, as part of a strategy approved by the Cabinet yesterday, according to a statement. The strategy aims to raise the value of local sukuk issuance to over AED 660 bn within the same time frame, and international sukuk listed in the UAE to AED 395 bn.

#4- Ewec opens newest CEC auction: Ewec has opened up registration for its 2Q 2025 Clean Energy Certificates auction, Wam reports. The auction for CECs — tradable clean energy tracking digital certificates representing 1 MWh of clean energy delivered to the electricity grid from a renewable energy source — will accept submissions until 13 June.

REFRESHER- The CECs include wind energy CECs after Ewec debuted the certificates in 3Q 2024. They were also included in the company’s 4Q 2024 auction.

#5- Turk Mart to follow Bharat Mart: DP World is currently developing a market for Turkish traders — Turk Mart — which will be built on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road adjacent to Dubai’s Expo City, CEO and managing director Abdulla bin Damithan told Khaleej Times. The Turkish market takes inspiration from the upcoming market for Indian traders, Bharat Mart, which is poised to be operational by 2026 and slated to operate at full capacity by 2027. The two markets will be located alongside the Yiwu Market — a 200k sqm site designated for Chinese traders composed of 1.6k showrooms, open since 2022.

Background: Dubai-based port operator DP World kickstarted the development of Bharat Mart — a warehousing and trading hub designed for Indian MSMEs — in April.

DATA POINT-

Members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce saw its exports and re-exports climb 16.8% y-o-y to AED 86 bn in 1Q 2025, it said in a statement. The chamber issued over 204k certificates of origin, up 7% y-o-y, and 1.6k ATA carnets — temporary import-export documents offering exemptions from tax and customs duties for one year — for goods worth AED 984 mn. Some 18.2k companies joined the chamber in the quarter.

Looking globally: The chamber also helped 28 local firms expand internationally — up 75% y-o-y — and reviewed 10 laws with 55% of private sector recommendations adopted. Two new business councils — with Indonesia and Hungary — were launched in the quarter.

HAPPENING TODAY-

#1- The US Federal Reserve’s is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged in its meeting today, despite weeks of scrutiny from US President Donald Trump over the Fed’s monetary policy direction, Reuters reports. We’ll have an update on the decision — and the Central Bank of the UAE’s move, likely the same due to the peg to the USD, following the decision — in tomorrow’s issue.

#2- The Capital Market Summit will wrap up today at Madinat Jumeriah in Dubai. The summit addresses IPO growth, global economic forecasts, and digital assets’ role in financial markets. Speakers include UAE ministers and DFM Chairman Helal Saeed Al Marri, and sessions will analyze stock exchange dynamics, virtual assets, and growth capital strategies.

#3- The Airport Show, taking place alongside the Global Airport Leaders Forum, will wrap up tomorrow at Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC). The events will bring together airport and aviation industry professionals to discuss the latest trends in airport infrastructure, emerging technologies, and solutions to industry challenges.

#4- Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East is also on its final leg today at DWTC. The event will bring together professionals in shipping, logistics, and supply chain management to discuss and debate industry challenges and the latest innovations.

#5- Gulf Information Security Expo & Conference (GISEC Global) is wrapping up today at DWTC. Cybersecurity experts will meet to discuss industry challenges including new cyber threats, security technologies, and solutions for protecting businesses against cyberattacks. Over 750 cybersecurity brands will exhibit their solutions.

#6- The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) is leading a delegation of senior officials and business leaders to Japan from yesterday until Friday, 9 May, according to the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The five-day visit aims to explore possibilities for more investment cooperation, and expand trade and industrial ties. A trade and economic partnership agreement between the two sides is expected to be finalized later this year.

The delegation: UAE government officials and Emirati private sector representatives will participate in several events in Tokyo and Osaka, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) and Abu Dhabi-Tokyo Business Forum. The delegation will be looking to deepen cooperation with Japan in clean energy, hydrogen, AI, life sciences, and next-generation technologies, the statement said.

THE BIG STORY ABROAD-

It’s all about conflicts escalating (and de-escalating) in the global press this morning.

Tensions are flaring on the Indian-Pakistani border, with Delhi mounting targeted aerial attacks against what it called “terrorist sites” inside Pakistan and the Kashmir province, killing 8 and injuring dozens. The attacks have been framed as a retaliation against deadly terrorist attacks that hit India last month.

Pakistani military officials said they shot down five Indian planes in response, and that troops are exchanging fire along the ceasefire line in Kashmir.

Several airlines, including UAE flag carrier Emirates and Flydubai, have delayed or canceled flights to and from India and Pakistan following the attacks, Gulf News reports.

CLOSER TO HOME- Oman said in a surprise announcement it brokered a ceasefire last night between Yemen’s Houthis and the US, shortly after US President Trump confirmed strikes on the Houthis will stop in return for an end to attacks on US ships in the Red Sea. The ceasefire apparently blindsided Israel, just hours after waging airstrikes that took Yemen’s main airport out of service.

Trump also hinted at a “very, very big announcement” ahead of his scheduled trip to the Middle East next week, stopping short of providing any details but saying it’s “really positive.”

The teaser came during a tense-but-civil meeting in the Oval Office with Canadian PM Mark Carney, where Carney assured Canada is “not for sale,” to which the Donald responded, “time will tell.” The meeting aimed to bridge differences on tariffs and trade.

SPEAKING OF TRADE- US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is heading to Switzerland this week for the first officially confirmed trade negotiations with China, sparking hopes of de-escalation between the world’s two largest economies.

ALSO WORTH READING THIS MORNING-

Drone attacks by Sudanese paramilitary RSF on key infrastructure left Port Sudan without power. The widespread attacks also targeted army bases and fuel depots.
Conservative leader Friedrich Merz was elected Chancellor yesterday, needing a second round of voting after his loose coalition in the German parliament failed to secure enough votes in the first round.

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CIRCLE YOUR CALENDAR-

IntegrateMiddle East will be running between Tuesday, 13 May and Thursday, 15 May at the Dubai World Trade Center. The event will showcase advancements in audio-visual technology and media for the broadcasting, communications, and entertainment industries.

Check out our full calendar on the web for a comprehensive listing of upcoming news events, national holidays and news triggers.

Tariff anxiety gives way to optimism at Dubai Capital Market Summit

Cautious optimism? What cautious optimism? It’s almost exactly one month since we were at the first gathering of investment bankers, global fund and portfolio managers, analysts, and top company execs after US President Donald Trump’s so-called “liberation day” out of Dubai — and at a different gathering of a similar crowd of people just one month later, the mood has shifted pretty significantly. What was then a broad sense of “cautious optimism” has now turned into sheer optimism around the prospects for the Dubai, UAE, and even GCC, economy against the backdrop of a shifting world order.

At the EFG Hermes One on One, analysts and bankers were weighing the risks facing the region against the strong fundamentals it has developed over the past few years. Yesterday, at the Dubai Capital Market Summit, global economists and analysts were listing all the ways in which Dubai can come out of the ongoing trade wars a winner.

As one local business mogul put it: “Turmoil provides opportunity for the region… we’re smaller… and we’re on the sidelines, while the rest of the world fights it off,” Group CEO of Gargash Group Shehab Gargash said at a panel.

The fundamentals are strong, and so is the momentum: The UAE’s “openness to trade and capital and people” and the structural changes it has made in the past five years provides it with strong buffers against external shocks, Simon Williams, HSBC’s chief economist for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, said at a separate panel. This means that rather than leading to negative knock-on effects, “weaker oil prices and trade changes are a backdrop that will highlight Dubai’s strengths,” Williams added.

The UAE is also doing a good job maintaining relationships with both the US and China, which will be an advantage for its own position as a trade hub, and both Williams and Dean of London Business School and economist Sergei Guriev see it continuing to tow the line.

It’s also emerging as a safe haven while traditional safe haven assets — like the USD — are facing volatility. The Dubai Financial Market was among the top performing large global markets since Liberation Day, said Aloke Gupte, managing director and co-head of International equity capital markets at JP Morgan, at one of the panels. The DFM General Index saw the highest monthly gain in the GCC with a 4.1% uptick, ending the quarter up 2.9% up YTD, while the ADX recorded a 1.8% uptick.

Appetite for IPOs is also already returning after a quiet 1Q that saw no listings in Dubai and only one in Abu Dhabi. Dubai Holding is taking a 12.5% stake in its Dubai Residential REIT to market this month.

And analysts see IPO momentum from last year — which saw Dubai play host to the world’s biggest tech IPO of the year, courtesy of Talabat — continuing this year, with HSBC’s global head of equity capital markets, Edward Sankey, saying he expects to see more IPOs out of the region this year than last year, despite most global IPOs likely being pushed to the back end of the year. This is also despite global activity already slowing since the start of the year, and expectations for other markets tempering from earlier projections.

More capital inflows are expected: “The UAE is still relatively under-reflected among global investors,” Gupte said. “Over the next five years, more investments will come in,” he noted, adding that the momentum the market has seen since last month “has some legs and is likely to stay for a while.”

Does this mean the region is insulated against all external shocks? Not necessarily. While most of the speakers at the summit yesterday cited volatility in oil prices and the USD as potential risks on the region, the overwhelming consensus is — with the caveat being that the region itself is not homogenous, with some being more resilient than others: Strong fundamentals and diversification away from oil, as well as the region’s relative neutrality amid geopolitical and trade tensions, will allow it to sustain its well-earned title as a magnet for global wealth, even — or especially — as trade wars and global headwinds continue.

Promax United launches joint digital investment platform and stablecoin with Palm Global

Promax United launches a digital investment platform: Abu Dhabi’s Promax United and AI-focused financial services firm Palm Global Technologies launched Palm Promax Investments, a joint venture aimed at building a fixed-income investment platform and a globally recognized stablecoin, according to a press release. Promax holds a 60% stake in the JV, while Palm Global holds a 30% stake.

The initiative is backed by over USD 1.5 tn in AA-and-AAA-rated real-world assets, secured through sovereign partnerships across 15 countries. These include assets based in both the UAE and the US.

Palm Promax is starting with USD 350 bn in US gold-based assets to securitize its stablecoin and fixed-income products. The stablecoin is targeted at developing economies, with 15 African nations already on board, Palm Global Chairman Peter Knez said. The platform will also tokenize carbon credits, biodiversity reserves, AgTech, and ecosystem services.

Looking forward: The company plans to grow this asset base even further, with plans to surpass the USD 1.5 tn mark in the future, Promax United’s president Louai Mohamed Ali said. Sovereign wealth funds and central banks—including the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)—are already engaged, Knez said.

This comes amid broader national push into stablecoins:

IHC, ADQ, and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) are reportedly planning a new new AED-backed stablecoin ;
MGX, Abu Dhabi’s AI-focused fund, invested USD 2 bn via stablecoin in Binance;
The CBUAE recently greenlit AE Coin, the UAE’s first AED-pegged stablecoin;
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) has also rolled out a regulatory framework for stablecoins.

Innovation and product thinking for bankers: Mashreq’s approach to capturing internal value

Banking has traditionally been held back by legacy systems and a conservative mindset, limiting agility and innovation. But Mashreq is breaking that mold—forming ecosystem partnerships, co-creating with customers and FinTechs, and combining advanced technology with deep = operational expertise to shape the future of banking.

One of the most exciting aspects of Mashreq’s internal innovation is its use of Generative AI (Gen AI). By integrating Gen AI into Corporate onboarding, Mashreq is cutting down time and complexity in client interactions. When documents are uploaded, the AI engine extracts data and auto-fills fields—reducing manual input by up to 70%. We've also introduced electronic facial recognition (EFR) for secure digital consent, a first in the region for Large Corporates. This replaces physical signatures for UAE residents, making the process faster, safer, and convenient.

Another exciting development is our collaborative API solution for the Real Estate Industry. At Mashreq, we identified a major challenge in the Escrow space—manual, time-consuming processes that cause delays and reconciliation issues. To solve this, we partnered with developers and regulators to build an API that integrates directly with Real Estate Developers and the Land Department. It automates the escrow process, reduces manual work, provides real-time updates for regulators, and simplifies reporting. This has created a faster, more transparent, and efficient system for everyone involved.

For our internal teams, we launched PULSE—an AI-powered platform designed to digitize and streamline the daily work of Corporate RMs. Using AI and GenAI, PULSE handles tasks like scheduling, call reports, sales tracking, and compliance while offering a complete client view and real-time insights. PULSE has embedded Advanced Analytics features using Big Data, AI and ML models, to help RMs deepen client relationships and focus on driving revenues and improving customer experience.

One of Mashreq’s most recent innovations is NeoVentures, a dedicated corporate venture capital arm with a dual mandate. NeoVentures commercializes in-house built digital assets through venture building and innovates in the ecosystem through partnerships by investing in FinTechs.

In venture-building, with a “build-to-sell” mindset, the bank is reshaping how we deliver services. NeoVentures commercializes products either directly through ventures or via partnerships with FinTechs. We have partnered with multiple FinTechs to offer products like an AI-powered asset sell-down platform and a digital agency solution. We are also going to the market with ventures like PULSE.

In venture investments, we are continuously growing our FinTech investment portfolio through new and follow-on investments across retail and wholesale banking. These partnerships and investments reflect our deep commitment to fintech-led innovation and our role as a digital transformation leader.

Banks are often seen as slow to innovate—but they don’t have to be. Mashreq proves that with the right mindset, internal expertise, and strong ecosystem partnerships, a bank can lead the charge in innovation and stay ahead of evolving customer needs.

Amith Rajan, Head, Wholesale Digital Banking, Mashreq & CEO, NeoVentures

IHC, Burjeel, Adnoc Distribution, and HSBC post 1Q earnings

IHC-

Abu Dhabi’s International Holding Company saw its net income halve to AED 4.1 bn in 1Q 2025 as it continued to expand its portfolio, according to an earnings release (pdf) and management report (pdf). Meanwhile, its revenues rose 41% to AED 27.2 bn, while total assets increased 3.7% to AED 416.6 bn.

(Tap or click the headline above to read this story with all of the links to our background as well as external sources.)

The company’s subsidiaries, Multiply Group, Alpha Dhabi, PureHealth, and Modon, have all pursued acquisitions during the previous quarter. Multiply Group acquired a majority stake in Spanish retail group Tendam, while Alpha Dhabi increased its stake in National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels to 73.7%, and PureHealth acquired a 60% stake in Hellenic Healthcare Group for USD 2.3 bn. Modon also acquired London’s Arena Events Group from Abu-Dhabi based conglomerate IHC and Saudi Arabia’s Tasheel Holding Group.

ADNOC DISTRIBUTION-

Adnoc’s retail arm Adnoc Distribution recorded a 16.2% y-o-y increase in net income attributable to shareholders to AED 638.7 mn, driven by lower finance costs and strong underlying business activity, according to its financials (pdf) and management report (pdf). Meanwhile, the firm saw a 3.2% y-o-y drop in revenues to AED 8.5 bn, weighed down by lower crude pump prices.

1Q saw a record high for fuel volumes driven by sales in the UAE and KSA, with a 4.2% y-o-y uptick in retail fuel volumes bringing the total volume sold to 2.9 bn litres, despite a 3.3% downturn in terms of commercial volumes, it said in a separate earnings release (pdf). Rising mobility, economic activity, and network expansion boosted performance, as the company added 20 stations in the quarter, including contracted sites, bringing its global footprint to 915 outlets.

Dividends: Adnoc Distribution reaffirmed its five-year dividend policy (2024-2028), pledging around AED 2.6 bn annually or at least 75% of net income — whichever is higher. At its current share price of AED 3.4, the 2025 dividend implies a 6.1% yield.

Looking ahead, the company plans to open 40-50 new stations this year, including 30-40 in Saudi Arabia, and install 100 EV charging points. It also aims to double its F&B footprint in the UAE by year-end, as part of a strategy to boost EBITDA through non-fuel expansion, operational efficiency, and digital upgrades through 2028.

BURJEEL HOLDINGS-

Burjeel Holdings saw its net income drop 62.4% y-o-y to AED 39.2 mn in 1Q 2025, according to its financials (pdf) and a separate press release (pdf). A downturn in patient volumes during the Ramadan period and lower EBITDA on the back of higher overhead expenses and staffing costs were behind the downturn. Revenues still rose 5.7% y-o-y to AED 1.3 bn, driven by a 5.3% uptick in patient footfall and a 24.5% y-o-y jump in revenues from its medical oncology segment.

Going forward: The company is realigning staffing levels, tightening high-cost procurement spending, and looking to expand further into high-potential markets like fertility and oncology, CEO John Sunil said.

HSBC MIDDLE EAST-

UAE-based HSBC Bank Middle East’s pre-tax income held steady at USD 283 mn in 1Q 2025, however it did see a 14.6% uptick from the previous quarter, according to the group’s earnings release (pdf). Revenues came in at USD 619 mn during 1Q.

The global bank’s pre-tax net income came in at USD 9.5 bn during the quarter, down 25% y-o-y, as it continues its restructuring plan to split its operations into four divisions, creating separate “Eastern markets” and “Western markets.” The bank will “retain more focused M&A and equity capital markets capabilities in Asia and the Middle East,” as it winds down those activities in the US, Europe, and UK and looks to cut costs, it said in its earnings release. The bank also announced a USD 3 bn share buyback program.

Fasanara Capital taps ex Shuaa Capital CEO Fawad Tariq-Khan as managing director

UK-based tech driven asset management firm FasanaraCapital has appointed Fawad Tariq Khan (Linkedin) as managing director in the Middle East, to be based in Abu Dhabi, according to a press release. Khan previously served as group CEO of Shuaa Capital and as an assistant director with Deloitte Corporate Finance. He is also the co-founder of Agentplex, an AI technology platform.

UAE readjusting AI dreams in face of global competition

The UAE’s lofty ambitions of developing competitive AI models are facing challenges, despite initial excitement about homegrown AI models like Technology Innovation Institute ’s (TII) Falcon and G42’s Jais, Bloomberg reports.

Tough to compete in a two-horse race: Despite being the Emirates’ most competitive AI model, Falcon has struggled to gain traction against competition from global heavyweight open-source models like the US’ Meta Platforms and China’s Deepseek. European AI ventures have also struggled to keep up with US firms that are throwing bns in funding into developing models and Chinese players offering low-cost alternatives.

Shifting focus: G42 is now prioritizing its data center business and investing in AI firms like OpenAI and xAI. Some Emirati firms are now using existing models to provide customized AI solutions and tools for specific business use cases.

What’s the appeal? Developing “sovereign models” allows governments to reduce reliance on foreign technology and to have more control over their AI systems, Bloomberg added, citing AI professor at Oxford University Michael Bronstein. It also allows them to better represent their language and culture — with companies like Tarjama and G42 also developing Arabic models.

DFM, Taiwan Stock Exchange eye stock market cooperation

CAPITAL MARKETS-

DFM inks MoU with Taiwan Stock Exchange for cross-border cooperation: The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) signed an MoU with the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE) to deepen cross-border financial cooperation, promote dual listings, and boost investor access between the Middle East and Asia, according to a Dubai Media Office statement. The agreement outlines joint efforts to list financial products — including exchange-traded funds (ETFs) — and regular knowledge-sharing and investor outreach initiatives.

Why this matters: The partnership supports DFM’s strategy to enhance connectivity with Asian capital markets and expand its global investor base.

M&A-

#1- Homegrown cybersecurity firm CPX Holding — acquired by G42 in 2024 — has acquired VC-backed cyber AI company spiderSilk, it said in a statement. The move merges CPX’s end-to-end threat detection and remediation capabilities with spiderSilk’s AI-led technologies to offer cyberthreat solutions. spiderSilk is also known for its exposure management platform Resonance.

What’s next? The move paves the way for expansion into key global markets including North America, Saudi Arabia, and the wider GCC, offering cybersecurity solutions for both public and private sector clients, the statement said. spiderSilk’s research and development center will continue working on AI-driven solutions.

Hot on the heels of another acquisition: Last week, CPX inked an agreement to acquire Singapore-based smart city tech firm TSI Tech, in a move that will integrate TSI’s smart city expertise with CPX’s cyber capabilities, providing security solutions for government entities and corporate clients across MENA and Asia.

#2- Abu Dhabi-listed food and beverage firm Agthia has finalized its acquisition of 100% of Riviere Mineral Water, a UAE-based water services firm, according to a press release (pdf).

What does Agthia get? Riviere’s operational assets include three bottling plants across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, 160 delivery trucks, and 780 employees. Agthia says the integration will enhance manufacturing capacity, distribution efficiency, and customer service. The acquisition will triple Agthia’s household customer base and is projected to boost revenues from its water and food segment by 6.5% and contribute immediately to earnings.

BUSINESS-

#1- UAE and Egypt ink MoU to curb monopolies: The Economy Ministry has inked a four-year MoU with the Egyptian Competition Authority to strengthen bilateral cooperation in enforcing competition laws and promote a fair business environment, according to a ministry statement. The MoU will see the two sides participate in knowledge exchange, organize joint training programs and workshops.

#2- Manulife enters DIFC to target regional high-net-worth clients: Canadian insurer Manulife has opened an office in the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC), becoming the first international high-net-worth insurer in the freezone with a Category 4 license, according to a DIFC statement.

The offering: The license enables Manulife to advise on and arrange life ins. contracts for high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients in the region, covering areas such as legacy planning, wealth protection, and risk mitigation.

AVIATION-

#1- dnata to deploy 800 ground support units globally in 2025: Homegrown aviation service provider dnata will invest USD 110 mn to introduce 800 new ground support equipment units across 10 countries in 2025, according to the Dubai Media Office. The largest volumes will be allocated to the UAE, Brazil, Italy, the US, and Singapore.

The details: The equipment will be supplied under multiyear global contracts that were finalized in 2024 with key manufacturers. The agreements aim to ensure consistent access to upgraded, lower-emission equipment to meet dnata’s expansion and sustainability objectives. dnata also recently earmarked another USD 110 mn for infrastructure projects in Dubai, Iraq, and the Netherlands.

#2-Emirates is launching daily non-stop flights between Dubai and Hangzhou starting from 30 July, according to a press release. The airline already travels to Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. The new route will offer almost 2.5k weekly seats, and Emirates SkyCargo will also use the route.

Hangzhou is emerging as a hub for e-commerce and advanced manufacturing, and Chinese-commerce giant Alibaba is headquartered there, the statement said.

REMEMBER- Emirates also said it will kick off flights to Shenzhen in mid-2025, as part of plans to increase its air traffic to China by 40% on the back of rising demand.

LOGISTICS-

#1- AD Ports, Burjeel eye JV for healthcare deliveries across Africa: Abu Dhabi Ports Group inked an MoU with leading regional healthcare services provider Burjeel Holdings to explore the formation of a new joint venture (JV) for the delivery of medical supplies, equipment, and pharma goods across Africa, according to a statement. AD Ports will work to facilitate inland transport as well as provide specialized warehousing and distribution centers as part of the JV, while the two sides will explore co-investing in other wider projects which fall within the scope of their “shared objectives,” the statement adds, without disclosing any further details.

REMEMBER- AD Ports retains an extensive operational portfolio across Africa, including in Egypt’s Port Said and Safaga Terminal, Angola’s Lunada Terminal, Congo-Brazzaville, and Tanzania.

#2- FedEx expands UAE retail access via Emirates Post branches: FedEx has opened 68 authorized shipping centers at Emirates Post locations across the UAE, allowing walk-in customers to access international shipping services without a FedEx account, according to a press release. The rollout is part of FedEx’s push to expand its retail footprint and meet growing demand for express logistics from business and consumers as the UAE’s population exceeds 11 mn.

CRYPTO-

Digital asset brokerage BurjX gets IPA approval for ADGM: UAE-based digital asset brokerage BurjX has received in-principle approval from ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority to operate as a fully regulated crypto trading and custody platform, the company said in a statement. The firm is now working toward securing full financial services permission and is preparing to launch later this year.

About BurjX: BurjX aims to bring institutional-grade crypto infrastructure to the MENA region, which accounted for USD 338.7 bn in crypto transactions in 2024. The upcoming platform will provide retail, professional, and institutional investors with services including deep liquidity, fiat on-ramps and off-ramps, and Fireblocks-powered digital asset custody with integrated ins.

TELECOMS-

e& will serve as Jamaican-based Caribbean mobile phone network Digicel Group’s partner for inbound and outbound international traffic across 24 markets in the Americas, e& said in a LinkedIn post. The partnership aims to streamline operations and improve service quality, state news agency Wam reports. This follows e&’s recent entry into the Americas.

US trade deficit hits record high as companies scramble to beat Trump’s new tariffs

The US trade deficit widened to an all-time high in March 2025, expanding 14% m-o-m to USD 140.5 bn as businesses rushed to bring in goods before the tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump came into effect, according to latest Commerce Department data. The deficit has widened 92.6% year-to-date. Imports from a number of nations soared to record levels, while imports from China hit a five-year low amid a sharp drop in shipping volumes.

Imports surge past forecasts: The deficit was USD 3.5 bn wider than the USD 137 bn forecast by economists polled by Reuters. The overall goods trade deficit widened 11.2% m-o-m to a record USD 163.5 bn during the month, while imports rose 4.4% m-o-m to a high of USD 419.0 bn.

Why the surge? “Businesses are clearly scrambling as they try to find a way through this time of unprecedented change,” FWDBONDS Chief Economist Christopher Rupkey told the newswire. “But the worst is undoubtedly yet to come because the import tariff collections did not start to roll in earnest until after the White House ‘Liberation Day’ announcement on 2 April.”

Rush to import before tariffs bite: Imports from Mexico, the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, India, and Vietnam hit record highs as buyers scrambled to get ahead of Trump’s trade measures. ”Imports from the EU were substantial in March, particularly from Ireland, and may decline in April,” Citigroup economist Veronica Clark said. “But if anything, imports from some Asian countries may rise further as larger 40%-50% tariffs were delayed until July.”

What about exports? Exports rose a mere 0.2% m-o-m to a record USD 278.5 bn in March. Goods exports climbed 0.7% to USD 183.2 bn — their highest level since July 2022 — driven by a USD 2.2 bn increase in industrial supplies and materials. Auto and auto parts exports also added USD 1.2 bn, but that was offset by a USD 1.5 bn drop in capital goods.

The news received attention from: Reuters | Bloomberg | AP

MARKETS THIS MORNING-

Asian markets are in the green this morning. The Shanghai Composite is up 0.6%, the Hang Seng is looking at gains of 1.6%, and Korea’s Kospi is up 0.3%. Meanwhile, Japan’s Nikkei is down 0.1%.

ADX	9,623	+0.6% (YTD: +2.2%)
DFM	5,353	+0.2% (YTD: +3.7%)
Nasdaq Dubai UAE20	4,455	+1.3% (YTD: +7.0%)
USD : AED CBUAE	Buy 3.67	Sell 3.67
EIBOR	4.1% o/n	4.1% 1 yr
TASI	11,434	+0.1% (YTD: -5.1%)
EGX30	32,286	+0.2% (YTD: +8.5%)
S&P 500	5,604	-0.8% (YTD: -4.0%)
FTSE 100	8,597	+0.0% (YTD: +5.2%)
Euro Stoxx 50	5,263	-0.4% (YTD: +7.6%)
Brent crude	USD 62.26	+3.4%
Natural gas (Nymex)	USD 3.45	-2.9%
Gold	USD 3,414.97	+2.4%
BTC	USD 94,636	-0.3 (YTD: +1.3%)
Chimera JP Morgan UAE Bond UCITS ETF	USD 3.65	0.0 (YTD: +2.4%)
S&P MENA Bond & Sukuk	143.7	0.0% (YTD: +2.7%)
VIX (Volatility Index)	24.76	+4.7% (YTD: +42.7%)

THE CLOSING BELL-

The ADX rose 0.6% yesterday on turnover of AED 1.6 bn. The index is up 2.2% YTD.

In the green: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (+4.1%), Emirates Driving Company (+3.9%) and Abu Dhabi National Ins. (+3.6%).

In the red: Gulf Cement Co. (-8.0%), Multiply Group (-3.1%) and National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (-2.5%).

Over on the DFM, the index rose 0.2% on turnover of AED 560 mn. Meanwhile, Nasdaq Dubai was up 1.3%.

CALENDAR

MAY

25 April-11 May (Friday-Sunday): Dubai Esports and Games Festival, Dubai World Trade Center.

6-7 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): Ajman Sustainable Development International Forum, Ajman X Centre.

6-7 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): The Capital Market Summit, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

6-7 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

6-8 May (Tuesday-Thursday): Airport Show, Dubai World Trade Centre.

6-8 May (Tuesday-Thursday): Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, Dubai World Trade Center.

6-8 May (Tuesday-Thursday): GISEC, Dubai World Trade Center.

9-10 May (Friday-Saturday): BNI UAE EXPO 2025, at the JAFZA One Convention Centre, Dubai.

9-11 May (Friday-Sunday): The Emirates Critical Care Conference, Intercontinental Festival City Hotel, Dubai.

12 May (Monday): EU regulators to make a decision on Adnoc’s Covestro takeover.

12-13 May (Monday-Tuesday): Dubai FinTech Summit, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

13-16 May (Tuesday-Friday): International Union for Health Promotion and Education Conference, Abu Dhabi.

13-14 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): The Annual HR Tech MENA, Dubai.

13-14 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): Global Ports Forum, Dubai.

13–14 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): Low Carbon Fuels MENA Summit, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, Dubai.

13-15 May (Tuesday-Thursday): Cabsat Middle East and Satellite Middle East, Dubai World Trade Center.

13-15 May (Tuesday-Thursday): Integrate Middle East, Dubai World Trade Center.

13-20 May (Tuesday-Tuesday): Dubai Holding REIT subscription period.

15 May (Thursday-Sunday): The Economy Middle East Summit, ADGM, Abu Dhabi.

15 May (Thursday): Dewa tender for pumping stations bids deadline.

15-18 May (Thursday-Sunday): The GLA Global Logistics Conference, Grand Hyatt Dubai.

19-20 May (Monday-Tuesday): Arqaam Capital MENA Investor Conference 2025, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi.

19-22 May (Monday-Thursday): Make it in the Emirates, Adnec, Abu Dhabi.

20 May (Tuesday): Dubai Business Forum, Hamburg, Germany.

20-21 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): The International Real Estate Investment Summit (IREIS 2025), Al Hamra International Exhibition and Conference Centre in Ras Al Khaimah.

20-22 May (Tuesday-Thursday): Seamless Middle East, Dubai World Trade Center.

21 May (Wednesday): The AWS Summit, the Dubai World Trade Center.

21 May (Wednesday): Dubai Holding REIT final offer price and allocation of units announcement.

21-22 May (Wednesday-Tuesday): The CryptoExpo Dubai, the Dubai World Trade Center.

23-25 May (Friday-Sunday): EuroLeague Final Four, Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi.

23 April (Wednesday): The HIMSS Executive Summit 2025, Jumeirah Emirates Towers.

26-28 May (Monday-Wednesday): Arab Media Summit, World Trade Center, Dubai.

28 May (Wednesday): The Dubai Residential REIT will ring the bell.

27-29 May (Tuesday-Thursday): INDEX, Workspace, and The Hotel Show, Dubai World Trade Center.

28-31 May: The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, Adnec Center Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.

30 May (Friday): Arafat Day.

31 May-2 June (Saturday-Monday): Eid Al Adha.

JUNE

17-18 June (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

17-18 June (Tuesday-Wednesday): Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit, Abu Dhabi Energy Centre.

24-25 June (Tuesday-Wednesday): Middle East Rail, Dubai World Trade Center.

27 June (Friday): Islamic New Year.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2H 2025:

Closing of XRG's acquisition of Covestro

JULY

6-7 July (Sunday-Monday): BRICS Summit, Rio de Janeiro.

29-30 July (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

SEPTEMBER

8-10 September (Monday-Wednesday): DigiHealth exhibition, World Trade Center, Dubai.

8-19 September (Monday-Wednesday): WHX-Tech Expo, Dubai World Trade Centre.

12-14 September (Friday-Sunday): The International Real Estate and Investment Show, Abu Dhabi.

16-17 September (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

24-25 September (Wednesday-Thursday): Mohammed Bin Rashid Leadership Forum, Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development, Dubai.

OCTOBER

1-2 October (Thursday-Friday):World Green Economy Summit (WGES), Dubai World Trade Centre.

30 September - 2 October (Tuesday-Thursday): The Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX), Dubai World Trade Centre.

3-16 October (Friday-Thursday): Dubai Home Festival.

7-9 October (Tuesday-Thursday): The International Symposium on the System of Radiological Protection, the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.

9-15 October (Thursday-Wednesday): IUCN World Conservation Congress, Abu Dhabi.

27-29 October (Monday-Wednesday): Future Hospitality Summit, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

27-29 October (Monday-Wednesday): Asia Pacific Cities Summit, Dubai Exhibition Center.

28-29 October (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

NOVEMBER

15-17 November (Saturday-Monday): Myplant & Garden Middle East Green Expo, Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City.

17-21 November (Monday-Friday): Dubai Airshow 2025, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai.

18-19 November (Tuesday-Wednesday): Dubai Future Forum, Museum of the Future, Dubai.

DECEMBER

1-3 December (Monday-Wednesday): Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day).

1-5 December (Monday-Friday): The World Congress of Neurosurgery, Dubai World Trade Center.

8-9 December (Monday-Tuesday): BTC Mena Conference, Adnec, Abu Dhabi.

8-10 December (Monday-Wednesday): BRIDGE media summit, Abu Dhabi.

9-10 December (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2025:

The Middle East Electric Vehicle Show, Expo Center Sharjah.
e& will complete Adnoc’s private 5G network.
Executive Committee Meeting (EXCOM 2025) conference of the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organisation (WeGO)
The International Civil Aviation Organization’s Global Implementation Support Symposium, Abu Dhabi.
Universal Postal Congress 2025, Dubai.

Signposted to happen sometime in the fall of 2025:

2025 Games of the Future, Dubai.
ICOM General Conference 2025, Dubai

Signposted to happen sometime in 2026:

9-11 January (Friday-Sunday): 1 Bn Followers Summit’s fourth edition, UAE
3-5 February (Tuesday-Thursday): The World Governments Summit.
12-15 February (Thursday-Sunday): The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence Global Conference, Abu Dhabi.
11-13 May (Monday-Wednesday): AI Everything Global, Adnec Center.
The UAE to host the Arab Competition Forum
Dubai to host the Arab Actuarial Conference
United Nations Water Conference 2026, UAE

Signposted to happen sometime in October 2026:

Abu Dhabi Space Week, Abu Dhabi.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2027:

Abu Dhabi’s solar and battery energy facility, combining 5.2 GW of solar capacity and 19 GWh of battery storage, is set for commissioning.

Signposted to happen sometime between 2027 and 2029:

The commissioning of the seventh phase of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.

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